Do you know what wedding photographers and senior portrait photographers have in common? They both excel at capturing the essence and milestones of their clients. For wedding photographers looking to expand their business and skills, senior portrait photography is a lucrative niche market worth exploring. Additionally, offering senior portrait sessions can provide a steady stream of income and an opportunity to earn during the off-season and slower months. By leveraging your talents and offering senior portrait photography sessions, you can overcome the challenge of filling your calendar and continue to thrive throughout the year. So, let’s explore how you can become a senior portrait photographer by seamlessly adding this specialized service to your wedding photography business.
Tips For Wedding Pros Aspiring To Be Senior Portrait Photographers
Senior portrait photography involves capturing images of high school seniors as they prepare to enter a new chapter in their lives. It’s a unique and rewarding experience that allows you to capture the milestone achievements of these young adults that will last a lifetime.
1. Research And Understand The Market
When it comes to offering senior photo shoots, understanding and researching the market is an essential first step. Senior portraits hold immense significance in the lives of graduating students as they embark on the journey of adulthood. These portraits symbolize their individuality, accomplishments, and dreams for the future. As a photographer, recognizing the demand for senior portrait photographers is crucial. With parents and students seeking professional senior portraits, there is a vast market waiting to be tapped into. By incorporating this service into your wedding photography business, you not only diversify your offerings but also open up new avenues for generating revenue.
It’s important to set a competitive rate that reflects the quality of your work. This means analyzing your market and understanding what other senior portrait photographers are charging. Pricing your services too low might not attract high-paying clients while pricing them too high might drive them away. So, how do you set prices that make everyone happy? A smart solution is to offer various packages to provide a tailored portrait experience that suits different budgets and preferences! By setting a rate that aligns with the value you bring to the table, you establish yourself as a sought-after graduation portrait photographer, which can lead to earning extra money!
Pro Tip: Upsell products like prints, albums, and digital files to increase value and profits.
3. Update Your Portfolio And Market It Effectively
Create a dedicated portfolio that features your best work in this genre and highlights your unique style and approach. Start with a well-curated selection of images that demonstrate your ability to create compelling, high-quality photos that commemorate this occasion. This portfolio can be showcased as a separate section on your existing website or even as a standalone online gallery. Having a visually appealing and user-friendly online portfolio can help potential clients easily view your work in their own time. This can help them visualize what their own senior portraits might look like and make it more convenient for them to choose your services.
After finalizing your portfolio, develop compelling marketing materials, including brochures or postcards, that effectively exhibit your work while also providing clear information about your services and pricing. Additionally, leveraging social media platforms to promote your senior portrait photography services can greatly enhance your marketing efforts and yield positive results.
Senior portrait photographers can seize the chance to request referrals and reviews from their current clients after successfully booking a few sessions. By asking them to share their photography experiences with you and refer you to their family and friends, you tap into the power of personal recommendations, which hold immense credibility.
Moreover, creating a captivating online portfolio displaying senior portrait images and testimonials is a great way to attract potential clients. Let your work speak for itself, showcasing your creativity, technical skill, and ability to capture the unique personalities of graduating seniors. Encourage your existing clients to leave testimonials and reviews, which serve as social proof and further bolster your reputation. These opportunities not only boost your credibility but also open doors to new clients and collaborations.
5. Plan Your Sessions
To begin with, prepare a shot list to organize your session and optimize the time you have with your clients. Researching locations before the shoot is equally important, as this can help you experiment with various settings and capture some stunning senior portraits. “Is there a city out there with a vibe that speaks to them? Is there a favorite place where they always hang out?” – Ask your seniors these questions, and conduct the session at their favorite spot.
Plus, recommend different senior portrait poses to your clients, as not everyone is comfortable in front of the camera or knows how to pose. By giving your clients some suggestions, you can help your clients feel more at ease and confident during the session.
If you’re still looking for some more senior portrait ideas on how to make your client’s session memorable, add some props or take candid senior portraits to show off their authentic personality! By going above and beyond, you can create stunning senior portraits and give your clients an unforgettable experience.
Adding senior portrait photography to your wedding photography business is an excellent way to maximize your income and expand your client base. Don’t be intimidated by the idea of tapping into a new niche market; your skills as a wedding photographer have already prepared you to produce exceptional senior portraits. Use the off-season to promote and market your new service, offer customizable packages, and request referrals to establish a unique selling proposition that sets you apart from competitors. Also, remember to keep up with the latest trends and marketing techniques and always offer excellent customer service.
At ShootDotEdit, we are committed to helping you grow your wedding photography business. And to help you with that, we lessen your post-production workload with our professional photo editing services that match your style. To learn more about how we can help, check out our pricing plans.
Are you a wedding photographer seeking to take your business to the next level and expand your reach? Well, here’s a game-changing tip for you: Consider embracing in-person sales! Not only do photography sales provide couples with a personalized and exceptional experience that really shows off all of your work, but it can also give great returns by opening up avenues to make more money than traditional methods. This blog features insights from Chris Scott, the founder of Swift Galleries, and Kelly Wilde, a successful photographer and business owner of June Lion. We’ll dive into their philosophies and tips to help photographers conquer their fear of selling and host effective in-person sales meetings. Get ready to increase your revenue and make it a breeze for couples to say “I do” to your services!
How To Get Started With In-Person Sales
Photography sales can be challenging, especially if you’re newly transitioning into this process. To get started, firstly, you need to get past the stigma around ‘sales’. Instead of thinking of IPS in photography as an abbreviation for in-person sales, try to think of it as an incredibly personalized service.
Start with introducing the idea to your clients. You can mention selling products during your initial calls or meetings so that they know what to expect. Once you have the final edited photos, try scheduling a viewing session to showcase your work and offer guidance on selecting the best products. This requires dedication, but also has the power to take your business to the next level by helping you build photography client relationships.
In-Person Sales Techniques For A Successful Session
1. Find The Right Venue To Host The Event
The first step to hosting an in-person sale event is finding the right space to accommodate your photography clients. Whether it’s a coffee shop, a rented studio space, or even your own home, the venue should be comfortable, accessible, and conducive to showcasing your work.
Consider factors like parking, lighting, and privacy when evaluating potential venues. You should also think about the vibe and atmosphere you want to create. Do you want a cozy and intimate setting or a more open and professional one? Keep your ideal client in mind when making this decision.
2. Prepare For Your Session
Preparation is key to making a good impression and closing the deal during a sales session. To ensure a successful session, prepare your sales materials beforehand, like albums, prints, digital images, and other files. Make sure everything is polished and presented in a way that showcases your unique style and personality. You should also prepare a list of questions to ask your potential clients to better understand their needs, preferences, and budget. Finally, practice your sales pitch and refine your photography print pricing and package options. You want to be confident and knowledgeable during your session.
3. Consider An Online Gallery Presentation
Many wedding photographers today prefer to connect with clients remotely through video conferencing. The focus should be on crafting a compelling presentation that’ll help maximize sales. Use screen sharing to showcase your portfolio and product options, and encourage your clients to ask questions and give feedback throughout the session.
When delivering a presentation, it’s important to have a clear structure. You should aim to divide it into three parts: the first third should be focused on getting to know your audience, the second third should cover your offerings and photography pricing list, and the final third should be dedicated to answering any questions they may have. Additionally, be sure to overlay your screen with your photography prices and include action shots of your product.
The sales process isn’t just about showing your clients pretty pictures and pricing sheets. You need to learn how to sell photography prints by creating an experience that is memorable and personalized to their style. One way to do this is by incorporating fun, interactive elements into your sales session. For example, you can consider creating a slideshow of their engagement photos with a personalized soundtrack. Plus, you can offer interactive activities like creating a mood board for their wedding or designing a custom album layout together. These ideas help you gain insight into their tastes and preferences, allowing you to tailor your offerings to their liking.
5. Offer Options And Guidance
When presenting your clients with their images, it’s important to give them a range of options for prints, albums, wall art, and other products. Take the time to explain the differences between each option, such as canvas, acrylic, and metal, and offer recommendations based on their preferences and budget. Showing them how the wall art will look in their space can also make a huge difference.
