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The best way for an amateur to take pictures at a wedding is to let a Pro do the job. That way, the amateur can let him/her fight "the crowds" - albeit, you've described a wedding of about 40 people. But, if you're committed, remember several things. Traditional photo packages require many, many pictures of the brides. It's her DAY! The Groom is important, but really wall paper. The Bride's parents are next in importance, especially her mother. If you can shoot during the ceremony - great. Use flash if you're able, ISO-800 of faster film if you're not. There may be some graininess, but you'll get the shots. Use ISO-100 or -200 [with flash] for shooting the reception. As someone else said, scout the church in advance. You may find a great place from which to shoot that will enable you to get the faces of the bride and groom. Avoid shooting from the congregation; you'll generally get backsides! be sure to try to get a formal setting for each table. In recent weddings I attended [or hosted as father of the groom,] there have been single use cameras on each table. If used correctly, this will afford the wedding couple many images not available from the "official" photographer. But, you should politely ask folks at each table to move arround to enable a well balanced photo. Bes sure to clear as much of the clutter on the table as possible. Be sure to get the cutting of the wedding cake, the "tossing of the bride on her 'throne,' " the first dance, bride and Dad's dance, Groom and Mom's dance, etc. If you're an invitee, you'll be at a disadvantage unless you give up the opportunity to join in the merriment [drinking, eating, etc.] For sure, you'll miss one or more of the great shots if you do. Of course, your escort will be happier if your close by. Take lots of film. Bring extra batteries [for flash AND camera.] Most Pros [shooting 35 mm] agree to shoot up to four rolls of film. I've shot none 36-exposure rolls at one wedding I did as the "Official" photographer; I shot three 36-exposure rolls when there was a Pro on site [and mine are the only pictures the wedding couple or their parents ever show to friends.] Try for good composition in all your shots but, remember, capturing that unbelievable moment is more important that "on the money composition." Remember, there's always cropping - by a decent commercial processor or Photoshop! Shooting a wedding is hard work; that's why Pros charge so much. But, since you have an auto-focus camera, set it to the "continuous focus mode" and Program Mode. You'll not have to worry about focus or exposure while you adjust composition, zoom, etc. You'll be fine. Have a ball.
July 13, 2004
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