Behind the Lens: A day in the life as a wedding Photographer

Before the wedding day even starts the photographer has an important role before the big day. This all starts from the day the bride and groom books me as their photographer.

Before the wedding we will do an engagement session, plan the shot list for the wedding, a timeline (with the help of planner if one is hired), and LOTS of time chatting about the details of the big day.

A few days before the wedding I make sure that all my batteries are charged, I’ve cleared my cards, I’ve chatted with the 2nd shooter, I’ve confirmed the timeline with my bride and groom, and my gas tank is full.

Sleep, hydration, and food is a must for me. Always 100%.

Before I get ready for the day I lay out all my gear I will need - cards, 2 cameras, multiple lens, fanny pack, chargers, batteries, flash, etc. I check my flat lay box with details I’ll need . I also read over the timeline for the 100th time to make sure that I’m on track.

I don’t rush. I leave enough time for any last minute hiccups.

I typically arrive to the venue 30-45 minutes ahead of time. Why? I like to greet the bride, get any last minute requests, scout out the venue for locations, and get my gear ready. Sometimes the 2nd shooter will arrive at the same time as me, if not then they will be there a few hours after I arrive.

As the timeline starts we stay on track and make any adjustments as needed.

As the evening comes to a close I get those last minute photos, tell the bride and groom bye, collect the cards from my 2nd shooter shooter and label them, and pack up my gear for my ride home.

Once I’m home I back up all the pictures to not only 1 hard drive but 2. Always 2. My cards go in a safe place while I edit the wedding day and do not get deleted until the gallery is delivered.

While every wedding day is different, it’s always fun and the memories stick with me for a lifetime!