Gain experience by working as a photography assistant or second shooter to a local wedding photographer. [2] X Research source Watch online tutorials, attend workshops, and practice on your own to learn how to edit photos in software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. Editing software will take your photos to the professional level and allow you to easily import and manage pictures. [3] X Research source
Apply for a business license by searching online for the local Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) or State License Bureau. [4] X Research source
Get at least two DSLR camera bodies ($1,500 to $2,000 each). If anything goes wrong with your primary camera on the wedding day, you’ll need to be prepared. [7] X Research source Choose multiple lenses to be able to shoot different distances and a variety of apertures. To process and store your photos, you’ll need multiple memory cards ($50+ each), two or more external hard drives ($120 each), and a computer with enough memory to store your photos ($2000). For working on the big day, you’ll need a tripod, monopod, camera bags, and flashes. Rent your gear before you purchase to see if it works for you!
In your introductory email, include a personalized greeting and talk about your familiarity with the photographer’s work. Let them know you’re willing to work as a second shooter, assistant, or unpaid assistant (depending on your experience level), and include a link to your portfolio. [9] X Research source Email photographers with specific dates when you’re available in order to make the request feel real and practical to them. For instance, try ending your email with, “If you need a second photographer from June 20-29th, please let me know. ”[10] X Research source
Develop your personal style by looking to your favorite photographers’ portfolios for inspiration. See what elements you like, and try to bring them to life in your own work. [13] X Research source
Use location tags so that potential clients can find you by searching popular wedding venues.
Your cheapest package might include just an 8-hr wedding shoot and digital files. For your medium-priced package, consider including an 8-hr wedding shoot, an engagement session, and digital files. [18] X Research source Your highest-priced package might include an 8-hr wedding shoot, an engagement session, digital files, a second photographer, and an album or print photos. [19] X Research source Avoid severely underpricing or undervaluing your work. You’ve built up a portfolio and you have gear upkeep, software subscriptions, and other expenses to pay![20] X Research source
You can hire a lawyer to draw up contracts and photo releases or find several contracts for free online.
Some venues might even require you to have a certificate of insurance (COI) for you to be able to shoot at a wedding. [24] X Research source Since there’s no official “photography insurance” you can look for a business owner’s policy (BOP) through standard policy providers which will cover general liability and property insurance. [25] X Research source If you’re a member of a photography organization like Professional Photographers of America (PPA), you might be able to get insured through the organization. [26] X Research source You can write off all photography-related insurance costs as a business expense. [27] X Research source
The median salary for wedding photographers in 2021 is around $41,280 per year. [29] X Trustworthy Source US Bureau of Labor Statistics U. S. government agency that collects and reports labor-related information Go to source
Create a shoot list with your clients to ensure you don’t miss any must-have photos. [31] X Research source Decide how and when you’ll deliver the photos. Do your clients want digital access only or will you also provide prints? Should they expect the photos in 2 weeks after the wedding or in 2 months?
To ask a guest to move out of a shot say, “Can you please move a bit to the side? I can’t see the bride, and I want these photos to turn out well for the couple. Thank you!” To encourage guests to stay on schedule, say, “We’ve already taken a lot of photos, and I think they turned out well, but now it’s time for the couple to head to the reception. ”
