5 Mistakes To Avoid

Wedding photography is all about capturing the pure magic of a couple's special day. However, even seasoned professionals can sometimes stumble. Below, we’ve detailed 5 common mistakes and practical tips to artfully avoid them.

1. Lack of Preparation

Merely walking into a wedding venue isn't enough. Spend an afternoon mapping out the best spots for key shots, like the grand staircase for the bridal entrance or a quiet garden nook for first looks. Collaborate with the couple weeks prior to build a shot list, including their unique requests, perhaps capturing grandma's famous dance moves or the groom's secret handshake with his brother.

2. Poor Communication

This isn’t just about listening; it's about engaging. Host a pre-wedding meeting to understand their story and what they value most. During the wedding, maintain a balance between invisibility and approachability, ensuring guests feel comfortable in front of the camera. Confirm key moments with the couple beforehand, like a surprise serenade, so you’re poised to capture it.

3. Overlooking Lighting Conditions

A midday sun can cast harsh shadows, just as a romantic evening setting might lack adequate light. Master low light with the right camera settings and learn the moods of different times — like the gentle golden hour for soft romance, and the enigmatic blue hour for the party’s electric pulse.

4. Neglecting Backup Plans

Have a 'Plan B' for every piece of gear and for the whims of nature. Carry extra batteries, memory cards, and a second camera. For outdoor events, a set of umbrellas and clear tarpaulins can be lifesavers. Also, create a network with fellow photographers who can step in if an emergency pulls you away.

5. Lack of Editing Skills

In editing, a photo’s soul is refined. Develop strong editing skills, like fine-tuning contrast, balancing colors, and adding that personal touch that makes each album a storytelling masterpiece. Plus, don’t forget to maintain a consistent style. This will allow you to create a remarkable wedding album that truly reflects the couple's special day.

Remember, thorough preparation, effective communication, understanding lighting, having backup plans, and honing your editing skills are all essential elements in capturing the essence and pure joy of a couple's wedding day.

Longevity & Sustainability

You can only burn the candle at both ends for so long, so you need a sustainable and profitable business model for longevity. Even those who thrive on a packed schedule will eventually need a change of pace if they're in it for the long run.

Loving your job as a photographer is a blessing but comes with downsides. It's often difficult to separate work from your personal life when they're so closely connected. No matter how much you enjoy your profession, working more than you live is not a routine you'd want to keep forever.

A sustainable business model will ensure your business can consistently thrive without interfering with your personal life. A 24/7 working window is not sustainable and will only lead to burnout. Seasons of constant hustling are inevitable but not meant to be maintained. Figure out a system you can be excited about to live with long-term for longevity. 

Running yourself ragged could sacrifice your health and force you to take a step back anyway. Before you even reach that point, be aware of when you need rest and pay attention to signs of burnout. Study your business model and notice what areas give you life or leave you drained.

The ultimate goal is to make more income while working less. Can you increase your prices? How can you diversify your income? Can you build a team to lighten your load? If you feel you're always working, do you need to set boundaries between business hours and off time?

There are moments when it can be beyond tempting to throw in the towel. You wonder how much longer you can go on at this nonstop pace. But when you have an efficient workflow that saves time and enables you the freedom to live the life you want, you'll never wonder why this is the career you chose.

Longevity and sustainability are a necessity if you want to hit the double-digit years of being in business. Envision your dream work/life balance, then implement whatever changes are needed to make it a reality. As CEO, you have the authority to change anything you don't like about your workflow model or workplace environment. You are capable of having the business of your dreams!