[ ] Select an amateur photographer
__ Family member
__ Friend
__ Work colleague
__ Photography enthusiast
[ ] Select an assistant (or two) for your amateur photographer
__ Ask your photographer if they have someone in mind already
[ ] Ensure your amateur photographer is 100% confident with their camera and equipment
[ ] Schedule a meeting with your amateur photographer
__ If necessary, discuss how you will pay for their services, e.g. with cash, camera equipment
[ ] Discuss camera views and ideas
__ Use natural light as much as possible
__ Study shadows and highlights
__ When to expose
[ ] Inform your amateur photographer of the variety of shots you want on the day
__ Full-length
__ Three-quarter
__ Head and shoulder portraits
__ Group shots
__ Sequence shots
__ Creative angles
__ Other …
[ ] Ensure your photographer has studied and tested various specifics with the selected camera and equipment
__ Continuous shooting mode
__ Flash brightness and control
__ Handling backlight problems
__ Iris control
__ Shutter speed control
__ Using diffused light
__ When to use a tripod
__ Zoom control
It is also a good idea to turn off the camera function and shutter sounds so they don’t cause distraction.
[ ] Discuss photography equipment that will be needed
__ Accessories bag
__ Batteries
__ Battery belt
__ Cables
__ Camera
__ Film
__ Filters
__ Flashes, e.g. speedlights, diffusing dome
__ Lens cleaning materials
__ Lenses, e.g. zoom, prime, wide angle
__ Light meter
__ Memory cards
__ Reflective discs
__ Reflectors
__ Small step ladder
__ Tabletop tripod
__ Tripod
[ ] Have extra equipment on standby, e.g. back-up camera, spare batteries, memory cards
[ ] Survey the ceremony and reception venues with your photographer
__ Identify suitable camera positions
__ Utilize natural backgrounds
__ Be aware of night time shooting, low light and indoor colors
[ ] Have a photography trial with the camera your amateur photographer will be using
__ Body placement and angle
__ Face placement and angle
__ Camera angles, e.g. looking up or down
__ Practise relaxed and happy expressions
__ Practise poses and looks that are flattering
[ ] Reimburse your photographer for any costs they will outlay, e.g. batteries, memory cards