Wedding photography is one of the most fulfilling and challenging jobs in the world. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime event that’s filled with emotion, happiness, and love—and it all has to be captured perfectly through your lens. But, as with any job, there are a few things you need to know before jumping into the industry.

First, it’s important to understand the different types of shooting and editing styles. This can help you determine which ones are right for you and the clients you’ll be working with. For example, traditional or classic: this style focuses on timeless, posed portraits of the couple and their families. Photojournalism: This style is a documentary approach that captures real moments as they happen. Dark and moody: This style is similar to lifestyle but has a darker, more dramatic look.

During the ceremony: This is a key part of any wedding day, so it’s important to have a solid plan of action for taking your shots. This includes scouting the location beforehand and planning ahead so you know where to go to get the best results. It’s also a good idea to bring multiple camera lenses and a few flashes in case there are any unexpected lighting situations.

For family and group photos, it’s essential to have a clear game plan of who you want to photograph, how many frames you need, and when. This can be tricky when family dynamics change or guests have a few drinks, so it’s important to be flexible and adjust your strategy on the fly.

It’s also a good idea to have extra battery packs and memory cards—and plenty of water to stay hydrated! Especially when you’re doing something as fast-paced as wedding photography, you’ll need to keep your batteries charged and your cards clear so that you don’t miss any of the important moments.

Wedding photography can be a bit like sports photography: you have a limited amount of time to capture the perfect shot, and once it’s gone, it’s gone forever. It’s important to be aware of when key moments are about to happen (like the first time the groom sees his bride or the exchange of rings) and be prepared to take several frames in that moment.

Weddings are full of little details that can add up to make a big impact on the final product. It’s important to make sure you capture these details, from the intricate designs on the backs of dresses to the vibrant flowers in the bouquets. It’s the little things that often hold the most meaning for the couple and can add a touch of enchantment to their wedding album.