Wedding Photography Checklist
What New Wedding Photographer Need To Get First Big Job Started.
© Qing Gu
Mar 25, 2009
No need to worry, however, because this wedding photography checklist will help you get it all together.
Camera Body
Needless to say, all camera bodies are not created equal. A full range digital SLR should be at the top of your list for wedding photography equipment. They can be expensive, so if the cost in an issue you can rent one from a good camera shop. The idea to try before you buy is an excellent one as it allows you to become familiar with your investment before you make it.
For practical reasons, choose a camera which makes use of buttons and dials rather than menus. The time spent scrolling through menus to change settings will cause you to miss more than a few great shots!
Lenses
The ideal lens for wedding photography has a maximum aperture of f/2.8 or larger. This size of lens has the ability to gather all of the light available, which is particularly useful for photographing a wedding. With the option not to use a flash, you can preserve the romance of the ceremony. Can you imagine a candle-lit service photographed with a flash? Not only would the flash be incredibly intrusive, but it would completely change the way the ceremony appeared in the pictures from the way it was in real life.
Another benefit of having the option of not using the flash is that many churches prohibit the use of a flash. The harsh light can damage paintings and other fragile historical items, so it's just plain off limits in some settings. The f/2.8 lens or larger will allow you to capture those special moments without having them appear completely dark in the photo album!
For best results, put a wide angle zoom lens on your wedding photography checklist. You'll also need an image-stabilized telephoto zoom and a wide-to-telephoto zoom to complete a collection of must-have lenses for wedding photography.
Flashes
Studio monolight flashes need setup time and sturdy light stands, to say nothing of the cords and wires to get them up and ready. The ability to set these flashes up, however, afford more flexibility. You'll find these particularly handy when you're taking large group shots.
Speedlight TTLs, on the other hand, are attached to the camera and are immensely portable. You won't have to worry about tripping over wires or having a power source nearby, which is exceptionally important during outdoor events.
The best option is to have options, so add both types to your wedding photography checklist.
Supporting Gear
Depending on the equipment you choose, you'll need a host of other items. Flash umbrellas and stands, remote flash triggers, extension cords, a hand-held flash meter, extra battery packs, and all of the tripods and other staging equipment necessary will need to be on your list. The exact items you need will depend on the equipment you choose.
The final item that you'll need is a bag to carry it all. Once you get all of this wedding photography equipment together, you're well on your way to a successful shoot!
Serious about becoming a wedding photographer? Here is the non-hype wedding photography courses that can help you shot amazing wedding photos.
