I shot a wedding

It all started with a “yeah of course I will….” then as the weeks passed, what started out as a ‘happy to help’ gesture turned into, I’ll confess, a couple of sleepless nights. Our lovely friends were the happy couple and it was such a relaxed approach to their happy day which definitely helped me through. The venue was one I knew fairly well, the simply stunning Hedingham Castle. A couple of things caught me out. The first being in the wrong place at the wrong time as I was a witness to the marriage as well as photographing it and found myself upstairs shooting down (see above) when it was time to sign the register. Slightly embarrassed I made my way down to everyone’s amusement. The second I hadn’t considered was that when I first checked locations for the group shot the sun was fairly high in the sky. But by the time everyone was just heading outside it had dropped casting shadows through the surrounding trees all across my planned spot. Thankfully I had taken my lights and stands with me and was able to balance the light enough to loose the dark areas. Slightly panicked, but I think I got away with it.

So, the pressure is great. My new found respect for wedding photographers is sky high. You do only have one chance to capture this often most important day in these peoples lives. But is not all about the day, it’s about each element of the day captured with precision. I can see why some wedding photographers work in pairs.  Cars are easier, they’re either motionless, or coming round for another lap soon enough. Would I do it again? I would love to be second shooter capturing the more candid shots. I’d have to think very carefully about taking it up on my own again, never say never.