Things I Wish I Knew When Starting Out in Wedding Photography

If you’ve found your way here, it’s likely because you’ve decided to take the plunge into the world of Weddings. It’s a interesting journey ahead, but one that’s not without its challenges. Whether you’ve just picked up your first camera or you're ready to throw yourself into the business side of things, let this letter serve as a bit of guidance from someone who’s walked the same path. Think of it as advice that I wish I could have had when I was starting out.

1. Invest in Learning the Basics

Before you go spending out on expensive gear, take the time to really understand the fundamentals. Mastering composition, lighting, exposure, and storytelling will get you much further than the latest camera or lens ever will. Invest your time in learning, whether through online courses, reading, or simply practising. Get to grips with the technical side of things, but also challenge yourself creatively. Focus on developing your vision and style.

2. Keep Practising and Curating Your Style

The key to growth in photography, as with anything else, is practise. Don’t rush to be perfect, allow yourself to make mistakes and learn from them. Honour your craft, and understand that your style will evolve over time. It’s not something you can force; it comes through constant work. Keep shooting, keep experimenting, and keep refining. Your style will grow naturally, and when it does, it’ll be a reflection of all the work you’ve put in.

3. Celebrate the Small Steps

It’s easy to get caught up in the big wins and overlook the smaller steps, but never forget that each small victory is part of the bigger picture. Whether it’s getting your first paid job or simply mastering a tricky lighting setup, take time to appreciate these moments. They’ll help you stay motivated and remind you of how far you’ve come.

4. Find Your Niche, But Don’t Be Afraid to Explore

While it’s tempting to think you need to specialise from the get-go, don’t limit yourself too early. Experiment with different types of photography and see what excites you. Once you find your niche, lean into it. But remember, your niche might shift as you develop, and that’s perfectly fine. Let your creativity take you where it will.

5. Choose Your Peers Wisely

Unfortunately, not everyone you meet in this industry will have your best interests at heart. It’s a wonderful community, but like any other, there are those who can hinder your journey rather than help it. Surround yourself with like minded individuals who are supportive and who genuinely want to see you succeed. Be cautious about who you invest your time and energy in, choose mentors and peers who will inspire and push you forward, not hold you back.

6. Build a Portfolio (Quality Over Quantity)

Your portfolio is a direct reflection of your skills and your vision, so take the time to curate it carefully. Don’t rush to upload everything you’ve shot be selective. Only include your best work, the pieces that truly represent your style and abilities. A strong portfolio will speak louder than a large one. You’ll evolve, and so will your portfolio. Regularly review and update it, but always make sure it’s something you’re genuinely proud of.

7.  Build Meaningful Relationships

Photography isn’t just about taking beautiful pictures it’s about connections. Make an effort to network with other photographers, creatives, and potential clients. But remember, networking isn’t about collecting contacts; it’s about building genuine relationships. Be open to collaboration, and never underestimate the value of a friendly conversation or a helpful word. Sometimes it’s these connections that will lead to wonderful places.

8. Work Smart, Stay Humble and Don't be a D**k.

This industry is competitive, and it can take time before you see real progress. Stay patient, keep working, and don’t let setbacks get you down. It’s crucial to stay humble throughout the process, always be open to feedback, seek advice, and continually improve. No one starts as a master, and the journey itself is where you’ll learn the most. Keep pushing yourself, but remain grounded. 

9. Embrace the Business Side

As much as you’ll want to focus on your creative work, don’t neglect the business side of things. Learning how to price your work, manage your finances, and market yourself is just as important as knowing how to shoot. Get comfortable with contracts, invoicing, and handling taxes. If this overwhelms you, its time to outsource it to other professionals. Photography is an art, but it’s also a business and you need to treat it as such.

10. Learn to Handle Rejection

Rejection will come, and it’s something you’ll need to learn to handle gracefully. Not every client or project will be a perfect fit, and that’s okay. Don’t take it personally. Instead, use it as a chance to reflect, improve, and move forward. 

11. Consistency and Persistence Are Key

Photography for me isn’t a one off thing. it’s a lifelong commitment. Keep shooting regularly, even when you’re feeling uninspired. The more you shoot, the better you’ll become. Consistency and persistence will lead to growth, and eventually, you’ll see the results of all your hard work. Trust the process, even on the days when things feel slow.

12. Take Care of Yourself

Don’t forget to take care of your mind and body. Photography can be physically demanding, and long hours spent at events or editing can take their toll. Be sure to balance your work with moments of rest, and find time to do things that refresh your creativity. Stay connected to the world around you. It’ll help you avoid burnout and keep your work fresh. During the quieter periods, use this time to rest and align.

13. Celebrate Your Wins

And lastly, celebrate the wins, no matter how small. Getting your first paid gig, seeing your work featured, or simply finishing a challenging project are all moments worth celebrating. These victories are what keep you going on the harder days and remind you of the progress you’ve made.

 It’s a brilliant industry, but like anything else, it’s full of highs and lows. Stay true to your craft, surround yourself with the right people, and keep pushing yourself to be better. 

Jess x