To help guide your clients through the product selection process, consider using online tools and software. Additionally, you can bring along samples of the products to in-person sales sessions, allowing your clients to touch and feel the quality of each item. These small touches can help make your clients feel valued and set you apart from your competition.
Tips To Manage Client Relationships During A Sales Session
During a sales session, it’s important to be attentive to your client’s needs and preferences and make them feel valued throughout the entire process. Be patient and understanding if they have questions or concerns, and make sure to explain your processes and policies in a clear and transparent manner.
While you don’t want to pressure your clients into buying anything, it’s a good idea to give them a sense of urgency. One way to do this is by offering special discounts, as a marketing strategy for photography business, to encourage clients to make a decision while they’re still excited about all the images. Being proactive and discussing sales with previous clients can be highly beneficial. It allows you to highlight missed opportunities for capturing special life memories and offering a solution for doing so.
Some common questions that arise in many photographers’ minds are, “What is IPS photography?” and “What are some ways for photographers to make money?” Making money as a photographer while wowing your clients with a personal touch can be tough. But fear not, in-person sales is the answer to all your worries! By incorporating this into your wedding photography, you can see a major boost in your profits while offering clients a more personalized experience. Follow these tips, invest in in-person sales training, and explore in-person sales case studies to see how others have successfully implemented this approach. By mastering the art of in-person sales, you can even learn tips to sell digital files and really take your business to the next level. Plus, your clients will love the personal touch!
At ShootDotEdit, we know how precious time is for wedding photographers and help to lessen your post-production workload with our professional photo editing services. To learn more about how we can help you grow your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
In this competitive wedding photography industry, it’s essential to distinguish yourself from others in the field and attract the right clientele. To help you out, we are sharing five valuable tips to land the ideal client and achieve success. These tips will help you understand how to reach out to potential customers and effectively communicate with them. By implementing these marketing strategies and relationship-building techniques, you’ll be able to connect with clients who are eager to collaborate with you on their special day. So, read this blog post to discover how to win over those dream clients!
5 Tips To Land The Ideal Client For Wedding Photography Business
1. Curate Your Niche Photography Portfolio
Establishing your niche in the wedding photography industry is a critical step in attracting your ideal wedding photography client. To stand out from competitors and attract couples who appreciate your artistic vision, it is important to develop your own photography style and expertise. To achieve this, start by conducting market research of your ideal client profile and understanding their preferences, values, and expectations. This knowledge will help you curate a portfolio specifically tailored to your target client’s tastes, showcasing your ability to capture the essence of their special day.
Your wedding photography portfolio should be a visual representation of your distinct photography style, highlighting your technical skills and creative flair. By focusing on your niche and presenting a cohesive, well-crafted portfolio, you can effectively communicate your value proposition to your potential new client, increasing the likelihood of attracting your ideal customers who appreciate and seek your unique talents.
2. Focus On Business Branding
It all starts with branding! Your brand should reflect your unique photography style, values, and personality, enabling possible clients to connect with you on a deeper level. To achieve this, start by developing a consistent visual identity across all platforms, including your website, social media profiles, and marketing materials. This cohesive approach will help establish trust and recognition among your target audience.
In addition to branding, leveraging multiple platforms and channels is crucial for spreading the word about your services. Social media, blogging, and email marketing are some effective ways of doing this. Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest are great platforms to showcase your work and engage with your potential and existing clients. By creating a robust online presence and maintaining a consistent brand image, you’ll effectively communicate your value and appeal to those perfect clients who appreciate your distinctive style and skills.
For wedding photographers, leveraging search engine optimization (SEO) techniques is a powerful way to attract ideal clients and increase online visibility. SEO helps ensure that your website ranks higher in search engine results, allowing couples searching for wedding photographers to easily find you. Effective SEO strategies include the following:
Start by conducting keyword research to identify relevant terms and phrases that your target audience is likely to use when searching for wedding photography services. Incorporate these keywords strategically throughout your website; include them in titles, headings, image descriptions, and other content.
Focus on creating high-quality, engaging content that showcases your expertise and provides value to your audience. This can include blog posts, articles, and resources related to wedding photography, which will not only improve your website’s SEO but also position you as an authority in your niche.
Optimize your website’s design as well as performance. Ensure fast loading times, mobile-friendliness, and easy navigation for better client experience.
Build a strong backlink profile by collaborating with other industry professionals and reputable websites. Having high-quality backlinks on your website indicates to search engines that your website is a credible and useful resource.
4. Build Relationships With Ideal Clients
Don’t miss out on taking advantage of organic connections when shooting weddings! Engage with the couple’s family and friends, other vendors, and guests, and be a positive presence throughout the day. These interactions can lead to valuable word-of-mouth referrals and recommendations that’ll help reach your ideal wedding photography client.
You can also attend local industry events or workshops to network with potential clients and showcase your expertise. These events provide opportunities to engage with couples, share your work with past clients, and establish trust and rapport. Offering a free consultation can help establish trust with potential clients and lead to repeat business. Don’t hesitate to use these tips to secure more high-quality leads! When reaching out to potential clients, be genuine, respectful, and willing to go above and beyond to maintain the relationship.
One of the top tips to land the ideal client is networking, which involves building authentic relationships based on mutual respect and trust. By establishing connections with key players in the wedding industry, you can generate a steady stream of high-quality leads.
Building relationships with other industry professionals and attending local events will help expand your reach and connect with potential clients in a meaningful way. Start finding clients by reaching out to local wedding vendors, such as planners, florists, and caterers, and introduce yourself, inquire about referral partnerships, and learn more about their services. These connections can lead to referrals and collaborations that help grow your business.
Landing the ideal client for wedding photographers requires a robust customer acquisition strategy that incorporates various tactics to attract and retain high-quality leads. From building an engaged audience with an online brand presence to networking with industry professionals and attending local events, these strategies can help you connect with potential clients and build meaningful relationships. Additionally, leveraging effective SEO techniques and creating valuable content can further establish your expertise and credibility in the industry. Remember, building a successful wedding photography business takes time and effort, but with a strategic mindset, commitment to your craft, and following these top tips to land the ideal client, you can achieve your goals and create a rewarding career.
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you hone your craft! And we help with that by taking editing off your plate with our professional photo editing services, giving you more time to learn new skills. To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
If you’re looking to create stunning, romantic photos that capture the warm and intimate atmosphere of your wedding event, then window light photography is an excellent technique to consider. It involves using the delicate and mesmerizing light that shines in through windows to create breathtaking and intimate photographs that will leave your clients head over heels in love. Whether you’re capturing a bride and groom’s intimate first look or experimenting with creative angles at the venue, this technique offers endless possibilities for creating beautiful and memorable photos! In this blog post, we’ll share tips and ideas on how you can make the most of window light photography during wedding events. Get ready to be inspired and transport your couples into their perfect world of fantasy and romance with stunning photos!
When searching for the ideal window to use for your window light photography, it’s important to consider factors like the window’s size and position. Larger windows will provide more space for light to enter, and an east-facing window could be just perfect for morning shoots with natural light. If you want constant, even lighting throughout the day, then a north-facing window is your best bet.
Experiment with different times of day to see how the light changes and what effect it has on your photos. While the early morning light can create a soft and warm effect, the golden hour light can add a cool, moody glow to your images. Avoid positioning your subject in direct sunlight, as the light direction and source can create unflattering and harsh shadows on their face. Instead, look for soft, diffused light to illuminate your subject.
Knowing how to position your subject in relation to the window is crucial in window light photography. Assess the quality of light and choose the right angle that works best for your portraits lighting. Positioning your subject closer to the window will create softer light, while positioning them further away will create a harder, more contrasting effect. Play around with different distances and photography lighting techniques to find the perfect balance for your shot. Moreover, pay attention to the background and look for interesting textures and colors that can add depth and interest to your shot.
Feel free to experiment with various angles and directions to create unique and interesting lighting effects. Shoot from above, below, or at a diagonal angle to create unique and interesting compositions. This can also create a more dynamic play of light and shadow, and add depth and texture to your photos. For example, shooting directly into the window can create a dramatic lighting and moody feel, while side lighting can add depth and dimension to your images.
