Shoot-saving kit
1. Comfy shoes
Price: $100
Website: www.clarks.co.uk
Why do I need it? If it’s not the kind of
wedding where your old trainers will make the grade, invest in a pair of presentable
but comfortable shoes that will keep your feet protected while still appearing
to have made a concerted effort to look good.
2. Black rapid arm defense (BRAD)
Price: $15
Website: www.blackrapid.com
Why do I need it? Designed to attach to
your camera strap, it ensures your camera stays put while you’re on the move. A
perfect item to keep a second camera strapped to your body while shooting with
your first camera.
3. Umbrellas
Price: $15
Website: www.brolliesgalore.co.uk
Why do I need it? Take some creative snaps
when the weather gets miserable by keeping a collection of same-coloured
umbrellas in your car. If the drizzle is minimal you can get them out and continue
the family shots with the added weather-friendly props.
4. Step ladder
Price: $60
Website: wilkinsonplus.com
Why do I need it? Give yourself a height
advantage when shooting the entire wedding. Steps are handy, but not always
available at every location. People tend to notice a lone soul on a step ladder
and this helps you get some cooperation.
5. Blot powder
Price: $23
Website: www.maccosmetics.co.uk
Why do I need it? Blot-down a flustered
bride, or groom, with some shine control powder that adds no colour to the
skin. You may have a hard time convincing the groom to use it, but his new wife
will thank you if she’s wilting when it’s time for her close-up.
6. Wet wipes
Price: $3
Website: www.vitalbaby.co.uk
Why do I need it? Whether the flower girl’s
sticky fingers come into contact with your gear or you need a freshen-up
yourself, having some wipes to hand is always a good idea. Tuck a small pack
neatly into your kit bad ready to pull out for any wedding spill.
Pro advice Paul C Wynn
Weddings are about so much more than being
a good photographer. To be successful you need a wide range of personal
qualities such as being a good organiser, a diplomat, a leader and friend. No
matter how well-planned the wedding day is. The unpredictable nature of weather
can cause havoc with your photography. Prepare by visiting the venues and
creating a plan for dealing with different weather situations. This will give
you more confidence on the day and improve the opportunity of getting the
stunning images your bride and groom deserve. Be respectful and patient, but
take charge to get the shots your couple want. I use a pre-wedding shoot to
build up a personal rapport and earn the «sped of my clients, this will pay
dividends on the day when you need to influence and shape events.
Besides the usual photography equipment,
vital items to add to the kitbag are water and a banana. A wedding is a full-on
day, and it is
important to look after yourself to get the
best results for your clients. I've found these can keep me going through the
important moments when you need to be shooting, not worrying about your
stomach.