by Yvonne Moore

Created on: June 24, 2008   Last Updated: July 02, 2008

Offering to photograph a friend's wedding is the best way to enter the photography business. Why? First, the main subjects are already smiling, laughing and celebrating. This far surpasses the energy required to get a screaming toddler to grin at the camera for their three-year old portrait. Second, the traditional poses capturing the bride, groom and wedding party require very little instruction or coaxing from a photographer. Most participants have already attended weddings and viewed many posed pictures capturing the events; they know what to do. Third, if the lighting is not just right when the bride kisses her father or the groom shakes the ring bearer's hand there are photo refinishing services that can tweak almost any imperfection. These advantages permit an entry-level or freelance photographer to spend more time capturing precious moments for the bride and groom.

Still with this position comes responsibility: meeting the customer's expectations. Failing to address this all important issue will quickly stunt the growth of a new photographer's business. Unfortunately angry customers spread the word at a much faster rate than satisfied ones. In wedding photography the key to satisfaction is preparation.

A caring photographer should contact the bride and groom at least one week prior to the event. Each should be asked which wedding photos would most likely bring a smile to their face after one month, one year and ten years of marriage. Then, politely request, if not demand, that they ask those individuals who are financially supporting the wedding to make a list of desired shots. Keeping the new mother-in-law happy with a special photo can go a long way for a new couple and generate referrals for a wedding photographer. Being customer service oriented may require several follow up calls to obtain the information. However, it will pay off. This input is what should create a photographer's mandatory, action item list specifically customized for their client.

Creating photo opportunities is another way to wow clients and gain a competitive advantage from others in the industry. Always be on the lookout for new trends. Make it a habit to speak to friends, colleagues and family who have recently attended weddings. Find out if there was something new that the bride or groom said or did. Offer these as potential photo shots to clients. Unlike the competitor taken by surprise, a creative photographer will initiate the activity so to capture the trend-setting, untraditional

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