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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.

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