Experiment with different lighting scenarios, and use multiple light sources to ensure that the overall exposure and white balance are well-balanced. A flash or continuous light source can help supplement natural light, to fill in shadows and create a more even exposure. Try using different light modifiers like softboxes or reflectors to manipulate the quality of light and create a specific mood or atmosphere. You can also play with color gels that can add a creative twist to your photos or evoke a particular mood.
Certain camera settings help achieve the intended result of your photographs. Adjust your aperture to create depth of field in your dramatic images. This allows you to selectively focus on certain elements in the shot while blurring out others, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality. Adjusting your shutter speed will freeze or blur motion, which can add a sense of movement or emotion to your image. Pay attention to your ISO settings, as higher ISO values can create grainy images that may detract from the overall quality of the shot. Lastly, experiment with white balance to create specific moods or atmospheres.
Windows can create some beautiful shadows that can add depth and texture to your images. Shadows can also help create lines and patterns that draw the eye in, leading to a stronger composition. Use the light coming through the window to cast shadows on the wall or ground, adding some interest to the photograph.
To create a silhouette, try positioning your subjects in front of the window and expose for the bright background. This will create a dark, shadowy image that highlights the form and shape of your subjects. Working well for both posed and candid moments, silhouettes can be incredibly powerful and emotive.
Windows can be breathtaking backdrops for your photos as they add a framing effect, drawing the viewer’s eye to the subject. They can also add a touch of vintage charm to your images, especially if you’re shooting in an older building with rustic windows. Experiment with different angles and positions to find the best composition that captures the beauty of the windows as well.
Consider using different materials and textures to create interesting patterns and highlights in your photograph. Experiment with angles and positions for a creative image with unique compositions. Reflective surfaces like mirrors, metallic objects, or even water can help to bounce light back onto your subject, creating unique and striking compositions.
Window light can enhance details, add depth, and create textures and patterns. Position subjects close to the window for soft light that flatters. Experiment with shadows and light for mood, colors, and contrast. Adjust aperture settings for depth of field and highlight specific details in your shot. Window panes, blinds, and curtains can be used as window coverings to create captivating light patterns. Take advantage of these unique lighting opportunities for a creative edge in your shots.
Window lighting can produce stunning bokeh and flare effects. To create bokeh, use a wide aperture and focus on a subject near the window. This way a shallow depth of field blurs the background into a soft haze. To create flare, shoot directly into the window with a slightly closed aperture for a warm and ethereal glow.
Take advantage of the window light photography tips given in this blog to create timeless wedding portraits that capture the day’s beauty and emotion. Understand the nuances of low light photography, hard lighting vs. soft lighting, and how to shoot portraits with natural light to elevate your photography skills. Experiment with angles, reflections, bokeh, and texture to capture stunning window light portraits that will make your clients’ hearts skip a beat.
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you build your wedding photography business. We aim to help you get to where you want to be easier and faster. We also offer professional photo editing services to lessen your post-production workload so you can focus on getting more business. To learn more about how we can help, check out our pricing plans.
Being a professional photographer AND managing the day-to-day operations of a successful photography business is not an easy feat! To make this challenge easier for you, we’ve got the best business practices for photographers from none other than ShootDotEdit customer Diane Clifford, the visionary behind Diane Nicole Photography! In this blog, the full-time photographer and mother of two spills her top secrets on how to be a successful business owner. From staying organized to knowing your gear inside and out, Diane’s knowledge and resource for photographers is an absolute game-changer for anyone starting a photography business. So, grab a cup of coffee and a notebook, and get ready to elevate your business game!
Being organized is a non-negotiable skill that photography business owners must develop in order to succeed. It allows you to keep track of client information, schedules, and deadlines, and also makes way for a smooth and stress-free workflow. While keeping track of all the details might seem daunting, being organized is one of the best business practices for photographers that all professionals will recommend.
As Diane Clifford attests, organization is even more crucial once parenting comes into play. The added responsibility requires a renewed focus on keeping everything running smoothly. Clients will appreciate a photographer who is well-organized and detail-oriented. Taking the time to improve your organizational skills can elevate your business and set you apart from the competition. From scheduling to file keeping, streamlining your photography business workflow and maintaining business order is one of the vital professional business practices that will set you up for a successful photography career.
Diane suggests that one of the best business practices for wedding photographers to manage the various tasks that come with being a creative professional and business owner is to adopt the habit of batch working. She shared with us how she uses her childcare days to ‘grind it out’ and complete as much work as possible. By doing so, she is able to focus on her family on their days and dedicate her workdays to her business. By implementing batch working into your own routine, you can also save time and focus on what matters most. As a wedding photographer, you can set aside dedicated time each week to complete similar tasks, such as editing and responding to emails. This will help you increase your efficiency and productivity.
Finding a mentor is one of the best professional photography business practices you can adopt as a wedding photographer. Diane, a seasoned photographer, particularly emphasizes the need for female photographers to have a mentor, someone to guide them and keep them motivated.
When searching for a mentor, it’s important to look for someone whose style speaks to you. A mentor can guide you, help you avoid mistakes, and keep you motivated. While there are numerous ways to learn things online, having a mentor provides you with the follow-up and follow-through that you need. They’ve gone through the same journey before you and can help you achieve success in the wedding photography business. So if you’re looking to take your wedding photography career to the next level, consider finding a mentor to guide you.
4. Master Your Skills With Complete Gear Knowledge
Getting acquainted with your equipment is undoubtedly one of the best business practices for photographers. It’s not just about investing in the latest camera model but rather taking time to read through the manual and familiarize yourself with every function and feature of your wedding photography gear. This advice from seasoned photographer Diane is invaluable and shouldn’t be overlooked.
The more you understand your equipment, the more confident you’ll be when faced with challenging lighting conditions or unexpected events. So, take the time to get to know your gear and embrace all the incredible ways it can help you capture stunning images that will impress your clients.
Managing both the creative and business end means you already have a lot on your plate. From consultations and shooting to post-production and marketing, there’s always something that demands your attention. But outsourcing can simplify your workflow and make your life so much easier.
By handing off tasks, such as bookkeeping or album design or photo editing, you can focus on what you do best: Capturing beautiful moments. Outsourcing can also help with time management and turnaround times. Diane, for example, shares about outsourcing her post-production process and how it has allowed her to get final photos to her couples in a fraction of the time it would take her to do it all herself. So, take a cue from Diane and consider outsourcing to decrease your workload. Your business (and mind and body) will thank you!
Diane, a seasoned pro in the wedding photography industry, not only shares her game-changing photography best practices, but she also swears by them! Becoming a successful wedding photographer requires more than just having an eye for great shots. The secret to thriving in this industry lies within your business practices. Whether it’s batch working, finding a mentor, or knowing your photography gear, these steps will help increase efficiency and productivity while allowing you to focus on what really matters: Connecting with your clients and delivering memories for a lifetime.
One of Diane’s tips on best business practices for photographers is outsourcing photo-editing. Thanks to services like ShootDotEdit, Diane can speed up her post-production process and deliver final photos to her clients faster than ever before! Plus, she rests easy knowing that her photos are in good hands. As she says, “It’s worth every penny.” So, why let post-production slow you down? Follow Diane’s lead and get back to doing what you love most! To learn more about Diane Nicole Photography, check out her website, Facebook page, Pinterest, or Instagram.
Do you have too much post-production work to handle? ShootDotEdit can assist you with professional photo editing services to achieve your wedding photography goals, allowing you more time to concentrate on your craft. Check out our pricing plans to see how we can help grow your business.
As a wedding photographer, you are responsible for capturing one of the most important days in someone’s life. And while it’s an incredibly rewarding job, running a successful wedding photography business can be quite challenging. There are so many moving parts, from booking clients to editing photos, marketing your business, and everything in between. That’s why outsourcing in business plays such an important role in your success as a wedding photography business owner.
