steve skibbie central ca

Is this possible? I'm trying to speed things up. I would like to be able to

hit a key and perform an action, instead of having to mouse click the selected

action each time.

Quick and dirty method lessens the glare but maybe not removes:

 

Use the burn tool set on "highlights" and about 12%. If you post an example of what needs work, you might get better ideas, too!

I've been to three shows all with the same company. Two of the shows were profitable-- booked several weddings between the two of them and one of them I didn't book a single one-- that I'm aware of.

 

The shows are valuable because you meet brides, possibly hundreds who have friends who are getting married as well and they tell their friends. They're a captive audience and it's your chance to really WOW them with your work and product. Also, you can get your brochure/price list into their hands.

 

I used to display framed images, from 5x7 on up to 12x10, but EVERYONE was doing that, so I switched to what was actually cheaper but better because I could display MORE images-- I mounted 12x18 prints on fancy mounting board and hung them all together from my background stands.

 

I was able to show off around 35 large images like this and it didn't look like anyone else's display, hopefully making it more memorable if my images didn't do the trick.

 

I also bought a 32-inch LCD monitor to run a slide show.

 

The investment is worth it because you can use your display again and again.

 

The other benefit of the bridal show is meeting other exhibitors who you might network with-- heck, even other photographers can send business your way-- they can't shoot every wedding.

I should respond and say how much I enjoy the whole wedding concept-- it's a sacred occasion. People are usually upbeat and excited. It's a party, too, with music and food!

 

I love when my clients are interested in making good pictures, when they are spontaneous.

 

I like the fact that many brides appreciate photojournalism and lifestyle rather than just the staid way we did pics 15 years ago.

 

And the fact that brides will invest in their photography also is encouraging. While they might pay more for their honeymoon or the catering, none of that stuff lasts like an album of good photos.

1. Full-time

 

2. Was photojournalist asked often to shoot weddings 10 years ago and fell in love with the whole thing.

 

3. 15-20 for this year... have booked ten, so far.

 

4. My top pkg is most popular at this point. It's $3500.

Just a quick suggestion-- try to utilize the three basic photojournalism shots-- close-up, medium shot and wide shot. It makes an advertisement much more interesting and eye-catching.

 

Also, I think you should avoid the backs of brides' or other people's heads, unless your sure the shot REALLY has something to say. Depending on where it's printed/posted-- you'll want it to be noticeable and colorful. Black and white doesn't always mean something's artsy or photojournalistic.

 

The color shot of the guy making the funny face is catching, but needs some cropping, I think.

 

Finally, the text size is a little small and gray.

 

Keep on shooting (and advertising,

 

Steve

I think your question has been answered-- maybe that's not what you wanted to hear, but the advice to get ahold of extra equipment is good advice.

 

If you can rent the extra stuff or borrow from someone that might make it easier. You probably will want to get a wide-angle... maybe even an inexpensive one to just do the job.

 

The backup camera and flash is wise and among professionals in the wedding industry, it's STANDARD.

 

Remember, you can have all the expectations that you put upon yourself, but if they don't meet your client's expectations, you're a failure. It's all about making your client absolutely LOVE your work and your ability to pull off a pretty difficult task.

 

Best wishes.

For me, I don't feel it's appropriate to expect to be fed at a wedding, I wouldn't write it into a contract either-- I think that's awfully demanding on someone who is already hiring you to work "X" number of hours.

 

Now, break times are different. I will verbally explain that during the mealtime, my assistant and I will likely be seated somewhere nearby rather than shooting guests as they eat.

 

Most of my clients have been thoughtful enough to have had two seats reserved for me and my assistant-- I've never had a vendor meal, either. I have, however, eaten at a children's table (which makes for some funny shots)

 

Sometimes, we don't have time to eat. Depending on the schedule of the wedding, we'll be shooting "catch up" shots if the wedding party is running late.

 

I wouldn't expect to be fed just like I wouldn't expect them to provide me batteries for my equipment. I'll always bring Cliff Bars with me, just in case.<div></div>

After shooting solo for several years, I was contacted by a new-to-town photographer who wanted to do some "shadowing" to learn the trade. At first, I was resistant but eventually I agreed and after she photographed (albeit WELL) with me for two weddings, I started to pay her $20/hr to shoot.

 

The benefits of a second shooter is as mentioned above, and I would add-- if the main photog and assistant are opposite sex, both the guys and gals can be covered during prep time. Often, my 2nd shooter is able to get shots that I can't while the bride is fitted into her gown.

 

Plus, in the style of reportage photography, you are enabled to better tell a very complex story of someone's wedding day.

I was there, too, invited to help Miss T and her assistant.

 

That was a tough shot to get-- I know the particulars, the limited space and dimly lit environment. The improvements our PhotoNet friends made above seem pretty cool, better than I could do.

 

I would always try to get up on a chair for a group shot like that, they had some tall folks as well and just changing the "altitude" could make a world of difference. Also maybe a tighter grouping which is easier if you can shoot at more of a downward angle.

 

That hotel wasn't the most ideal for beautiful group shots-- plus the time constraints, as well.

 

I would add however, that Amanda is great to work with! Good photog!

Mike, as you can read by the answers, there is really no such thing as a single MUST HAVE lens. Most photographers know they need to have a range of lenses from wide to tele. And having the lenses in the f2.8 zone is important for low light conditions often found during the ceremony.

 

Also, some churches prohibit the use of flash during the ceremony-- ask the wedding coordinator-- usually you can get away with it during the processional and recessional. So, the 550's are not necessarily a bad idea.

