Expert: Elegant Images Weddings - 9/9/2010

Question
Hi, I am near the end of my college education and my career
choice is Wedding Photography - I am currently studying
photography for my A levels and this is the path i would
like to take when i complete the course. Unfortunately i
have no experience of Wedding Photography and was wondering
different ways to gain experience in Wedding Photography?

Thanks,
Ben  

Answer
Two primary paths are available to you.  You work for an established wedding photographer for a couple of years prior to moving out on your own.  An alternative would be to take supplemental courses with professionals that offer them then start with lower budget weddings.  Bambi Cantrell, Jerry Ghionis, Kevin Kubota, David Williams, and Yervant all offer seminars covering wedding photography.  Much can be learned by joining WPPI and attending their annual conventions.  A few courses in child psychology could be helpful, too!!!!  One of your best options might be to find a single female photographer in your area and offer your services (photography, that is).  You will always be better off if you are shooting with a female counterpart.  In the weddings we cover, my wife will account for 60% of the pictures that she takes.  She begins early in the day with the girls hair and makeup sessions.  You would not be particularly welcome there.  Not that modern girls are very shy, they just don't have the "girl" moments when a guy is present.  Learning a bit about album creation will help.  Does your academic program cover Photoshop?  Either way, a membership in N.A.P.P. would be invaluable.  Good luck, weddings are challenging but fun!  When you do start with wedding photography, don't diminish the value of engagement work.  When you spend time with your couple and become acquainted, the photography will benefit.  Your early connections with them translates into a comfort level on an otherwise stressful day.  Our services extend to Boudoir sessions, formal Bridal sessions, and just about any other session that the couple desires.  On the wedding day we are often more friends than a vendor.  No, we don't push that relationship, just utilize a comfort level that we have achieved in the creation of better wedding memories.