GUIDE FOR SECOND PHOTOGRAPHERS
Hello! I am so excited to have you work alongside me.
Before the day please read through this guide so that you are well prepared in what to expect when working with me.
For background, my photography style is natural and romantic with an editorial touch. I love natural/documentary photography as I believe a wedding day is best captured without too much posing, and reflects the couple as their most authentic selves.
That being said, where I need to I do use prompts if people are a little nervous or need some direction. I will recommend a better background, positioning or lighting scenario where possible/necessary and also try to tidy any clutter and move furniture for a clearer frame.
I am so inspired by fashion photography and more editorial compositions and am always aiming to include this in my work. I love movement and 'untraditional' frames to add another dimension to my style.
I prefer natural and ambient lighting where possible, saving flash photography for when it is necessary or to create more of a high fashion feel.
I shoot on 2x Nikon Z6ii's and always bring 24, 35, 50, 85mm lenses plus an on camera flash.
EQUIPMENT SET UP & CAMERA SETTINGS
Below is generally how I shoot. Please use this as a guideline for how you will capture the day as it will make editing much easier for me and help me to deliver a consistent gallery:
Manual or Aperture Priority
RAW files, backed up to both memory cards
Memory cards formatted in camera
Cameras synced to the correct time
Silent shutter where lighting allows (no banding)
Centre weighted framing
Aperture
1.8 to 2.8 for people
At least 3.5 for the party
Whatever is the most suitable aperture to capture movement and light trails
ISO
I generally won't go above 3200 (on mirrorless) if I can help it however I know this is not always possible
Shutter Speed
1/250 minimum to avoid camera shake
1/125 or slower to capture movement
White Balance
Kelvin (4500 to 5500)
Exposure
In most circumstances I expose for the highlights
Flash
Direct flash only - If I am using flash please do the same
KEY SHOTS
As the second photographer, you will be covering the Groom's morning preparations, coverage from the back of the ceremony, and general candids of people throughout the day. I have listed below the shots I would like you to capture.
Groom Prep
Details of the location
Groom's details, such as cologne, cufflinks, rings, sentimental items
Groom putting these items on, spraying cologne etc.
Buttonholes
Groom and Groomsmen putting on buttonholes
Gift giving
General candids of groomsmen getting ready
Please prepare the groom by letting him know what you will be capturing. You may need to ask him to hold back on certain things until you are ready to photograph. i.e. if they are giving gifts to their groomsmen etc.
Ceremony
Empty ceremony room and details
General candids of the Bride and Groom
Wide shot of entire ceremony
Ring exchange
First kiss - do not worry if I am in your frame!
Candids of guests during the signing of the register
Please stay at the back during the main part of the ceremony. If you have access to the sides, feel free to get alternate angles here.
Rest of the day
Your main focus of the day will be to capture the guests enjoying themselves. If time allows you will join me on the couple portrait session but please understand this is not always possible.
Candids
Please prioritise guests interacting with each other - smiling, laughing, and embracing.
Please note, if anyone at the wedding expresses that they feel uncomfortable/no longer want photos taken, including the groom or groomsmen, then please do heed what they say. You are not responsible for not taking photos in this situation.
