The Scenario
Wedding photography is a crucial part of any wedding day, as it captures the memories and emotions that will last a lifetime. These expert wedding photography tips will help you capture the beauty and joy of the day. From lighting to composition, we’ve got you covered.
Assess the Light
When it comes to capturing emotion, light is the first element to consider. Understanding light is crucial to effectively create a certain mood or feeling. Take some time to analyze various images. Consider how they make you feel. If the exact same image was taken in different light, how would that affect the emotional component?
Pay Attention to Composition and Framing
Composition and framing are key elements in capturing emotion in wedding photography. Consider the rule of thirds, which involves dividing the frame into thirds both horizontally and vertically, and placing the subject at the intersection points. This creates a more visually appealing and balanced image. Also, pay attention to the background and foreground, making sure they complement the subject and add to the overall emotion of the photo. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture unique and memorable shots.
Be Present
Learn to anticipate moments and time your shots. This skill will definitely take time to develop, but it will significantly up-level your photography. Keep your head on a swivel and don’t forget about the “down time” or “transition” moments. Often times the most authentic emotions are captured when the clients don’t realize they’re being photographed.
Be Intentional
As you head into a wedding day, be strategic. You should have a good understanding of who your couple is and what is most important to them. From your initial consultation, to their engagement session, to their wedding questionnaire, you should be aware of their priorities and prepared to capture them accordingly. Choose 2-3 things to pay particular attention to. Does the bride have an especially close relationship with her father? Is there a particularly sentimental heirloom that is meaningful to the couple? Is there something unique about their love story that you can document in a purposeful and artistic way? Think of how your bride and groom would want to remember their wedding day. If you remain focused on that purpose and implement these expert wedding photography tips, your imagery will surely wow your clients.
The Details
Florals + styling by the amazingly talented Elena Shelton of Solstice Bloom