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As summer gets into full swing, many couples will be making final arrangements for their special day. A current photographic trend is to let wedding guests capture the day's highlights, rather than relying on a private, and usually expensive, photographer.
One of the most important things to remember when considering the option of letting your guests capture on camera the highlights of your nuptials is the simple fact that the day cannot be retrieved.
If the developed films make for a poor, or even pathetic, representation of your ceremony, there is very little you can do about it. The wedding is a defining moment, and the record of it should obviously reflect this uniqueness, for you and future generations.
Whilst most couples still hire a professional photographer, the number deciding to take 'the DIY option' is steadily increasing - hardly surprising when you consider that the average cost of a US wedding is approximately $17,000.
Many bridal receptions now include disposable 'single use' cameras at every table. Although this is a fantastic idea in principle, you run the risk of the resulting shots to solely highlight the Elvis impressions of Uncle John, rather than catching genuine and personal moments a photographer might miss, so be wary!
This should be the perfect opportunity, but shoot these like a professional: have some of the people at your table stand up and move behind those still seated, so the happy couple will remember all the people at that table.
Avoid showing the entire table, complete with half-eaten food remnants-concentrate instead on the faces of the guests.
Another photo opportunity exists at the head table. Remember, the bride and groom can't be at every table to take part in the festivities, so relatively candid shots can be taken showing the guests having fun in a way the professional photographer isn't likely to capture (again, minus Uncle John's antics!).
There are a couple of things to bear in mind regarding wedding photography etiquette. If taking shots in a church, synagogue, mosque or chapel, obviously respect the wishes of the bride and groom. If they have hired a professional for selected key shots, then take your cue from the photographer.
Some places of worship will also allow flash pictures for the ceremony, whilst others frown upon it. Again, this is really a matter of consultation with the bride and groom, because they have chosen the venue.
When the ceremony is finished, the best place to get close up, and more unique shots of the newlyweds are from one of the aisles. This should make for great photography, as the couple will fill the frame as they leave the church.
If a photographer is hired, you should respect their credentials and not get in the way. If a professional is there, it's for a reason!
Don Markson, a professional photographer, says that wedding photos should be about "offbeat but sensitive wedding photography", and this should be kept in mind when allowing guests loose with cameras.
Other relatively obvious tips for guests taking the photographic plunge are things such as not taking shots of people with bright/disco lights in the background, as this will obscure them.
Taking shots in smoky atmospheres will also affect picture quality, as will the use of flashlights during any evening functions.
Also, check with family and friends - you could be surprised at how much they know about photography in general, or the specific pitfalls associated with wedding shots.
Ultimately, the shots should represent the mood, fun and flavor of the special day, so try to enjoy the whole experience, and the rest should follow!
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