Beginner Wedding Photographer Tips and Guide
This one is for my fellow legends- wedding photographer. Specifically, for the ones, that just starting a journey.
First of all- Way to go mate! Jumping in a new industry is always har, and I am so freaking proud of you!
I've been a photographer for 11 years now, and my journey hasn't always been easy.
Technology and social media were booming and evolving daily, while I tried to establish no niche and break through in wedding industry. So here's a little tips from me, that I wish someone gave me back in the day:
1. Make sure you've got what it takes.
Call me what you want, but I strongly believe that not everyone can become a wedding photographer. Sure, some people are able to snap a few pictures off their family and friends, but wedding photography is much more complex than that. And it may sound harsh, but it does require a certain level of talent. Of course, you probably won't be shooting like a pro right away, and it will take a trial and error to get to a certain level, But yeah, talent is important. Besides talent, you gotta be ready to work under a lot of pressure, and those long wedding days will physically exhaust you. So make sure you are ready for what's to come.
2. Make it Legal.
Okay, this one is important. While it may sound scary for someone who just starting, and you may think that it's super expensive, it's actually not.
I live in Australia, so here it's a fairly simple process. First, you gotta make sure you have your ABN.
Then, you gotta come up with business name and register it. For a "green" photographer, I would recommend to go with 1 year registration, just in case that your business will evolve, and you will decide to move forward with a different business name.
This is first two basic steps, and I would highly recommend starting with them.
3. Make sure your gear is good.
This one scared the crap out of me when I started.
All I've had was my old Nikon D3200 and no money in my bank account, but I've had a dream, talent and determination.
I've shot with 18-55 and 55-200 for a few first of my weddings. Then, I saved up a bit and bough a new 35 mm lens, which took my photography to a new level. Sure, my gear was still old, but with a new lens I made it work and shot so many beautiful weddings. Later on I upgraded all my gear, got doubles etc. But it took me several years to get there.
So don't be scared if you gear is dated. but you gotta make sure that it's in a perfect working condition ( you can't let your bride and groom down !!!!), and of course, your image quality must be equal to your pricing.
4. Create an AWESOME portfolio.
First few your weddings and events probably won't pay much, if, will pay at all, and that's okay! You need a good portfolio to attract a real clients that are willing to pay for your talent. So squeeze your butt cheeks, take a deep breath, and be ready to work for a small sums at first. And of course- WORK, WORK, WORK!
5. Establish Your prices.
Now when you have a bomb portfolio, it's time to set a rate for your talent.
Don't make the same mistake that I did, and don't settle for less than you worth.
Always remember, that your work should reflect your rate.
Don't try to undercut other photographers, in order to get a job. Sure, sometimes you need money, and that's understandable that you would want to beat someones quote, but it's just undermine your value. Do a research, find out how much photographers with a similar experience are charging in your area. Establish you travel fees and administrative fees that you will include in your packages.
6. Create website and social media.
If you are reading this, then it's working!
Social networking is a huge, HUUUUGE part of the business today. You can't survive on the " World of Mouth" strategy by itself. You need to display your awesome work somewhere. So my advise would be- use free tools and videos online to learn how to navigate social medias, SEO, web design etc. It's not gonna be an easy journey, but I'm sure that you will get there!
Consistency if the key!
7. Get in there!
Wedding photography industry is super competitive, but at the same time, it feels like a one big family.
There are so many vendors out there who just starting like you, and looking to collaborate. People are always happy to help each other, so don't be afraid to reach out!
That's it for today. It was 7 step guide for a beginner wedding photographer.
Sure, there are so many more to it, but it's a material for another post :)
Todaloo beautiful people!
xx
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