The One Camera To Rule Them All For Wedding Photography

Wedding photography can be a stressful, demanding, yet rewarding and enjoyable task. It requires confidence, people skills, discretion, and technical know-how. While some photographers opt for multiple cameras, it is possible to capture stunning wedding photos with just one camera. The key is to choose the right camera and plan your shots accordingly.

When selecting a camera for wedding photography, consider factors such as sensor type and size, low-light capabilities, video features, build quality, and weather protection. It is also essential to have a backup plan, extra cards, batteries, and a clear understanding of the wedding schedule.

Additionally, don't underestimate the power of disposable cameras or phone cameras. While they may not produce professional-quality images, they can capture candid moments that the main photographer might miss. However, disposable cameras have been known to produce dark or washed-out images, so it's a gamble.

Camera body

When it comes to the camera body, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it is important to decide between a DSLR or a mirrorless camera. DSLRsection begin=1>DSLR cameras tend to be bulkier and heavier, but they have longer battery life and are often more affordable. On the other hand, mirrorless cameras are lighter and more compact, making them easier to carry around during a wedding. They also offer silent shooting, which can be advantageous during quiet wedding ceremonies. However, they tend to have shorter battery life and can be more expensive.

When choosing a camera body, it is also crucial to consider the sensor size. A full-frame sensor offers several advantages, such as a shallower depth of field and better low-light performance compared to an APS-C sensor. This can be beneficial for wedding photography, as it allows for dreamy bokeh effects and better performance in low-light conditions. However, full-frame sensors also produce larger image files, which can take up more storage space.

Another factor to consider is the camera's low-light capabilities. Weddings often involve low-light conditions, especially during the ceremony and in the evening. Look for a camera with a good ISO range and in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) to ensure you can capture clear and sharp images even in low light.

It is also worth considering the camera's burst mode feature, which will allow you to capture fast-moving moments, such as the bride throwing the bouquet or the first dance. A burst mode of around 7fps or faster is desirable but not essential if you have good photography skills.

Additionally, while you may not be interested in video, it is worth noting that modern cameras often offer video capabilities. Being able to capture some video footage can be a nice way to add variety to your offering and stand out from other photographers. However, keep in mind that video editing can be time-consuming.

When choosing a camera body, it is essential to consider your budget and the specific needs of your wedding photography. If you are just starting, you may want to invest in a more affordable option and gradually upgrade your equipment as you book more weddings.

Lenses

Prime Lenses:

Prime lenses have a fixed focal length, offering superior image quality and a wide aperture, making them ideal for low-light conditions. They are also generally more affordable and lightweight than zoom lenses. The most commonly used prime lenses for wedding photography include:

• 50mm lens: This is a versatile lens that can be used for a variety of shots, including portraits, group photos, and reception dancing. It offers a natural perspective and is great for capturing the surroundings.
• 85mm lens: This lens is perfect for portraits, smaller group photos, and tighter ceremony/reception detail shots. It provides a slightly compressed perspective, making it excellent for capturing emotions and expressions.
• 35mm lens: This wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing large family groups, full reception room shots, and portraits in small spaces. It allows you to include more of the surroundings in your frame.

Zoom Lenses:

Zoom lenses offer the convenience of multiple focal lengths in a single lens, making them versatile and ideal for quickly changing situations. They are generally more expensive and heavier than prime lenses. The most commonly used zoom lenses for wedding photography include:

• 24-70mm lens: This lens is perfect for capturing big group shots, such as wedding parties and family photos, as well as tighter shots during the ceremony. It offers a versatile focal length range that covers a wide variety of shooting situations.
• 70-200mm lens: This telephoto zoom lens is ideal for the ceremony, allowing you to capture shots from a distance without being obtrusive. It is also great for capturing candid moments and tighter shots of the couple.

Additional Lenses:

While not essential, these lenses can add a creative touch to your wedding photography:

• Macro lens (e.g., 105mm): A macro lens allows you to capture tiny details, such as rings, jewellery, and other small items. It provides a magnification ratio of 1:1, meaning you can get extremely close to your subject and capture intricate details.
• Ultra-wide lens (e.g., 14-24mm): An ultra-wide lens is perfect for tight spaces or when you want to capture an entire scene in a single frame. It provides a unique perspective and can create dramatic images with exaggerated depth and perspective.

Other Considerations:

When choosing lenses, it is essential to consider the camera body you are using. Nikon, Canon, and Sony are popular brands, and you can find similar lenses for each system. Additionally, think about the lighting conditions you will be shooting in and whether you need lenses with a wide aperture (e.g., f/1.2, f/1.4) for low-light situations. Finally, don't forget to invest in lens protection, such as UV filters, and consider purchasing a dual-camera harness to comfortably carry two camera bodies.

Flashes

Hunter and Sarah Photography recommend having one flash for each camera body, plus an additional backup. They use Nikon Speedlight flashes, with the addition of an external battery pack that can be worn andsection which plugs into the flash, increasing the battery life and reducing the recycle time.

