Thursday, June 04, 2009

How We Shoot Weddings

I'm frequently asked how we go about shooting weddings.

We try very hard to make wedding party and family photos fast and fun, but still interesting. I often use a ladder or go down to the ground to create compositions that are different from what we normally see at eye level. The ladder is kind of a pain to haul around but it's definitely worth it. The participants often pick up the unusual vantage points. It helps to get them to relax and give us genuine and spontaneous expressions.

Comment from the mother of a former bride:
"I admire the fact that you didn't need to 'dance backwards down the aisle' in front of my daughter and my husband to get great shots of them!"

(Click on each image to enlarge it)



We also push the envelope when it comes to access to the ceremony. Shooting from the back of the church just doesn't do it for me. I've actually turned down weddings where the church's photography policies were too restrictive. We're always respectful of church policies but want to give our brides and grooms the best documentation of their wedding ceremony. This image was shot while Communion was taking place. I was able to get right up on the altar and take several shots. None of the guests or clergy ever mentioned seeing me up there.



For prospective brides and grooms: when you interview wedding photographers, find out how they shoot. Ask what they wear when to the wedding; we wear all black because we'll blend in and it's classy. Ask them if they help you produce a timeline of the wedding day and then help you stay on schedule. Do they work off of a printed list of your requested wedding party and family photos or do they just "wing it?"

For more information,
  • www.stevesilvermanimaging.com

  • 4445 W. 77th St. #130
    Edina, MN 55435
    952-844-0119 c952-905-1197
    steve@stevesilvermanimaging.com

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