Wedding photography comes with a lot of challenges, although none more panic inducing (for the photographer) than the nice, cushy, 90 minute portrait time you and your client scheduled into the timeline has been eaten up by every other crisis during the day and now you’re left with 10 minutes to make MAGIC happen. Awesome (not). With tightened timelines, often you’re left with only a small, nearby area to take photos in and if you’re like me, that is a problem because I like to give my clients variety in their photos.
In the beginning, I used to panic in these situations but now I remember to rely on my camera bag. I have a bunch of lenses in it and they all produce different looks even in the same situation.
Two of my favorite “go to” lenses that are beautiful, but in very different ways, are my 35mm and my 85mm. I took both of these images from the same spot (perched on a rock wall with my assistant spotting me). Since I shoot with a harness that holds two cameras, it took me about 3 seconds to switch cameras and get these two very different looks in the small amount of time we had.
After those photos were accomplished in all of a minute, we walked down a path to this beautiful marble structure and I employed the same technique; get my clients into position then take a photo with each lens.
Quick, simple, and again, adds to the diversity of images I can give my clients and I’m only a few minutes in to shooting. I can also apply these techniques to zoom lenses. Here, I’ve used my 70-200 telephoto to compress the space behind the couple and accentuate the leading lines of the hedges to the center of the frame with my couple. Alternatively I used my wide angle to create a “secret garden” feel, enhancing the feel of a private moment for the couple.
This vineyard scene also illustrates the diversity from just a quick lens change.
Next time you find yourself short on time, or even just short on ideas, change your lens! Even in the same setting, it will give you a whole new perspective!
Really nice pics. I use my 70-200 f2.8 on 80% of my pictures. I like the emotion pics and keeping it simple. “Less is more”
Best regards Jan
http://bryllupsshoot.dk