By outsourcing certain tasks, you can focus on doing what you love most while also growing your business and increasing your revenue. In this conversation with Kristen Lenox, the owner of K. Lenox Photography, she elaborates on why she loves to outsource, her advice for people wanting to start a photography business, and her favorite outsourcing partners. Plus, she shares a profound message for photographers who can’t let go of the control. So, let’s dive in!
While the advantages of outsourcing photo editing are multifold, we are all too familiar with why photographers struggle to take the leap when it comes to outsourcing in business. From added expenses to finding the right partner, it can be tough and, at times, frustrating. But even with the challenges, outsourcing in business is a fantastic business practice to adopt if you want to grow. “Outsourcing costs money, but it opens you up to having more time to do other things,” says Kristen, adding, “For photographers who are trying to let go, it’s hard in the beginning. It’s a learning curve. It takes time to get the style down and right. It took me a while too.”
It’s a natural human tendency for people to want to do everything themselves – especially when it comes to achieving perfection. Kristen herself has been in that position before, and when we ask her what she would say to photographers who’re not ready to give up the control, she replies, “When you’re outsourcing in business, it’s to make your job easier. I struggled with it, and I wish I did it sooner. What I will say is: Give it a chance. There’s going to be a lot of back and forth. There was one point where I almost quit and thought about just doing it myself. But honestly, I am not an editor. I am a photographer. You know how many times I re-edit my own work because I can’t get it the way I like it?” Our guess? Way too many. And according to our math, that’s too many hours spent in front of the computer instead of shooting more weddings or making more social media content, or going the extra mile for your clients. Outsourcing in business is what will enable you to get these hours back; to dedicate this time to truly nurture your business.
So what is the best way to outsource? “Just trust the process. Don’t expect miracles overnight. Don’t expect perfection. I even tell my brides to not expect perfection. Work through it together as a team, and then eventually, it will settle in as part of your workflow. Trust the professionals who edit,” says Kristen, adding, “When I finally decided to let go, and I got back an engagement session, I was like, “Holy s*&%! This looks awesome! This is fantastic.” I let go, and I had time to hang out with friends right after I’d shot a wedding. When I first started, I used to work harder, not smarter. It took me 11 years to start working smarter.” 11 years is a long time, and if you don’t want to wait that long, we’d recommend that you try to outsource a basic task. See how it goes and evaluate what it does for you and your business. If you’re skeptical about outsourcing services, a good outsourcing practice would be to start small.
Kristen’s Favorite Outsourcing Partners
Even though it took her 11 years, Kristen now knows about the outsourcing advantages and outsources various aspects of her photography business, which allows her to have more time to do the things she loves, including scaling up her business, driving her kids around, networking, etc. While blogging and editing were two tasks that consumed most of her time, the light and airy wedding photographer now also outsources other important business tasks to reliable partners such as:
1. Fotoskribe: One of her best investments, outsourcing blogging to Fotoskribe, helped Kristen not only get more consistent with blogging and her social media, but it is also a business process that has led to her getting more inquiries.
2. Showit: Kristen is a Showit girl. And she’s even gotten her friends to switch to this website-building platform. “I’ve been with Showit for years, and I will never stray,” she says.
3. Dubsado: When it comes to CRM (client relationship management), Kristen says she’s tried them all, adding, “They’re all fantastic in their own ways. But I am always trying to improve.” Questionnaires, schedules, contracts – this CRM does it all for her.
4. ClickUp: This photographer loves a good checklist, and she relies on ClickUp for checklists that help her get through her daily tasks.
5. QuickBook: Their mileage tracker is Kristen’s go-to.
6. Fundy: This is what Kristen chooses to design her exquisite wedding albums.
Kristen’s Gear Bag Must-Haves
While every wedding photographer has their favorites when it comes to gear, we enjoy putting them in a tough spot where they’re in a hypothetical situation where they can only and only bring four pieces of gear with them (including the camera body!). When we asked Kristen the same question, she had her answer ready to go!
As someone who switched careers and built her own business from scratch, Kristen’s learned plenty of lessons as a small business owner. So, of course, we had to request Kris to drop some pearls of wisdom for those thinking about entering the world of wedding photography. “Get your ducks in a row. Get legal in your state, sort out your contracts, and make sure you have that done before anything else. Open a business bank account. Get an accountant who can help you with good bookkeeping. And double-check your business name. Make sure it’s not being used by anyone else, and it’s not too similar to anyone else’s,” she explains, adding, “If you’re really going all in, you need to have a website. A Facebook page is not a website. It might be okay at the beginning, but when you’re legitimizing your business, a website is important. You don’t need anything fancy, so don’t let that keep you from creating your webpage. Always remember to charge what you’re worth, and be honest about your skill set. Lastly, invest in a CRM. It’s important to have something to organize your leads and your workflows.”
It’s Never Too Late To Outsource
It took Kristen 11 years to switch to outsourcing in business, and for others, it can take even longer. And that’s okay – it’s our job to make sure that you feel confident and comfortable enough to trust us and rely on us to get you and your clients exactly what is needed. If you are someone who wants to scale their wedding photography business, outsourcing tasks that don’t need your attention is one way to improve efficiency. The list of what jobs can be outsourced is long, but photo editing, culling, blogging, social media management, etc., are just a few business processes you could consider outsourcing right from the start.
Whether you want to take your business to the next level or want to be able to give your 100% attention to each couple, or simply want to spend more time with your family – wedding photo editing outsourcing can be the solution. The best photo editing partners will free up your time to do all this and more – you just have to find the right fit for your business.
If Kristen’s story has inspired you to consider outsourcing your post-production workload, then we’re here to answer your questions and get you the help you seek! Our only aim is to empower wedding photographers to dedicate more time to doing only things they love. To learn more about how we can help you scale up your photography business, check out our pricing plans.
Photography is more than just a hobby for some people. It’s a way of life and a means of creative expression. Our customers at ShootDotEdit are proof of that. They’ve all embarked on a photography career path to turn their passion for photography into a full-time career as wedding photographers. Switching careers to wedding photography isn’t easy, but it’s definitely possible. And these pros have proven that with dedication, hard work, and the right support, you can successfully transition to a wedding photography career you truly love. To celebrate their achievements, this blog features career change success stories of some of our highly-valued clients who changed job descriptions and followed their dreams.
Wedding Photography Pros Who Made The Switch & Never Looked Back
1. From Being A Nurse To A Pro Photographer – Kristen Lenox
Have you ever felt like you’re not doing what you were meant to do? A former geriatric nurse, Kristen Lenox, knew that feeling all too well. She had always been fascinated by photography but never thought it could become a career. That is until she saw firsthand the impact that pictures had on her patients’ lives.
Kristen had always been interested in photography, ever since she was in high school, where she would photograph her friends with her Instamatic Kodak film camera. And it was when she received a Canon Rebel Ti from her husband that her passion for photography really took off.
Inspired by the power of photography, Kristen threw herself into learning everything she could about the creative arts. From online courses and seminars to tons of classes, she was determined to make her dream a reality. Fast forward to today, Kristen is now a successful wedding photographer and the business owner of her brand – K. Lenox Photography. Her journey reminds us that it’s never too late to pursue your passion and follow your dreams.
Flavio DeBarros is the owner of Flavio D Photography, and his career change success story is a true inspiration for anyone looking to make a switch. He went from being a self-taught engineer in the mobile phone industry for over seven years to a pro wedding photographer. It all started with a simple family favor, where he photographed his cousin’s children and uploaded the pictures on Facebook. From there, he received a request to photograph someone else’s family, and after that, there was no looking back for Flavio.
Realizing his passion for photography was still there, Flavio knew he needed a structured classroom environment to pursue it further. He enrolled in a two-year part-time program in photography at the Boston University Center for Digital Imaging Arts, which proved to be the turning point in his photography career path.
Meet Diane, a seasoned professional in the wedding industry and owner of Diane Nicole Photography with more than 18 years of experience under her belt. Her journey began as a talented caterer but quickly evolved into something even more magical. It all started when a friend asked her to shoot their wedding in Florida, and from there, Diane was hooked. When she moved to Chico, CA, she began photographing more weddings for friends and soon discovered her love for capturing the joy, laughter, and love at weddings. Despite her initial fear, Diane worked hard and honed her skills, eventually charging what she was worth as a talented wedding photographer.
