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Question: Shadowing a Wedding Photographer!?
I called around a little today to see if I could shadow a photographer, seeing as I am going to college for photography next year!. I ended up talking to one who said that I could shadow her this Saturday, at a wedding!. It will last 12 hours!. I won’t be getting paid, but I don’t mind!. Experience is more valuable!. Anyway, not only is this my first time shadowing but it will also be my first time at a wedding!. I’m 23!. So, I’m just wondering what to expect!. What would I be doing as a “shadow”!? Should I bring a portfolio of my pictures!? They all happen to be shots of nature, which doesn’t really work in showing to a wedding photographer, but should I still!?Www@QuestionHome@Com


Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:
Great!. Not many people get an opportunity to do something like this!. There are many people who would love to do it!. I would not recommend taking your portfolio!. There won't be time for the photographer to look at your work and that's not what this opportunity is all about!.

You should, however, observe what she is doing!. Make a note of what equipment she's using and when!. How she interacts with the couple!. How she uses her equipment (ie bounces the flashes)!. In which direction!. Try to stay out of the way!. Don't ask too many questions!.

You won't need to stay for the whole 12 hours but it will be long!. Dinner will probably won't be serve to you since you are not working for the photographer!. So you might want to bring along a hoagie or something!. You will be hungry!.

What to expect is the photographer will usually take pictures of the bride getting ready at her home with the brides maid!. Then it's off to the church for the ceremony!. That usually last about an hour!. Then the formal pictures with the bride and family member!. After that probably to a nice park for some more pictures!. Then off to the receptions!. If you're not riding with the photographer, make sure you have directions and addresses of where you are going or need to be at at a certain time!. In case you get separated!.

It will be a long day!. Ask the photographer if you'll be able to see the shoot if she puts in online to see the results!. Don't forget to thank her for the opportunity!. Who knows, if you go to school for it, you might be working for her as an assitant in the future!. Good luck!. Www@QuestionHome@Com

Whatever you do dress and conduct yourself professionally, don't drink, offer to carry her equipment and leave your portfolio home this time!. If you develop a friendship with the photographer, then would be the time to show your work!. Ask if you may shoot a few images with your own camera and carry a protein bar in your pocket!.Www@QuestionHome@Com