Kim Ruelo: 2012

Almost a month ago, I shot a wedding and had the luxury of an assistant for the first time! He was nervous about his first shoot and it made me think about how one must overcome wedding photographer anxiety.

Here's some highlights from the shoot: http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.246605968780676.54890.241272022647404&type=1

1. It's ok to be nervous
A little bit of that nervous adrenaline can be good (in moderation)! A small dose can make you think faster and become more hyperaware.

2. Survival Instincts
Shooting weddings can feel like a lot of pressure, because it's a one-time event (for the bride and groom hopefully). I like to think of it the same as survival.

If you're lost in the Amazon, you're covered under large trees and you spot a rescue helicopter, you're not supposed to run in view. If you run, you may fall and break something and THEN your chances of being found are even slimmer. You're supposed to slow down.

Wedding photography is the same thing. Unless you thrive under pressure, slow yourself down, pull the camera away from your face, look around, take a deep breath before shooting and THEN you can start shooting. Don't just shoot to shoot and really observe what's worth documenting.

3. Shoot shoot shoot
I know I just said to not shoot to just shoot, but this is actually a similar yet different point. Don't be afraid to take a shot. It's better to have more than less! Especially when you take group photos, there's always that one person who blinks when everyone elses' eyes are open. Shoot multiple consecutive shots on that tripod to combine shots together in post-production.

4. Be a ninja
Stay neutral as possible. I recommend wearing black for this reason and also so that you aren't reflecting any light with colored or white clothes. You want to camouflage in your surroundings as much as possible. Don't wear clothes that make you stand out and let the bride and groom shine.

5. Go to the rehearsal
It's extra work, but if you really wanna come prepared, go to the rehearsal so you can scout out great shooting spots before the actual wedding. Also, sometimes the bridal party processes in differently than you'd expect so make sure you know where they will come out and stand so that you'll get those key shots and also not bump into anyone.

6. Have fun!