Wedding Photography Equipment Considerations

Photography Tips  •  Wedding Photography

Whether you’re just breaking onto the wedding photography scene or you’ve already made a start, it’s important to remember weddings are a BIG responsibility. They are demanding (both physically and mentally), fast-paced, and highly unpredictable. However, most importantly, you only get one shot. There is no redo, so you have to be prepared. To ensure you have the proper gear when you set out, remember these important wedding photography equipment considerations.

photo by Emily Hanna

Lighting

Most weddings take place indoors—and in most cases, dimly lit venues. This is an important aspect to remember when preparing your gear and during the shoot. While you may think you need every accessory under the sun for your camera, a few good lenses and multiple flash units will keep your photography options available no matter where you’re shooting.

Camera

Determining the best camera for your wedding photography depends on a few facts; first and foremost, your budget. However, if money was not option; a good choice would be a full frame body. These cameras offer low-noise capabilities, higher ISO (up to 3200), and you can raise the shutter speed two more stops. Whatever you choose, always make sure your camera is capable of handling efficiently during low light settings.

photo by Ly Thien Hoang (Lee)

Lenses

When picking lenses, you should keep in mind the same low-lighting considerations. Many professionals use a wide aperture (starting around an f/1.2) to create better quality photographs for the softer lighting conditions. However, the 24–70mm f/2.8 lens is used so much it was dubbed the “wedding lens.” Make sure to take a mixture of different lenses, including both zoom and prime options, as well as a wide aperture lens, wide-angle zoom, macro lens, fisheye lens, and if possible, a telephoto. Only you can determine what will work best for you, but this short list will set you up with a nice variety for both the wedding and the reception.

photo by Chụp Ảnh Cưới Đà Lạt

Other Things to Consider

The best motto to follow when determining your wedding photography equipment is to always expect anything and everything to happen. Be prepared for the worst conditions, and don’t forget these extra considerations:

• Backup Camera. Always bring a spare camera (including accessories, if it cannot use the same ones). It doesn’t have to be top of the line or something pristine. The camera just needs to be able to get the job done if something goes wrong with your main equipment.
• Cleaning Supplies. Rain, confetti, dust, anything can happen, so always bring cleaning supplies (e.g., lens cleaner) to keep your gear clean and ready to go.
• Extra Power. Battery packs, batteries, whatever your device uses, your photography kit should include extra power for both your camera and your flashes.
• Tripod. While not a necessity, tripods are great for slower shutter speeds.
• Additional Memory Cards. Make sure you have enough memory to cover the entire event.
• Sturdy Camera Strap

While weddings are one of the most popular and lucrative forms of photography, they also carry a wide array of special concerns. To stay ahead of the game, what essential equipment do you have in your wedding photography supply kit?