Your First Wedding Gig: What No One Tells You (But We Will)
So… you’ve landed your first wedding booking.
Whether you’re second shooting for someone else or you’ve convinced a real-life couple to let you photograph their big day — first of all, congrats!
That’s no small feat.
But now what?
Before you dive headfirst into a 14-hour day with two camera bodies and zero clue where the toastmaster has gone… we’ve pulled together all the things we wish someone had told us before our first time. The practical, the emotional, and the stuff no one really posts about online.
This is your friendly, straight-talking guide to surviving (and smashing) your first wedding job.
1. Nerves Are Normal — You’re Not Alone
Yes, you’ll probably feel sick on the morning.
Yes, you’ll have dreams about turning up without a memory card.
And no, that doesn’t mean you’re not ready.
Even seasoned pros still get the jitters now and again. It means you care. The key is to plan well enough that even if your hands are a bit shaky, your head is clear and your gear is ready.
2. Prep Is Half the Battle
Weddings move fast. Like, blink-and-you-miss-the-kiss fast.
So prep like your life depends on it:
- Some say to visit the venue if you can, we suggest a proper online recon
- Know the timeline inside out – but be aware that it will change on the day!
- Confirm exact locations for the ceremony, reception and prep
- Ask who’s important to photograph (not just the couple!)
- Pack. Then double-check. Then maybe check again
Think of it like a shoot day + obstacle course. Because honestly… it kind of is.
3. The Bag Doesn’t Have to Be Big — Just Ready
You don’t need 4 flashes and a lens you can’t afford yet.
Here’s what actually matters:
- 2 camera bodies (borrow/rent if you don’t own two) – because failures happen!
- 2+ lenses (a wide and a zoom or a prime combo is perfect)
- More batteries than feels reasonable
- Empty, formatted memory cards -so you can fast swap
- A flash (for the dancefloor at the very least) – any light is better than NO light
Bonus points: plasters, a snack bar, a bottle of water and mints. You’ll thank us later.
4. Communication Is Just as Important as Composition
Yes, knowing your gear matters — but how you talk to people makes a massive difference.
- Smile. A lot.
- Be polite but confident when asking guests to move or smile
- Let the couple feel taken care of — reassure them when needed
- Talk through each key moment before it happens
- Listen more than you speak
- Knowing when Not to speak is just as important as knowing what to say
You’re not just a camera operator — you’re part of the emotional tone of the day. Own that role gently.
5. Expect the Unexpected
Weddings never go entirely to plan. And that’s okay.
Someone will be late.
The weather will change.
The group shot list will vanish or grow massively.
You’ll trip over a chair (just us?).
The key is to stay calm, roll with it, and problem-solve with a smile. Most couples will remember how you made them feel way more than whether every single shot was technically perfect.
If you need to buy time to work a problem out in your head, just say that you need a minute to grab something from your bag and go!
6. Second Shooting? Be the Kind of Assistant You’d Want
If you’re second shooting for another photographer — amazing. It’s the best way to learn without the full pressure.
Here’s how to stand out:
- Be proactive — look for moments, details, and reactions
- Ask what they need (then go do it before they ask again)
- Don’t jump in front of them during key moments, or any moments, or at all really.
- Be somewhere that they are not – The primary doesn’t need or want the shot they have from 2 foot to the left, they need something different from you!
- Be kind, be calm, be reliable — and you’ll get asked back
7. The Day Is Long — So Take Care of Yourself
You’re on your feet for 10–12 hours. You can’t pour from an empty glass.
- Eat whenever you can (pack snacks just in case)
- Drink water (not just coffee)
- Wear comfy shoes (fashion takes a back seat here)
- Step outside for 2 minutes of quiet if you need to reset
Taking care of you = better photos and a better experience for everyone.
8. It’s Genuinely a Privilege
You are being trusted to document one of the most personal, emotional, and joyful days in someone’s life.
Let that sink in.
Even if you’re panicking about settings or juggling two cameras, remember: this is huge for the couple. Be present. Be respectful. Be proud.
9. After the Day — Follow Through
Your job isn’t over when the DJ plays “Mr. Brightside.”
- Back up everything (twice) – We have another post about this on the way!
- Communicate clearly with the couple about delivery timelines
- Deliver your edits on time (or early!)
- Ask for feedback — it helps you grow
And if you’re second shooting — don’t use the images in your portfolio unless you have permission. Always check first.
Final Thoughts: You Can Do This
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to care, prepare, and be willing to keep learning.
Your first wedding job will probably feel chaotic, joyful, sweaty, inspiring, and slightly terrifying — and you’ll walk away knowing more than you could’ve imagined.
And hey, when in doubt: smile, shoot, and check your shutter speed.
You’ve got this. And we’ve got you.
#StartSomewhere #straighttalkingadvice #ShutterCircleFamily
