Ten Great Wedding Photography Tips

Many of us attend weddings from time to time and this is an opportunity to grab some memorable moments for the family album. People often complain they can't take good photos. But modern cameras, even basic models are quite sophisticated and can eliminate many of the errors that used to lead to poor quality. By following these simple tips you can vastly improve your photos not only at weddings but at other parties, outings, vacations and much more.

1) When you obtain a new camera read the operating instructions and become familiar with basic functions. If you turn up at a wedding with a camera you are unsure how to even switch on there's little hope of decent photos.

2)The 'official' photographer will organise and compose the happy couple portraits, family groups and mass photos. Take advantage by grabbing shots from beside or slightly behind the official photographer but don't get in their way and make a nuisance of yourself.

3) Understand lighting or your snaps may poorly lit. Early morning will give weak sunlight, midday strong light, afternoon weakening light. Overcast / cloud also give subdued light so you may require a flash.

4) Think about composition. Straightforward 'portrait' shots are fine but can you make it more interesting from using a different angle? Try to vary poses. Lots of the self same snaps are boring.

5) Consider backgrounds. Have you got a tree, lamp-post or something else weird growing out of the top of your subjects head? Check before you shoot.

6) Large groups such as family wedding gatherings are often difficult to shoot even for professionals as people look away, talk, yawn, wander off, comb hair and much more. Don't spend all day waiting for the perfect shot as it probably will never arrive.

7) Try to capture 'off guard' moments as these are the kind of shots that will make the occasion memorable. People do the silliest and most interesting things when they don't realise they are on camera.

8) Having your subjects staring into the sun may cause them to squint. Shooting into the sun will likely cause your subjects to be silhouetted against the light and turn out just a black shape. Test the lighting before you shoot.

9) Know the limitations of your camera. If you camera doesn't have a great zoom facility don't waste shots of the horizon or distant features. Instead concentrate on closer subjects but be also aware of being TOO close or your pictures may end up out of focus.

10) Be aware of camera shake. It's not easy to hold a camera, frame a shot, focus and press the shutter button. Try to take a breath and hold it for a few moments as you press the shutter as this will reduce the chance of the camera shake that results in blurred photos.

Keep these easy tips in mind and your photos can dramatically improve.