There’s never been a more challenging time to be a photographer, in my opinion.

Me in action at a wedding!

The continuing fall in prices of good digital cameras has turned just about everybody into would-be photographers. Whilst that’s great and no one more than me likes cheaper camera gear, it has a knock-on-effect of sometimes  ‘devaluing‘ the work of us seasoned pros. There’s a temptation for many to think that it’s ‘easy’ to be a talented professional photographer. Lots try and some succeed, but what I find is often lacking, is the skill of dealing with people. And how do I know this?… From the many stories that friends, customers and members of the clergy tell me about photographers who don’t behave appropriately (to put it politely).

It’s imperative to have a photographer who works as discretely, politely and sensitively as possible, especially during the ceremony, if you don’t want the big day to be remembered for all the wrong reasons. Don’t forget that the photographer is usually a very visible person at a wedding or event. He or she needs to be alert, organised, ‘in control‘, assertive (when necessary) and friendly throughout. In a group photo, there’s ALWAYS at least one person who will try to hide! There’s nothing worse than a partly obscured face peeping out from behind someone else. It effectively spoils the photo, if the photographer can’t spot and coax them out! I spend a lot of time doing this. That said, it’s not wise to over-labour the point whether repositioning someone or trying to get them to smile. Some people are very self concious in front of a camera and it’s not a good idea to embarrass or worse still, publicly humiliate them. Unless of course you are dealing with someone who is rude and drunk, in which case go for it, but remember to duck before they take a swing!!

Most people don’t really enjoy being photographed, which is why my style is to have a bit of banter with my subjects, put them at ease, make them laugh and keep them engaged. In a nutshell, make photography fun! Let them have a bit of fun too on occasions. Children especially love this ‘permission to let your hair down’ tactic.

Having a bit of fun!

It’s usually best to do this once the more ‘formal’ shots are ‘in the bag’! You may even grab a great natural shot, as well as win them over.

Never forget to enjoy it yourself. To be a good photographer you need to be passionate about what you are doing and let it show, whatever your strength and particular niche is. When you’re working with people, if they see that you enjoying it, they are more likely to do the same. Sometimes a photographer will be worrying about the next (or last) shot or the time or the weather, but try not to let it show and if you do (we’re all human), make light of it.

These are all skills which aren’t printed in your camera manual and may take many years to get right. I guess for some, it never really works. Having the most creative skills and superb camera knowledge just doesn’t wash if your subjects look uncomfortable, because they don’t like you.

I hope you have enjoyed my thoughts. COMING SOON: Tips on choosing the right photographer for your wedding or event…