Natalie and Brandon are a power couple with a passion for wedding photography. The dynamic husband and wife photography team based in Las Vegas run their business, Studio N Photography, which specializes in weddings and engagements. Natalie’s love for photography ignited at a young age, and after photographing her first wedding on film, she knew she had found her calling. She went on to study commercial photography at the Community College of Southern Nevada and launched her website soon after graduation in 2008.
As for Brandon, he started his construction career, but when he met Natalie, he quickly discovered his passion for photography. He began second shooting for Natalie and eventually decided to dive deeper into the craft by taking the same photography course she did and to gain experience. The couple’s shared love for each other and for capturing love stories fuels their work every day. At Studio N Photography, they don’t just take pictures – they are true storytellers of love.
Brandi Salerno’s photography career began after she graduated from Texas State University with a degree in photography in 2009. At first, she was hesitant to do weddings and opted for portraiture. But after her wedding in 2011, she fell in love with her wedding photographer, who she saw as a celebrity.
When the photographer was looking for a second shooter, Brandi jumped at the opportunity and worked with her for several years, shooting about 100 weddings. This experience gave her the confidence to start shooting weddings on her own, transitioning to a full-time wedding photographer and owning her very own photography business – Brandi Allyse Photo. Brandi’s story proves that taking risks and stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to a successful photography career path.
Jorge Santiago’s photography career path is a true success story worth reading. Growing up in a small town outside of Oaxaca City in the south of Mexico, he discovered his passion for photography at the age of 15 through a program that introduced photography to rural communities. He spent countless hours developing and enlarging images in a darkroom, which became a major part of his photography education. Jorge knew that photography was his calling, and despite getting a business degree, he went straight to work as a photographer for a newspaper and then as a photography museum darkroom manager.
He later moved to China with his wife for a year, but they eventually moved to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. However, since his English was “very basic”, Jorge had a tough time finding a job that he liked. So he started his own wedding photography business, Jorge Santiago Photography. He booked ten weddings in his first year, and from there, it became his full-time job.
Jorge’s passion for photography and determination to succeed allowed him to build a successful wedding photography business in a new country. He continues to capture beautiful moments for his clients while staying true to his identity as a photographer.
Erin Morrison, chai tea lover and pro wedding photographer, fell in love with photography after being amazed by her own wedding photographers. On her website, she shares, “I thought that what they did was pretty darn cool, and I felt like it would be the perfect creative outlet for me.” She couldn’t stop talking to her husband, James, about it, and he finally surprised her with her first camera! That moment changed everything.
Erin is now the proud owner of Erin Morrison Photography. She has photographed over 300 weddings, capturing some of the most special moments of couples’ lives. But that’s not the only impressive feat she’s achieved – Erin has also consumed over 1700 chai teas!
Erin’s journey is proof that if you have a passion for something, it’s worth pursuing. If you have the determination to make it work, starting something new at any point in life can lead to success. Erin’s story will inspire you to take that leap of faith and pursue your dreams.
Heather and Terrence’s story is also about successfully making a career change. Heather, an artist at heart, never considered her talent a viable career option. However, photography was part of her native skill set and interest. As she started experimenting and doing more photography, she got recognized for her work and began photographing people on the sideline. Heather went to Columbia for her Masters in photography and art education, which led her to work at a high-end e-commerce studio and fashion shoots. She learned much from working under the right people and absorbing all that information.
On the other hand, Terrance, who had a talent for writing, dabbled in copywriting while studying political science and philosophy. But his love for spoken word poetry brought him to New York City. Here, he met Heather while both were bartending on the Upper West Side. That moment sparked a fire that led to the birth of Apollo Fields. This unique wedding photography business delivers stunning wedding photographs and offers a poetic representation of a couple’s relationship and their wedding day as a gift after the wedding.
Stephanie Heymann’s love for photography began at a young age, thanks to her father’s classic 35mm Canon Camera. She vividly remembers holding a flower next to her face while her father clicked her picture. Even though her dad was not a photographer, he inspired her to pursue photography. During high school, Stephanie spent much time in the darkroom and was always interested in photography.
In her Featured Photographer interview, she told us, “I had a teaching degree and worked at a magazine where I seemed to always be on the photo shoot. So photography was just always bubbling and simmering.” Eventually, she decided to jump into photography with both feet and never looked back. Her hard work and determination paid off, and her photography career took off right away.
Stephanie’s photography style evolved over the years. She started with families, headshots, and babies but quickly realized that she had a deeper love for weddings. Today, she spends most of her time shooting weddings, but also does Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, senior photos, and family portraits. Stephanie’s passion for photography started with a simple click of a camera and has led her on a successful photography career path.
These are a few examples of the several talented photographers who have succeeded in their photography career path and the wedding photography industry. Their career change stories are inspiring and prove that pursuing one’s passions can yield powerful results. We continue to be inspired by the amount of hard work these professionals put into their art as well as their businesses, and we love to see them thrive and grow each day. We hope these stories from our customers inspire you and you get the confidence to take the leap to pursue your dreams.
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you grow your wedding photography business. A part of how we do that is by lessening your post-production workload with our professional photo editing services. To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
As an artist, you have to both nurture your creative side and manage the business aspects of the profession. This is especially true for wedding photographers, who require a unique combination of artistry and business acumen to succeed. In our latest Featured Photographer series, we interview Brandi Salerno, a ShootDotEdit customer and the owner of Dallas-based wedding photography brand Brandi Allyse Photo, who has successfully navigated this balancing act.
In this interview, Brandi, who admits that it was not in her “nature to be a businesswoman”, shares her journey as an artist and entrepreneur, offering insights into how she’s mastered both ends of the service industry. From her transition from a portrait photographer to second shooting weddings and establishing her own business to the various gear and tools that have helped her along the way – join us as we unpack and celebrate Brandi’s incredible achievements.
The Becoming Of Brandi Allyse Photo
ShootDotEdit: Tell us about your story. How did you get started? And how was Brandi Allyse Photo born?
Brandi: I went to Texas State University and graduated in 2009 with a degree in photography. Initially, I was reluctant to do weddings, as it just seemed like a daunting world, and so I stuck to portraits. I did portraiture for about 3 years because that felt safe and did not make me anxious!
After I got married in 2011, I was just in love with my wedding photographer! She was like a celebrity to me. There was this time when she was looking for a second shooter, and so I reached out to her and asked if I could second shoot for her, which I then did for several years. I actually shot about 100 weddings with her. And this experience gave me the confidence to start shooting weddings on my own and go full-time with it.
ShootDotEdit: Any budding wedding photographers reading this, make a note! So what was it about your experience of being photographed as a bride that changed your mind and made you want to try photographing weddings?
Brandi: So, for my wedding, I regret this now, but at the time, I didn’t hire a wedding planner. Even though I had a wedding coordinator, I planned my whole wedding. It was stressful at times, but I really did enjoy the wedding world, and just planning the wedding got me all excited! And again, my photographer was just like such a celebrity, and she only did weddings, so it was kind of like any chance to work with her no matter what she was doing. I wanted to be able to learn from her. Even if she was doing portrait stuff, I would have asked to assist her.
ShootDotEdit: Were there any big moment(s) while you were second shooting that stood out to you as particularly meaningful or even made you recognize the value of it all?
Brandi: I learned a lot being the second shooter and witnessing my photographer’s skills and expertise in action! I was so impressed by how quickly and professionally she was able to direct her clients. She knew just what she needed from them and was able to get it done in a timely manner.
A lot of times at weddings, we are working on a timeline and sometimes a very tight one, and so it was amazing to watch her just so professionally go about a day, stick to those timelines, and still get those amazing portraits. I learned a lot about posing and prompting from her. Seeing her move through the wedding day gracefully and confidently without ever seeming stressed or overwhelmed definitely made me learn a lot.
