How To Become A Competent Bay Area Wedding Photographer

By Kathleen Hill


As a photographer, there are various ways to make money using your skills. However, while you might prefer something like shooting landscape being a competent bay area wedding photographer will ensure that you have a steady source of income. There are various things you will need to do before you can be deemed a professional. Here are some pointers to keep in mind through your journey.

Your expertise and experience determine competence in the field of photography. This means that you will have to train hard and consistently. You can shoot a mock wedding with your friends, and this will allow you to master various aspects of photography. Additionally, you need to ensure that you have top of line equipment which you understand inside out.

An excellent photographer is one with a comprehensive portfolio in both soft and hard copy. Your portfolio is what your clients will use to gauge your expertise. Additionally, it will also help you keep track of your progress and growth. You should ensure that you continuously add to these portfolios whether you took the photos while practicing or at another event.

While still on the subject of clientele, you should remember that people are different. This will mean equipping yourself with the skills to deal with different personalities. Excellent people skills are essential because while the client might be assessing your expertise, they will also need to ascertain that your personalities are synchronized before they hire you. Therefore, if possible, desist from being the stereotypical eccentric artist.

The prices you set will determine if you have too many people calling for bookings, or none at all. Therefore, before you set your rates compare what other professionals are charging. This will ensure that you offer packages that are competitive when compared to the other professional in your area. Additionally, try to provide services that other people do not. For example, a follow-up photo shoot scheduled for a year after the wedding.

Do not assume that just because you are good at what you do people will flock to your studio. Invest both time and money in advertising. This can be done by hiring a marketer or posting your work on social media. Additionally, consider requesting some of your clients to refer you to people they know. You should also ensure that one of the first things you do is to establish a website, which you will update regularly.

During weddings, there are very many activities happening simultaneously, therefore hire assistance. You can choose a few professional who you can work with on a part-time or full-time basis. These should be competent and trustworthy individuals. Having the right assistance will ensure all angles of the event are covered, without you running around trying to get everything done.

Before the wedding, you shall act as an advisor to the couple. Therefore, learn how to listen and offer your opinions without seeming pushy. Additionally, you have to ensure you are honest and upfront at all times. This way, the clients you take on will not have any false expectations from you.




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