Question to you photographers that shoot weddings...

[kewk]

Given that someones wedding must be absolutely perfect in every way I do not see how one can practice shooting a wedding. Even if for free it seems like you would be obligated to produce quality photographs.

So how does one practice in order to become a great wedding photographer?

[JCleveland]

Get in touch with local photographers whose work you admire, and second shoot with them for several weddings.

[brian.austin]

Second shooter is definitely the best way to get hands-on practice.

Before that, honestly, you should know your stuff with your camera, posing, lighting, etc.. Trying to figure it out while capturing critical moments is doing a disservice to the couple and their desire for recording those memories, imo.

Once you've got that "stuff" down, you only need to focus on the wedding flow and predicting what moments will come so you're set up and ready for the shots.

[cman78]

Even before second shooting to a pro you need to be comfortable with your camera and your ability before stepping into the compensation arena. A pro is going to want to be sure you have some level of ability to capture and create shots. Those two terms are distinctly different to me. Capture meaning is it visible or more often said properly exposed. Create meaning does it have a message or purpose. Wedding photography especially is full of emotion a good photographer can make you have an emotional connection with a personalized napkin. (so start shooting napkins ) just kidding... but seriously don't pass up the vows written on a napkin that's good stuff there.

Once you've got that "stuff" down, you only need to focus on the wedding flow and predicting what moments will come so you're set up and ready for the shots

Brian is right on here those are wise words. One of your greatest tools in getting great captures at weddings is planning. When you already know where to be and when to be there for the moment, how can you miss it?

[gwynemark]

You don't have to be at a wedding to practice. We practice with our kids, with our friends, etc...as for the actual wedding and the ceremony, you can practice with a group of kids that you know. Nobody moves faster than kids and there is always an opportunity to catch true emotion. Wedding photography today is about capturing the moments as they unfold. Don't worry about poses so muchwhen it comes to couples shots, just put them against a nice background and have them interact. You will be amazed how soon the genuine faces will appear.

[kewk]

Great advice from all of you thanks!

[Dratom]

That is how I got into wedding! Cindy (littlegal) took me on as a third shooter last November. (still cursing her for getting me hooked on weddings!!)

[cman78]

Originally Posted by Dratom

That is how I got into wedding! Cindy (littlegal) took me on as a third shooter last November. (still cursing her for getting me hooked on weddings!!)

And we are thanking her! You are a great wedding photographer.

[texasshooter]

I would like to add to those who have contributed. I agree with all that had been said, but I would say that you should not lose the note of respect you have touched upon in your post. You are correct in saying that everything should be as perfect as you can make it.... Too many people lose that idea and attempt to cut corners, take short-cuts and minimize effort, and before you know it their weddings are boring and canned. Too many people feel that being professional means someone is willing to pay you to do the work, but far from it. People are paying you to fill a need.... yes.... but they are really trusting you to visualize everything that can go wrong and anticipate a solution. They are saying to you... I am trusting you with the memories of one of the most important day of my life..... you yourself appear to know and appreciate that fact and respect it, so you maybe more ahead of the game than many "so called" professionals.

[Liza]

You not only need to know how to use your camera, you also need to understand the business of photography and invest in that business. Too many people think they can buy a Digital Rebel with a kit lens and make money shooting weddings. That is NOT the case. It takes time, effort, determinations and money to make a go of it.