Lessons from a wedding

This past Sunday I had the opportunity to take my camera and new skills to practice at my friend's wedding. It was a lot of fun but also very exhausting. I have a new found appreciation for photographers who shoot weddings, parties and any other event.

Here is what I took from my experience:

1- wear comfortable shoes. I shot in high heels and by the end of the night I couldn't feel my feet or legs. I would have been able to move around more...but fashion does come at a high price. I understand why wedding photographers, especially women tend to dress down at these events.

2- this particular wedding didn't have a professional photographer...so people were snapping and getting in each other's way. There needs to be better coordination...

3- to shoot a Coptic wedding...I cannot get some great shots for the mere fact I'm a woman and I'm not allowed in the altar area, this means I need to team up with a male photographer.

4- it's important to know the ceremony before you go and the shots you want....I also find that taking candid shots are so much fun and turn out to be the best pictures. Giving a behind the scenes look for me is often what I like to display to people

5- it means a lot more when u have a personal relationship with the couple. I wanted them to look their best

6- know your lighting...so important to get to the church or venue early and figure things out. When things get started you don't have time to adjust.

7- have fun...

8- I dont think I could do this for a living just for the mere fact that it is stressful...lol I still need to find what I enjoy shooting...weddings are fun but it is a lot of work.

My pics should be up soon.