Rick d.

I've photographed hundreds of weddings and only used a bracket a few times. No need as far as I'm concerned. Then again, I often bounce my flash off the ceiling or wall.

I would borrow or rent a second camera and lens. You don't want your camera to go bad, and have to use your iPhone.

dpullum Loc: Tampa Florida

Yep, Rick, right on. Simplicity and redundancy, and shoot shoot shoot, digital film is cheap and as are additional batteries.

Take your charger with you. When driving from the wedding to the reception recharge.

Relax and make it fun for you.

debbiesweds

Hi! I am actually in the process of being incorporated and getting my website and portfolio together as wedding photographer. I am not the best photographer (yet) but I am definitely tenacious and I give it my all. I have done over 30+ weddings for free and only this year began to charge. I had done many family ones for free and flattered and excited to do them (never felt it was anything but good and excited and ALWAYS more nervous than the bride and groom - but did it). I was asked then by three different people who saw my photos (who I did NOT know) to do their weddings - now I became nervous - like you - OMG - but the first time I did not return the girls call because I was afraid and never did call her, but this past year I decided to do it because that is where my passion is. I have done four for strangers! I realized I had to get more experience and more importantly I know that I have a bridal show in January and to sell myself I have to believe in myself and do well. So every day for the past year (and I mean pretty much every day) I take photography class. I am the teacher and the student- home schooling I call it. I am far from knowing what I am doing and the more I learn the more I know I need to learn. My advice is definitely do the wedding - you have warned her and told her you can only do your best - there is nothing more you can do - here is a perfect opportunity for your experience and portfolio. With digitals you know you can check to be sure you have some good shots and you know you will get them, so believe in yourself, this is a kickstart to do it if you want. My favorite new saying...Make a wish and then make it come true! You have till January - get busy - you can do it!! Sorry this is so long winded - but I saw myself in you! I did four weddings in the past three months and I have three between now and October. My Dad pointed out - in all the weddings I've done neither I nor they have been disappointed in the pics - so I am just going to keep getting better and you will too! I have gotten rave reviews from my brides and call myself an amateur professional or professional amateur but either way, I make sure before I leave that wedding - they have tons of great shots and then I kill my babies as they call it (get rid of any that would be a poor reflection on me - and that part is not easy!) Okay now I am rambling - sorrrrry!

Rick d.

Debbie, "part-time professional" or "semi-Professional" sounds a little better to me.

debbiesweds

you are correct (i dont use this with customers) but yeah, need to do that- need to put the more positive spin on it and learn to build my confidence instead of defeat it! Thanks for the advice!

areej Loc: Atlanta,Ga

Thank you so much that is so encouraging but I have no idea about prices and how much to charge can you tell me what do you do and how much should I ask?

areej Loc: Atlanta,Ga

Thanks , I will