I am incredibly passionate about second shooting for weddings. For someone who is specifically wanting to get into the wedding industry but does not really know how to get started, I would say shoot weddings and learn! Whether you’re second shooting weddings, reaching out to people for second shoots, or even assisting photographers, just watching somebody and getting the learning experience is incredibly useful! You can observe the flow of a day, what can sometimes go wrong, how timelines can shift, and how to be assertive in the middle of all of the wedding day chaos.
ShootDotEdit: Prior to shooting on your own, was she the only other person you assisted?
Brandi: Oh yes, she was absolutely incredible! Simply observing her helped me understand time frames for different things, and how she did it is definitely something that I have taken into my business. I learned her way of laying out a timeline, and I was comfortable with it, so I kind of mimicked and changed into my own. It’s wild that she has now been a second shooter to me a couple of times! The first time she did, it felt like life was coming to a full circle – I was overwhelmed with emotion.
ShootDotEdit: Wow! A classic “the student has become the master” situation! So Brandi, now that you’re a full-time Dallas wedding photographer, when you look back on your journey, is there anything that you would have done differently?
Brandi: I think my whole photography journey has just been very well played out. I have talked about this a lot that it’s very much a confidence thing, and you have to have a lot of confidence to shoot a wedding, in my opinion. Some people know how to work the camera and go right into shooting weddings, but that wasn’t the case for me. Each step of my photographic experience was like building a puzzle piece. From the Texas wedding photographers I worked with to the places I visited, this journey that has brought me to where I am today has been an incredible adventure. I think I wouldn’t do anything differently because each step was like a part of building the confidence that I needed. Looking back now, I wouldn’t want any part of this adventure differently, as all of it has been essential in forming who I am today.
Business Lessons With Brandi Allyse Photo
ShootDotEdit: You have a successful wedding photography business now, but did you already have the business side of things intact before you got into it full-time?
Brandi: Although I had a basic understanding of the business, it has been quite a learning process because it was not my nature to be a businesswoman. Thankfully, I had the help of my husband, who is an accountant and could provide me with sound advice when making decisions about pricing for customers – something which seemed daunting at first given that everyone around me was familiar. He has always encouraged me and pushed me to make better business choices. Eventually, I have become more comfortable navigating these challenges, so now I can confidently manage all aspects of running my business as a Texas wedding photographer.
ShootDotEdit: Since you’ve had quite a journey as a photographer, for those looking to break into the world of wedding photography, is there anything they should be prepared or watch out for?
Brandi: Whether you are full-time wedding photographers in Dallas or anywhere in the world, shooting weddings can be incredibly labor-intensive with the amount of photos that must be edited afterward. From managing your cards carefully to ensuring redundancy is removed in the process, it’s important to consider each step – from photo culling and editing all the way through to backup planning. The time commitment here cannot be overstated. Between taking AND processing photos comes plenty of effort!
I was doing it pretty much all by myself with a couple of software when I was doing only portraits. I had Lightroom, and I had a service to deliver images, but other than that I was doing everything myself. But now that I am doing full-time weddings, I realized that it’s okay and encouraged to use resources for help like ShootDotEdit! I say this a lot of times – ShootDotEdit saved my business. Using different software and investing in really good ones to create a better client experience is something that I think it’s huge. The more I shot and the busier I became, I realized that it’s so helpful to use your resources wisely!
ShootDotEdit: Saying that with every amazing photo comes equally amazing gear might not be 100% true, but we know wedding photographers love good tech. So what are you currently using for shooting weddings?
Brandi: I’m a proud Canon user, and currently, I own two of its R6s. For lenses, I acquired a few new ones, like the R50mm and R70-200. And to any 50mm fans, I know you love the L series 50 mm using the adapter, but for me, there’s never been a better purchase! It’s like nothing else I’ve ever used before, and it’s just amazing!
ShootDotEdit: So, let’s make this a little tougher. If you had to bring only three lenses to document a wedding, which ones would make it to your wedding photography gear bag?
Brandi: My first pick would be the 50mm lens. Next on my list is the 35mm. For the final pick, I would say the 100 macro because that could also be used as a portrait lens. It can be used in the ceremony even though it doesn’t have a low aperture. But it also gives you the detail shots you can’t get anywhere else.
ShootDotEdit: Really! So no zoom in your quiver?
Brandi: Not if I had to! Because my 7200 is only for the ring ceremony. So yes, I could live without it and would go with the 100 macro instead.
ShootDotEdit: Tell us about your lighting techniques. Do you usually prefer to use a flash for lighting, or do you tend to lean more toward ambient light?
Brandi: For receptions, I rely on my Neewer flash from Amazon to light up the room for me. I have used these flashes for years, and they are so much better than any other flash that I have used. They are very well-priced too! Sometimes, I will do the flash on camera and sync another one on a tripod to get some side lighting. The only other lighting I use is a panel light for the exit and not a flash because just in case it misfires. You are shooting a lot in the exit, so I use a panel light that has a hot shoe mount to my camera.
Powering Business Operations With Strategic Investment
ShootDotEdit: Are there any software that you rely on for a seamless workflow or impeccable client experience?
Brandi: At the beginning of a process with the client, I use HoneyBook, which is an amazing customer relationship management (CRM) software. It helps me streamline my customer interactions, and with each customer inquiry, it creates a project where I can send them invoices, brochures, contracts, questionnaires, and so on. Everything is tailored to my brand, and every project can be customized according to the individual customer’s needs. It’s like having a digital database but with extra features like automated milestones for customers’ journeys. I can also use contracts that include phone numbers, addresses, emails, and something else – timelines! I personally don’t use the timeline feature of HoneyBook, but the option is there if required. Additionally, when dealing with new customers, I find it really helpful to send out fun questionnaires or brochures just for information gathering purposes. Lastly, contracts are always necessary too.
ShootDotEdit: Any other software that helps you free up time or just offer a 5-star customer service?
Brandi: I use Lightroom to edit my photos. ShootDotEdit has occasionally culled for me, but I also have Photo Mechanic for culling. I know of people who still cull as they edit in Lightroom, and it’s just not a time-efficient approach. To deliver my galleries to clients, I use Pic-Time, which offers a variety of features. I also rely on a range of apps like Canva and Unfold to create aesthetically pleasing visual content that helps enhance my brand presence online, like on social media.
A Stress-Free Post-Production Workflow With ShootDotEdit
ShootDotEdit: Could you share the rhythm of your workflow and how outsourcing photo editing, specifically color correction, has benefitted you? Are there any unique elements in your process that have proved successful in your routine?
Brandi: I usually cull with Photo Mechanic before submitting to ShootDotEdit. I send everything to you guys and get it back. I still do spend a few hours on a wedding, correcting a few things here and there or going over and hitting the blemishes and smoothing a couple of points that I know that my clients were self-conscious about on the day of.
Something that I love and is something I would do even if I was just getting that out of it, honestly, is the reception photos with crazy DJ lights changing every two seconds. You know that when you are looking at 300 of those, and you can’t do a copy and paste to each one because one is blue, and then one is purple, and then one is green and red. So, to not have to worry about the reception images at all and receiving them flawlessly edited, perfectly white-balanced without needing to be concerned about the individual variations – that has been an incredible and time-saving experience.
ShootDotEdit: Yours is also a really great example of the fact that outsourcing doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing situation. Many photographers will assume it’s about letting go 100%, but it’s okay to save 80% of your time and use that 20% to do your own thing – whatever that may be. How have you found value in outsourcing that specific part of the job?
Brandi: It’s the time I’m saving that makes all the difference. When taking on a wedding, editing over 1,000 photos in such a short timeframe would be impossible for most people – even perfectionists! Yet with ShootDotEdit, it now takes me only a few hours to get an entire wedding done once it’s been delivered. That immense value is something you won’t find elsewhere!
We’ve always been huge admirers of Brandi and her work (Brandi Allyse Photo). Her artistic vision and distinctive brand never fail to impress us, and we take every opportunity to applaud her talent and accomplishments. Brandi’s story is a testament to the saying, “you’ll never know unless you try”. Despite initially feeling intimidated by the wedding industry, she persevered and has since become one of the most highly sought-after wedding photographers in the field. Also, even though she did say that she was never a natural businessperson, we continue to be impressed with how Brandi has managed to build a thriving wedding photography business that also supports other entrepreneurs, a concept that we are absolutely here for!