 

For the record, I use a 24-70 1.8, 17mm, 70-200 2.8, 50mm 1.8 on 20D's.

Good question, but I'm not sure that Nikon users convert over like you say they do-- I know PLENTY of photogs who still shoot Nikon digital. And it's professional equipment, so people rest their careers on Nikons and Canons all over. Neither brand is limited (in the professional category) in their ability to perform flash or existing light photography. Whoever told you they were is mistaken.

 

I say pick one and you won't be sorry. You may want to stick with Nikon because you're familiar with their lenses (and you own some) and the way they look and feel and operate.

 

But, you won't be sorry for picking one or the other.

 

Steve

Canon User but would be just as happy with Nikon, too.

Nice work... I like the energy and it looked like the couple and guests were having FUN.

 

My favorite shot is "The Kiss" with the ministers seemingly oblivious to the couple.

I have used the AB's for two years and have had great results.

 

The wireless triggers have been somewhat inconsistent, but they have some great features such as the ability to change the output on separate lights REMOTELY-- very handy idea. I spoke to the AB's representatives and they were VERY polite and helpful about the trigger's problems.

 

They are allowing me a refund or exchange and they also said they are working on a new transmitter that will transmit on a better frequency.

Yes, I bring a G4 Powerbook in order to store photos... then have an assistant burn the images to DVD on the spot. I'm just a little beyond careful to avoid losing images-- which I haven't yet.

 

At the church I attend, I shoot many weddings there, so I'm pretty comfortable to set up the laptop in a corner of the sanctuary set on slideshow (actually, set on Mac's screensaver slideshow) where my client and guests can see the images I just shot.

I haven't heard of this set up, yet. I'm not surprised, though, that someone was able to make a simplified Quantum. I have been using Quantum Turbo Z's for years and even found a company in San Diego that sells replacement batteries for the inside without going through Quantum.

 

As much as this guy makes fun of the battery level lights-- I like knowing how much I've got left in my pack, instead of having to guess how many shots I've taken.

 

Al Jacob spends so much time/space on his poorly designed website explaining HOW and WHY, I hardly was interested buying one-- let alone finding the price was difficult as well.

Yeah, I think the candlelighting one could have been done more effectively with a long lens. Of course, not knowing what the church had on its "stage" or "chancel", it's a little hard to determine that. But, seeing that you were shooting with at LEAST a 28mm wide lens, you made what essentially is quiet, "intimate" moment a little loud with the guests in the background. Now, if the B&G were facing the guests while they lit the unity candle, that would be a different thing... Their backs are turned for a reason, I think.

 

Consulting with the official or Church wedding coordinator will usually set the rules for you, but even if the pastor says it's okay, you still have to remember that there are guests who are there and the last thing they want to see is an obvious photographer standing over the altar.

 

Just be sensitive and move quickly and quietly-- avoid calling attention to yourself as much as you can. And use those long, fast lenses!

Awesome!!!

 

What a handy device to not only light your subject but also to elicit great smiles! However, in a windy environment-- I'm not sure I'd want something that could catch the wind attached to my head.

I think the photo would say more using the same effect if the bride was looking at herself in the mirror.

 

Also, some brides love the cliche shots, some can readily identify them... so I usually try to ask the bride what kinds of shots she's interested in during the initial consultation.

Gary,

Most photogs will tell you that the advantages of using "modern" equipment gives the bride and groom more options, thus a better product.

 

It's not a matter of difficulty in managing a manual camera, but really a matter of limitations set by older equipment.

 

BTW, I've never used any of the program features on my camera-- I cut my teeth on fully manual cameras, and I shoot better using manual. However, I do use TTL on my flash, I chimp my shots on my digitals, and use zoom lenses.

 

All of this is to give the bride and groom a better, more complete story of their wedding.

I should add that often only one meeting is required, but if the bride wants to meet again or if the wedding day looks very complex, then a second meeting is fine... or if the bride requests it.

I bring proof albums from one entire event so they can see my work in a more realistic context, also other sample albums and contracts.

 

I think both Annes here have great answers and I've had good results with being very open and offering time to my client to review the contract, etc.

 

But best of all, if you spend adequate time with the couple getting to know them, your wedding day photography will reflect it because you know them that much more and they know you.

 

Remember someone here once said that wedding photography is 25% photography and 75% psychology-- or something to that extent-- this is very true and the more you can connect with a client pre-wedding day, the more they will trust you as their Photographer and even as a friend on a potentially stressful day.

The Professional Photographers of America trade magazine has been extremely encouraging from a business standpoint. I think you can subscribe w/o joining the PPA-- it's a great magazine with marketing ideas and interviews with photographers from all sides of the business.

 

I also enjoy a couple of the digital photographers magazines (I can't recall the titles right now) from the UK. They cost 10 to 15 bucks, but they have great ideas for RAW workflow, shooting tips, etc. You can usually find them at Barnes & Noble booksellers.

George...

 

Keep going. Learn and live. As best as you can, try to get along with everyone to keep your business name intact. Even when someone is doing wrong, like insolent videographers, deal with them without them seeing you get steamed. The principle of doing good to your "enemies" benefits you in the long run, I believe.

 

Once, I photographed a reception in a poorly lit hall-- lighted mainly by candles and those sparkly little Christmas lights. The videographers didn't have a spotlight-- they were just starting the business out. I dragged out my studio lights and set one up in each corner of the facility and they were able to shoot video using the 100w modeling lights, which actually helped the ambience of the event.

 

They were very thankful and even dropped my name to other clients.

My congrats to you, Anne! We all love a "new" eye.