How to Capture those Perfect Wedding Moments

A wedding is undoubtedly one of the most precious moments in a person's life. Capturing it on film to be stored forever is even more important. Today, brides and grooms have so any options to choose from when it comes to choosing the kind of photography that they want for the most important day of their lives.

Here is a guide in achieving the wedding photography of a couple's dreams:

1. Choosing the right photographer

• In order to select a wedding photographer, a couple must first decide on the picture style that they want.
• Portrait photographers are perfectly capable to take both formal and casual pictures, but he will most likely concentrate on the formal ones.
• Photojournalists take shots that are candid and not planned. This kind of photographer usually has experience in journalism photography.
• Hobbyist photographers are those who are often a friend or a relative of the couple, and would likely offer his services for free or a very low price. It is hard to tell the kind of pictures that they will produce, and there is a risk that the pictures may not be as good as a professional's.

2. Getting the perfect camera

• Wedding photographers usually use two basic camera types: the 35mm and the medium format. The 35mm has the tendency to produce pictures that are a little grainy, but the only person who may notice the difference are the photographers themselves.

3. Color or black and white?

• Color is usually used in wedding photos, but those who want a more artistic feel may go for the black and white film. Black and white photos lasts longer than color ones, though color films capture the details of the event more appropriately. One option would be to take the pictures in color first, then have copies made in black and white.

4. Personality of the photographer

• Most couples want a photographer who can take great pictures but who is also friendly and sociable. Set an interview with the prospective photographer, and make sure to ask effective questions. Also, make sure to ask for references, and take a look at his previous work.

All these tips can help couples in getting those perfect pictures on their special day. Make sure that these pictures can be shown proudly to families and friends, and can be passed down to future generations.

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Photography Techniques That Will Help Anyone Take Great Pictures

There's nothing like a beautiful photograph to capture some of life's most beautiful moments. This is why cameras are always at hand during those special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, graduations, etc.

Unfortunately people behind these cameras are not exactly what you might call experts. They are more likely to be your friends, family, and next door neighbor. That is why some of the outcomes of these pictures taken leave something more to be desired. That is precisely why some people hire the services of a professional photographer. Not everyone has enough money to spare on a professional photographer and that is why they do with some  not so impressive pictures.

Here are some photography techniques that will make undesirable pictures a thing of the past!
 

1. For portraits it is important to have a fitting backdrop. Using a tripod helps to keep the shot from being blurred. It also helps to keep the photograph straight.
2. Avoid direct sunlight when shooting outdoors. If using the sun as a source of natural light, make sure it is behind the photographer.
3. Photographers have to develop a good rapport with their subjects. When taking portraits it is best if the subject's face is relaxed, and not fixed into a posed smile. Photographers can help their subjects feel at ease by engaging them in friendly conversation in between shots.
4. When taking group photos make sure that everyone gets included in the picture. Some directing on the photographer's part might be necessary. Position everyone so that they fit into the picture. The tallest persons should be in the back row, so nobody gets accidentally blocked from the shot.
5. Spontaneous shots are wonderful! They are a good break from the stiff, posed, smiles that people brandish at you once you point a camera at them. They are really great during parties, wedding pictorials, etc.  This doesn't mean that you should take one of those horrible candid celebrity shots that end up in tabloid magazines!

Photographers should try to catch their subjects when they are at their best and when they are at ease, being natural, and just plain having a good time. This way their personality, and true essence will be captured in the photographs.

Taking great photographs can be achieved by using some of these techniques. Remember that practice makes perfect. That is why individuals should take plenty of pictures until they become comfortable with being behind the camera. It won't take long until they start taking those award winning shots, and pretty soon develop some techniques of their own.

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