Brandi, we are so grateful for you sharing your inspiring story with us. We are honored to be able to take away some of the stress that comes with being a wedding photographer, and we take great pride in assisting exceptional professionals like you elevate their businesses. Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your journey! You can check out Brandi’s work on her Instagram, Facebook, or website.
At ShootDotEdit, we share our clients’ stories with you to inspire and demonstrate the power of outsourcing. If photo editing has become a tedious process for you, then it’s time to let us lighten your workload! To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
Have you ever considered showcasing what goes on behind the scenes (BTS) during a wedding shoot? If not, it might be time to hop on this trend! Behind-the-scenes wedding photography has become super popular lately because it offers a unique and intimate glimpse into the creative process of wedding photography. Not only does sharing behind-the-scenes content give your audience and potential clients a better understanding of what they can expect on their wedding day, but it’s also a great way for them to see you in action. This can help build trust and establish a personal connection with your clients before the wedding even takes place. But here’s the catch – you need to make sure your behind-the-scenes photography content is engaging and authentic. And that’s what our ideas could help you with!
5 Ways To Create Behind-The-Scenes Wedding Photography Content
In today’s world, visual content reigns supreme on social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. And as a wedding photographer, you can leverage your behind-the-scenes footage by turning it into social media content! We all know that photographers behind the scenes do a lot more than what makes it to their website or Instagram, or Pinterest. But the truth is, your potential clients and existing followers are going to absolutely love getting a glimpse inside your work days. Here are a few ideas you could consider working on:
1. Behind-The-Scenes Video Content For Reels And TikTok
TikTok and Instagram Reels are two of the most widely-used video platforms out there! Not only are they great for entertainment, but they are also a fantastic source for learning new things. You could leverage these short-form video formats to create engaging content that showcases your skills. Consider highlighting the behind-the-scenes process of setting up key wedding details such as the rings, the wedding dress, veil, bouquets, etc. You can later reveal the final look through your photos.
Videos that show the pre-wedding preparations can be a great way to give a BTS look at the process. Show your audience how you communicate with your clients, pack your photography gear, or set up equipment. Remember, you don’t want to bore your audience with continuous footage. Instead, simply share snippets or sneak peeks of you doing your thing!
Note: If you’re planning to post some fun Instagram Reels or TikTok videos, be mindful of what you’re sharing. You definitely don’t want to reveal the bride in her dress before the ceremony! This is a big no-no that can potentially offend the couple and put a damper on their overall wedding experience.
If you own a YouTube channel, recording and posting interview sessions with your couples is a great way to offer more insights into your work. This is a great opportunity to share stories that don’t make it to the final album. If you want to give it a try, have an assistant or a friend help you out with the recording process. You want to create a comfortable space where the couple feels at ease and ask them questions like how they met and what they love about each other. And don’t forget to ask why they chose you as their wedding photographer! This is a great opportunity to get some video testimonials!
It’s a great way to personalize your YouTube wedding photography channel and feature your clients on it as well. The key is to keep the conversation natural and relaxed without overthinking or scripting too much. Just go with the flow and let the conversation guide itself.
3. Feature Your Teammates
Lights, camera, teamwork! The magic of a real wedding can only be captured through the collaborative efforts of a talented team of professionals. So it’s essential to shine a spotlight on the skilled individuals who contribute to your triumphs! Sharing captivating features across Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn can showcase the creative minds behind the shoot. You could also consider offering a glimpse into your team’s collaboration, camaraderie, and team-building activities. This enriching, behind-the-scenes wedding photography content invites your audience to not only admire the final product but also appreciate the teamwork, leadership, and dedication that bring each spectacular wedding photograph to life.
Your home office or studio is where all the magic of your wedding photography comes to life. And what better way to showcase that magic than by giving your audience a behind-the-scenes wedding photography tour of your workspace? During the tour, you can discuss your working environment, your workflow, the equipment and software you rely on, and any upgrades you’ve recently made. This can give aspiring wedding photographers a quick glance into what they can purchase and include in their own work environment.
Additionally, showcasing your office setup can also give clients an understanding of how professional and organized you are. It’s the perfect way to demonstrate the value behind choosing you over any other wedding photographer. Show your brand values and give a positive first impression by displaying any awards or accomplishments you have received in the background. The more they know about you, the more they can trust and appreciate your work and book you for their special day.
5. Create Tutorials + Instructional Videos
One of the best ways to share behind-the-scenes wedding photography content is to turn them into mini-tutorials that offer wedding photography tips to fellow wedding photographers. But remember: The trick is to keep it short, educational, and entertaining. For example: If you’re photographing a couple who has a significant height difference, you could tell people the specific things you keep in mind or how you pose them to take the focus away from the height difference. Similarly, you could also give tips on how to photograph couples who hate posing in front of the camera or tips for photographing weddings with pets.
For potential clients or customers, you could consider creating content that they can use. For example: Some tips on how to stay sane while planning a wedding, or you could share some of your favorite vendors or offer tips on how to pose confidently. To do this, set your phone or camera on a tripod (or simply hold your phone at a flattering angle) and tutor away!
Wedding photography is so much more than just delivering quality snaps on the big day. Showcasing behind-the-scenes content provides an exclusive insight into your creative process and expertise, letting clients get to know you better; inspiring trust in the services that they will receive. Plus, it’s a great way of demonstrating how passionate and driven you are about providing exceptional service too! Whether it’s a quick time-lapse video of you setting up a shot, a fun boomerang of you and your team getting ready for the big day, or a series of photos showcasing your equipment and setup, there are so many ways to turn your behind-the-scenes footage into engaging social media content!
At ShootDotEdit, we are passionate about helping you hone your craft! And we help with that by taking editing off your plate with our professional photo editing services, giving you more time to learn new skills. To learn more about how we can help your wedding photography business, check out our pricing plans.
A wedding is full of hustle and bustle! And as a wedding photographer, your job entails finding the perfect moments in the middle of all the chaos, which sometimes means using a bunch of wedding photography poses that seamlessly tell a story. Different poses can add depth and emotions by bringing out the scene’s unique characteristics while capturing the connection between your clients and their guests. But it could be challenging to hit the bull’s eye with wedding poses, especially with ten people staring at you for posing directions. Don’t worry! This ultimate guide to wedding photography poses offers plenty of options that you could pull out in any situation!
Wedding photography poses are an excellent way for you to help artistically tell your client’s stories in a way that goes beyond the action captured in the moment. A good wedding pose has the potential to narrate not only the relationship between the subjects but also the emotions of the day and the story in the frame. Using several unique wedding photography poses, you can create a natural setting, empowering couples to show off their bond and their personalities.
1. Best Tips For Posing
Working around different wedding photography tips and ideas, such as selecting poses that convey intimacy or dynamic movement, can help bring your clients’ stories to life. You can also incorporate creative wedding photo ideas that reflect the couple’s personalities into the wedding photo poses. Here are a few tips to help you with that:
Recreate special moments. Consider planning your couple’s poses around special moments or locations that hold significance to them, and be sure to capture those with creative positioning.
Be a minimalist. Don’t overdo it! Keep the poses natural with slight adjustments to ensure your subject’s personalities shine through each photo.
A personalized approach. Use different posing cues with different clients. Find what works for them and focus on helping them feel confident as they stand in front of the camera.
Be attentive. Pay special attention to lighting (especially natural light), angles, and body movement – elements that can make or break your photo.
Our tip: Guiding your subjects on how to pose for pictures can be both a creative challenge and an exciting opportunity. By promoting natural, relaxed, and confident appearances in front of the camera, you can flaunt your expertise in posing – good posing skills set seasoned photographers apart from amateurs.
Since wedding photography poses are an integral part of your photography, it’s crucial to plan them in advance to ensure they align with your timeline. Traditional posing tips for photographing weddings include shots with the couple holding hands, a photo of the bride’s dress details and veil, close-up shots of the couple, and group pictures with family and friends.
