Any suggestions for reception shots at military wedding?

I am shooting my first military wedding reception on Sat. Another

photog is shooting wedding and I'm booked for 5 hrs., 12:00 till

5:00, at the Officer's Club for the reception.

 

Anyone shot military receptions before? Any suggestions for anything

different I should be on the look out for. Do you have a favorite

shot for these affairs? I shoot mostly PJ style. I was hoping to

get some shots outside but we are expecting heavy rain all day, so

I'm stuck inside.

 

Thanks.

 

Cliff

Dont let the groom near the cake with a sword.

You can expect a sword (or saber) to be used for the cake. While it's not your job, it should be cleaned thoroughly before being sheathed. Icing is really tough to clean out when it's dry (it's tough even if it's not dry). I would expect the sword arch will be done at the church/chapel, and outside is traditional for the Episcopal Church. In the Navy, you are unlikely to see any sword out in the Club except possibly for cutting the cake. But I've attended some, never tried to shoot them.

I've done a couple. You can expect a sword ceremony immediately following the 'I do's. The bride will get smacked on the rear with a sword, and you may catch her kissing one of the swordsmen. As for the reception I thought they were like most others. It was fun watching uniformed officers acting less than professional - good photo ops for the guys who are all dressed up and intoxicated. Have fun!