Ah, wedding photography! The beautiful chaos of capturing love, emotion, and fleeting moments, all while navigating everything from harsh Aussie sun to dimly lit receptions. If you’re diving into the world of wedding photography (or just keen to refine your craft), here are some top technical tips to ensure you walk away with stunning shots every time.
1. Master the Light (Because Perth Sun is No Joke!)
Perth is famous for its sunshine, but let’s be real—it can be brutal, especially for midday ceremonies. The key? Embrace golden hour whenever possible! If a couple wants an outdoor ceremony under the midday sun, scout for shaded areas or use a diffuser to soften harsh shadows. When shooting in bright conditions, underexpose slightly to preserve highlights—no one wants a washed-out wedding dress!
2. Fast Lenses are Your Best Mate
Wedding days move fast, and lighting changes constantly. A solid prime lens (like a 50mm f/1.4 or an 85mm f/1.8) will be your best friend, especially in dimly lit receptions or candle-lit ceremonies. Fast lenses help you keep that dreamy bokeh while ensuring your subjects stay sharp, even in tricky conditions.
3. Keep Your Gear Weather-Ready
Perth weddings range from beachfront ceremonies to vineyard receptions in the Swan Valley, and Mother Nature can be unpredictable. Always have a weather plan—lens hoods for sun glare, a clear umbrella for unexpected rain (which also makes for gorgeous romantic shots!), and silica gel packs to combat humidity.
4. Dual Card Slots = Peace of Mind
If your camera has dual slots, use them! Weddings are one-time-only events, and the last thing you want is a corrupted card. Shoot RAW to one card and JPEG to the other, or better yet, mirror the RAW files across both. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later.
5. Anticipate the Moments (Not Just the Poses)
Weddings are filled with blink-and-you-miss-it moments—the teary-eyed father seeing his daughter in her dress, the cheeky flower girl making a run for it, the best man’s speech that sends the room into fits of laughter. Always be ready! A second camera body with a longer focal length (like a 70-200mm) will help you capture those intimate moments without being intrusive.
6. Know Your Flash (But Use it Wisely)
Natural light is beautiful, but receptions often demand some extra lighting help. A good external flash with a bounce card or diffuser can work wonders. Avoid direct flash (unless you’re going for that dramatic editorial look) and learn how to bounce it off walls or ceilings for a softer effect.
7. Stay Calm & Blend In
Your energy on the day sets the tone. Be confident, move with purpose, and engage with your couples in a way that keeps them relaxed. The best wedding shots happen when people forget you’re even there!
Photography is an art and a science, and every wedding is a new adventure. Keep learning, keep shooting, and most importantly—have fun capturing love in all its forms!
