Wedding Photography eBook Can Give You More Insights Into Taking Wedding Photos.

I have found a useful wedding photography ebook which gives some pointers and details on wedding photoshoot as well as group’s and portrait’s. This ebook’s title is “ Profitable Photography” by Bobby Jones and you can find it at Photobiz4u .

The first thing he advises is getting friendly with a professional photographer when possible.

Next, he makes some assumptions that “… as a competent amateur photographer you will already appreciate the basic aspects of exposure, depth of field, fill in flash and other such like basic techniques”, Profitable Photography, by Jones, Bobby, p3., 2005.

So that we can get into the fine techniques right away.

The first good practical activity that you should do right away “... is to shoot lots of film (or if you prefer digital frames) and critically analyze the results”, Jones, Bobby, p3.

Next, Bobby “… emphasizes the importance of familiarity of with your equipment…”,Jones, Bobby, p.3.

“ Nothing look more unprofessional than fumbling with your camera controls whilst your subjects look on…”, Jones, Bobby, p3.

Above points seems obvious, but you would be surprised how many amateur photographers are not familiar with at least 30 fine functions of his camera, and with a digital camera, probably more than 30 fine functions.

The ebook is divided into three main sections; package deal group photography, portraiture and wedding photography.

Let’s start with package deal photography. “A professional approach is essential.” Jones, Bobby, p7. Bobby does get into a great length on how you should build a professional image, even though you are just starting.

There is “ …opportunity to shoot high volume work of a repetitive or duplicative nature, e.g either lots of individuals or many individuals within one group.” Jones, Bobby, p8.

Some samples of groups; “ adults groups, dance groups, and play groups… football teams, crèches, pipe bands, church and religious groups…” Jones, Bobby, p.9.

Do post your services in the service section or your local newspaper. “Keep in mind the idea of free sample works for many products in the market.” Jones, Bobby, p.10.

You can give away free samples in a form of free shots for a group or an individual.

“Be honest when you get some responses. Tell them that” you are starting out in business as a photographer and that you are willing to come to where the group meets…”,Jones, Bobby, p.11.

“Do not hard sell.” Jones, Bobby,p.17. Bobby talks about creating your brochure clearly, and emphasizing free choice to buy.

Then Bobby gets into more camera’s equipment for group shots. Bobby feels that you can keep it simple and make sure you have a good flash unit, which he calls a flash gun. Some other accessories were mentioned but not emphasized.

Next, he goes into a great length for group positioning in order to achieve professional results.

“Always check for background distraction…”Jones, Bobby, p.13. As you can see here, nothing is worst than cluttered backgrounds.

A good tip on photographing children, “Bobby insists that the photographer works closely with the parent during the session for safety reasons.” Jones, Bobby, p.23.

In these sections, he gets into various methods to get children to relax and smile during the photoshoot.

Next, he gets into portrait photography. “Bobby emphasizes that you need to establish a good relationship with your customer. Good relationships bring out the best appearance during the photoshoot.

Bobby recommends that you practice the techniques with family and friends first.

Then, more tips on equipment. Should you get a permanent or portable studio ?Discussion on format and lens… More on lighting accessories and what not to do…(Jones, Bobby, p.33.)

Find out what the customer needs to prepare before the shots. I have found this advice very useful. This allows you some controlling influence during the session, and the result should be better than without it.

“You must relax and have fun during the photoshoot. This is a simple and effective technique to keep the session rolling smoothly.” Jones, Bobby, p.42. I think this is half of the battle, if you can relax, then the customer will relax too. I can recall that when every body relaxed, the shots came out better.

Now, lets get into wedding photography.

Bobby feels that “wedding photography is potentially the most lucrative and exciting area of the three.” “ Note that there are over 100 posed shots explained in the guide.” Jones Bobby, p.50. By follow the example shots, you can have a better idea on how to shoot the same scenarios.

More on flashgun, Bobby recommends you get a flash gun capable of sending out flash at about 15 feet or more (Jones, Bobby p.51.) A tripod is also necessary in many cases, and don’t forget an exposure meter (Jones, Bobby p.53).

Bobby explains that, the best way to start is to find some professional photographers and offer to assist them during a wedding session (Jones, Bobby p.55).

Next, Bobby shows you 10 ways to promote your sessions. I find this very useful. You can apply these methods in any service.

An important caution, “Never shoot a wedding on an informal basis.” Jones, Bobby p.64.He really emphasizes this point. This could damage your professional reputation.

Photographing guests can boost your services (Jones, Bobby p.65).

It is essential to prepare before the big day (Jones, Bobby p. 66.).

Then, check out your equipment including back-up. Visit the reception venue early to check out the locations.

And this is important, “Avoid shooting in direct sunlight.”Jones, Bobby p. 70.

“Do pay attention to the bridesmaids. Try to capture the full length pose.” Jones, Bobby p. 71.

There are more tips and techniques that you will find useful. So if you serious about being a part-time professional photographer, do consider this wedding photography book.

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