Many couples today prefer a more authentic look in their wedding photos, which can include candid moments and simple wedding poses that reflect their unique personalities.
There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to wedding photography poses, so tailor your wedding photography shot list according to your clients’ preferences and tastes! With a little planning and some creative ideas for wedding photo poses, you can capture stunning wedding photos that express each couple’s unique love story – in their style.
Wedding Photography Posing Ideas
Image Credit: ShootDotEdit Customer @loversoflove
You could put together a list of wedding photography pose ideas and share your wedding photography poses list with your couple in advance so, if needed, they could make their own changes. Consider using a posing guide to stay more organized, productive, and creative on the wedding day. This way, you can direct all of your attention to creating truly beautiful pictures instead of stressing over possible wedding posing ideas on the spot. Here’s our wedding photography pose inspiration for your subjects on the wedding day:
It is essential to focus on different poses and photography styles that make for interesting shots alongside showcasing the groom’s true personality and character. Start by understanding the groom’s story and how to convey it through your lens. Using the groom’s unique personality traits, you can create the perfect pose that can make each photo pop. Even something as simple as placing one hand into a pocket while looking off into the distance or simply looking into the camera while flashing a big smile can make for meaningful and memorable wedding day photos of the groom.
There are some customary poses that grooms often adopt during photo shoots, such as posing with a classic car, holding a cigar or bowtie, or leaning against a wall or window frame. However, if you wish to infuse some creativity into these classic poses, you can try photographing the groom from different angles.
Some people might not agree, but let’s be honest, the bride is more or less the star of the day, making taking her solo shots a very important part of the day. While you could always capture some candids, it’s best to keep a shot list with a bunch of poses for the bride handy. To achieve this, try experimenting with angles, close-up shots, body posture, movement, and direction of light. For the best bridal portraits, you could try checking out these bridal portrait posing techniques.
To truly highlight the beauty of the bride on her big day, positioning her against a backdrop can make for elegantly framed photos. You can ask your bride to stand, kneel or even sit for the photo. Some popular posing techniques for brides include the use of pattern posing, where one limb is placed close up against another, hands positioned gracefully on their waist or just holding onto their accessories. Try incorporating props or the bridal bouquet or veil to create interesting juxtapositions, or try positioning her in ways that emphasize her facial features and wedding dress. .
Our tip: When shooting bridal portraits, it is important to maintain natural and relaxed poses to bring the photos of the bride and her attire to life. Don’t forget to focus on creative cropping techniques such as close-ups and multi-frame shots.
Photographing couples on their wedding day is more or less your key focus area. To ensure stunning results, it’s important to guide couples on how to pose for a wedding photo naturally to bring their genuine emotions and connection during the shoot. Following are a few unique wedding photography posing tips for the couple:
Positioning matters. One of the common techniques is posing your couples during their most intimate moments, such as during a passionate kiss or gazing romantically into each other’s eyes. When capturing such shots, paying attention to how the couple is positioned is important.
Capture the intimacy. Think of romantic wedding couple poses such as an under-the-veil shot, a forehead kiss, standing hand-in-hand, dancing, etc.
Play with surroundings. Take advantage of your surroundings by taking photos featuring the couple surrounded by majestic trees in the woods or expansive indoor pictures at a church with striking architectural elements.
Lighting. Experimenting with backlighting or using a thin light source at low angles assists in creating silhouettes that capture magical moments.
Keep it fun. Don’t hesitate to suggest fun and easy wedding poses, such as having the groom carry the bride in his arms or an impromptu dance session in the garden!
Mixing pre-planned poses with candid shots can bring out the best in couples and allow them to be natural and organic in front of the camera.
Photos with bridesmaids are special moments to capture, and one of your priorities should be to have the photos showcase their bond. For the group poses, you can have the bride along with her squad standing in a single line and looking into the camera, or you could also try something fun and creative like having the bridesmaids hype the bride or have them hold their bouquets behind them while you photograph them from the back to bring out the details.
You can introduce creative ideas for bridesmaids group shots by adding props such as floral hoops and arranging the group in a triangle or half moons – all of which look stunning on camera. By carefully positioning each bridesmaid in the frame with colorful complementary hues, your images will look absolutely stunning while bringing out the love between the ladies.
To capture memorable photos of the groomsmen, try to focus on unique posing techniques to emphasize their personalities and relationship with the groom. While natural and relaxed poses are often preferred, there is still ample opportunity to incorporate traditional and creative ideas to make truly remarkable photos.
Trends such as all matching outfits or including meaningful props can not only help in making the photos unique but also eye-pleasing. You can also try incorporating fun props for more personal photographs. While a shot list is always good to have, make sure you capture natural expressions during candid interactions, even while posing.
When it comes to capturing those precious, tender moments with family members on a wedding day, preparation and creativity are crucial. This involves considering different posing techniques for family photos, including group shots of the bride and groom, their closest friends and advisors, and even larger extended family gatherings.
Cherish tradition. Traditional poses, such as having the bride and groom stand side-by-side with their parents or large group shots with all the extended family members, offer timeless images.
Capture authenticity. While capturing the moments of celebration, try including motions in your poses, such as hugs and laughter, as well as having some close-up shots.
Keep surprising. Some creative ideas include surprise first looks with parents or other relatives or capturing the family having the time of their lives on the dance floor during the reception.
When photographing a couple with a noticeable height difference, varying the angles can help you create beautiful portraits. Try positioning the taller partner behind the shorter one, this can add balance to the image. Another technique is having both partners stand on different levels to create interesting angles and perspectives. To enhance the sense of intimacy, try out posing couples to lean in towards each other, which can also help minimize the height difference from certain angles. Posing couples with a height difference need not be tricky – remember, the photograph is documenting their love and not the height.
2. Posing Camera-Shy Couples
When working with a shy or awkward couple, it’s good to be mindful of their needs and make an extra effort to make them feel comfortable in front of the camera. You can start by creating a relaxed environment by including plenty of candid shots and trying to leave room for spontaneity. If you are still struggling to get the desired photos, consider ditching your posing list and go with prompts like whispering secrets, exchanging hugs, or even taking a walk as you’re shooting – this will not only help loosen them up but add some fun and energy to your photos!
The way a couple or guests are posed in a photo speaks more about their attitude and confidence than the positioning of their hands or how wide the smile is. Being a professional, remember your subjects are probably relying on you for their confidence, so make them feel at home. It’s good to communicate in a comforting tone, make posing fun, and, most importantly, let them know exactly what you want them to do! As you learn how to pose wedding clients with confidence, try finding poses that look good to you and establish an emotional connection with your subjects.
4. Don’t Force A Pose
When posing couples together, focus on displaying a genuine and unforced expression that demonstrates their authentic bond. The idea is to keep the poses relaxed yet intimate, romantic, and fun. You can encourage them to move closer together, hold hands or gaze into each other’s eyes. To up the cuteness quotient, just make them laugh! Choose scenic backgrounds and experiment with different angles for a unique touch. If there’s something they are not comfortable with, don’t force them into it just because it will be an amazing shot. Listen to what they want.
When posing a group, look for ways to create an intriguing layering effect while ensuring everyone appears relaxed and involved. For fun wedding group poses, start with a larger group and then encourage smaller clusters of people (such as couples, bridesmaids, groomsmen, family members) to interact naturally. Incorporating props that match the theme or event can add a whimsical element to the shot – think bouquets, signs, or confetti – while also providing visual interest.
By using different photography techniques, coupled with a keen eye for detail and balanced composition, it’s possible to craft timeless memories that not only reflect your clients’ preferences but also showcase your creative vision. Moreover, incorporating interesting angles and layers in your photographs can make them more eye-catching and even enable you to keep up with the latest wedding photography trends. The suggested poses work wonderfully both indoors and outdoors, making them a great photo choice for any wedding. It’s a good idea to discuss them during pre-wedding consultations with your couples so you can incorporate all the desired elements within the fixed timeline on the big day.
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