Christy Hunter Photography uses Yongnuo 560 IV speedlights, which are affordable and reliable. She recommends having at least two flashes, with three being ideal. She also suggests using light modifiers, such as a white translucent umbrella, or products by MagMod, such as the MagBounce and MagSphere, to improve the quality of light.

Camera protection

If you can only afford one camera for your wedding, you'll want to make sure it's well protected. Here are some tips to ensure your camera equipment stays safe:

• Invest in a good camera bag: Look for a bag that is specifically designed for carrying camera equipment. It should have padded compartments to protect your camera and any lenses or accessories you have.
• Use a camera strap: A strap will help you keep your camera secure and reduce the risk of dropping it. Look for a strap that is comfortable and adjustable so you can wear it all day.
• Be mindful of the environment: Weddings can be chaotic, with people and activities everywhere. Be aware of your surroundings to avoid accidental bumps or knocks to your camera. Keep it close to you at all times.
• Protect from the elements: If your wedding is outdoors, take precautions to protect your camera from the weather. Use a rain cover or plastic bag to shield it from rain or moisture. If it's a hot day, avoid leaving your camera in direct sunlight for extended periods.
• Pack smart: If you need to transport your camera, pack it securely in a hard-sided travel case or padded envelope. Surround it with bubble wrap or other cushioning to prevent damage during transit.
• Keep it discrete: A low-profile camera bag can help deter theft and accidental damage. Avoid leaving your camera unattended, and consider insuring your equipment in case of loss or damage.

In addition to these tips, it's always a good idea to have a backup plan. Consider hiring a second photographer or asking a trusted guest to take additional photos. That way, if anything happens to your camera, you'll still have photos to remember your special day.

Memory cards

Factors to Consider

Storage Capacity

Speed Class

The speed class indicates the minimum writing speed of the card, which is crucial when shooting in burst mode or recording high-definition video. The speed classes range from Class 2 (slowest) to Class 10 (fastest). Additionally, there are Ultra High Speed (UHS) classes: UHS-I, UHS-II, and UHS-III, with UHS-III being the fastest. For wedding photography, a minimum write speed of 30 MB/s is recommended, but if you plan on capturing burst images or 4K video, faster speeds of 90 MB/s or higher are ideal.

Video Speed Class

If you intend to record video, especially 4K or 8K, consider the Video Speed Class, denoted as V10, V30, V60, or V90. The number indicates the minimum sustained write speed in MB/s. For 4K recording, a V30 (30 MB/s) speed class should suffice.

Brand Reliability

Opt for reputable brands known for their durability and reliability, such as SanDisk, Lexar, Kingston, and Sony.

Device Compatibility

Ensure the memory card is compatible with your camera. Not all cameras support all card types, especially high-capacity SDXC cards. Check your camera's specifications before purchasing.

Price

Faster and larger capacity cards tend to be more expensive. Balance your specific needs, such as storage space and write speed, with your budget to find the best value.

Recommended Memory Cards for Wedding Photography

SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SDXC

The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-II SDXC card is an excellent all-rounder, offering capacities from 32GB to 128GB. It boasts impressive read and write speeds of up to 300MB/s and 260MB/s, respectively, making it ideal for burst shooting. This card is versatile and reliable, capable of handling various photography and video demands, including 8K, 4K, and Full HD videos. It is also designed to withstand various environmental conditions, ensuring your data stays safe.

ProGrade Digital SDXC UHS-II V90 300R

The ProGrade Digital SDXC UHS-II V90 300R card is a top choice for 4K video recording. It offers capacities from 64GB to 256GB, providing ample space for high-quality videos. With read and write speeds of up to 300MB/s and 250MB/s, respectively, it effortlessly handles large data files. This card is optimized for cinematic cameras and is 4K, 8K, RAW, and RAW HD ready, ensuring smooth and reliable performance. Additionally, it features built-in Error Correction Code (ECC) Technology for data integrity.

SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC

The SanDisk Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC card is a reliable option for everyday photography, including weddings. It offers a wide range of capacities, from 32GB to 1TB, to accommodate various user needs. The read speed of up to 170MB/s and the write speed of 90MB/s make it well-suited for capturing high-resolution photos and Full HD videos. This card is also robust, with shockproof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and X-ray-proof features, ensuring it can withstand the demands of a busy wedding shoot.

Angelbird AV PRO SD Card MK2 – V90 – SDXC UHS-II

The Angelbird AV PRO SD Card MK2 is a top choice for professional video recording. With capacities from 64GB to 256GB, it provides ample room for high-quality video files. The card delivers sustained speed performance with read and write speeds of up to 300MB/s and 260MB/s, respectively. It is widely compatible and optimized for Full HD, 4K+, and RAW video recording, making it a favorite among videographers. Additionally, it offers a free professional data recovery service, providing peace of mind during your shoots.

Frequently asked questions