General Rules And Tips On Taking Pictures at Weddings

Rule one is to not interfere with the hired photographer's shots. If you want to "follow in his wake" for special posed portraits, simply ask permission to shoot a couple of frames after he finishes. Most pros will accommodate these polite requests.

Next, turn on your flash and leave it on, indoors or out.

When you're taking group shots, remember to position your subjects as close together as possible. Generally speaking, people stand too far apart. Tightening up the spacing will make for better shots.

Make sure everyone in the group has a clear view of the camera. If they can't see the camera, the camera can't see them. The choice for large groups is simple: either vary the heights of those in the group by arranging them on steps or risers, or raise the camera angle above their heads and shoot downward. If you have to, stand on a stable chair to get a better angle for group shots.

Keep an eye out for candids, too. Look for those special moments that make these gatherings so memorable—last-minute preparations, a kiss on the cheek, a sleepy child in a guest's arms, the perfect toast, a romantic dance sequence, or guests signing the guestbook. These are all potentially great photographs, just waiting for you to shoot them.