How to Become a Wedding Photographer

If you love taking pictures or are the person everyone hands the camera to at a wedding, consider a career as a wedding photographer. This is a fun and creative career that utilizes your photography skills. Since no two weddings are exactly alike, being a wedding photographer isn't just another day at the office. Say "I do" to an exciting career and become a wedding photographer.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Take courses at a photography school. Check for a photography school near you at the Photography Schools website (see Resources below). Become an expert. The wedding day is no place to learn your craft; your clients expect a professional photographer on their special day.
2. Develop your photographic vision. Take a fresh approach, and separate yourself from other wedding photographers. Stand out and people will remember—-and most likely utilize-—your services.
3. Participate in wedding photography competitions. This is a chance for peers to evaluate your work and gives you the chance to see the work of others in your field, which helps develop your craft.
4. Concentrate on the details and emotions on the wedding day. Wedding photographers don't just take pictures of the event—-they capture the feelings and special touches of each wedding.
5. Focus on the business side of wedding photography as well. It's not just about taking pictures and capturing moods. Enroll in business courses and seminars. Figure costs for each job, and make sure you turn profits.

Tips & Warnings

• Always have two of every piece of equipment, and carry spares to each wedding in case something breaks or fails.
• Prepare for pressure. A wedding day can be chaotic and disruptive, with everyone tense about things going right. You are in the middle of it all.
• You will give up a lot of your time when you become a wedding photographer. Since such events mostly take place on weekends, you rarely have a free weekend. And remember: there are no sick days in this business.

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