As photo editors, we’ve worked with millions of wedding photos, and trust us - some mistakes keep popping up. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned photographer, here are some common slip-ups we’ve seen and, more importantly, how to avoid them to level up your game!
Missed Key Moments
The problem: Not enough shots during big moments - like the ring exchange or first look. If someone blinks or is out of focus, that moment has gone forever.
Pro tip: Use continuous shooting mode for key moments. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from and guarantee you capture the magic.Backlighting Gone Wrong
The problem: Shooting directly into the light can result in washed-out photos or lost details.
Pro tip: Learn to master backlighting! Proper exposure and tools like reflectors or fill flash can save your shot.Not Preparing for Lighting Changes
The problem: From bright outdoor ceremonies to dim receptions, wedding lighting is tricky. Poor preparation leads to overexposed or underexposed photos.
Pro tip: Scout the venue and bring gear for every lighting situation. Adjust settings on the fly to get perfect exposure every time.Dirty Lenses
The problem: Smudges and dust can mess with focus and sharpness, especially in low-light settings.
Pro tip: Keep your lenses clean! Check them regularly, especially before important shots.Overusing Wide-Angle Lenses
The problem: Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing the scene but can distort your subjects and lose intimacy.
Pro tip: Mix it up! Use medium and close-up shots to capture emotions and details, creating a balanced gallery.Lazy Composition
The problem: Shooting with tilted horizons or too much clutter, thinking you can fix it later with cropping, often results in lower-quality images.
Pro tip: Get it right in-camera! Align horizons, avoid clutter, and be mindful of the background. This saves you time in editing and results in cleaner shots.Poor Group Posing
The problem: Someone’s always looking away or blinking. Group photos can be a nightmare without proper coordination.
Pro tip: Take multiple shots and direct your groups with clear, concise instructions to keep things moving smoothly.Not Shooting in RAW
The problem: Shooting in JPEG to save space limits your ability to make serious edits without losing quality.
Pro tip: Always shoot in RAW for maximum editing flexibility. It makes post-processing so much easier!Ignoring Detail Shots
The problem: Missing those beautiful close-ups of rings, flowers, or décor means you’re missing a vital part of the wedding story.
Pro tip: Create a must-have checklist for the detail shots to ensure nothing is overlooked.Not Directing Couples
The problem: Many couples aren’t naturals in front of the camera and need direction to feel and look comfortable.
Pro tip: Guide them with prompts to help them relax, ensuring genuine emotion and beautiful moments.No Backup Plan
The problem: Horror stories of lost photos happen way too often. Equipment fails, memory cards corrupt, and files get deleted.
Pro tip: Have a solid backup strategy in place. Use dual memory card slots and back everything up as soon as possible.Inconsistent Shooting Style
The problem: Jumping from one subject to another without consistency creates a jarring viewing experience.
Pro tip: Plan ahead, keep calm, and stay focused on telling a cohesive story.
By avoiding these mistakes and improving your attention to detail, you’ll take your wedding photography to the next level. Happy shooting!
