I'm typing this just hours before I have to be shooting a wedding (and yes, this post will be posted after the wedding as not to alarm the bride and groom!) and I'm not going to lie, I'm super nervous. Like mega-can't-eat-can't-think nervous. I'm beginning to wonder what I'm going to be like before my own wedding if this is how I feel before someone else's!
I think the biggest part is the thought of I'm the one shooting someone's once in a lifetime event. There are no do-overs if I miss a shot, a picture comes out blurry, or if (heaven forbid) something happens to the files later. That's a lot of pressure! Throw in my mild social anxiety and you might get a good idea of how I feel right now.
I always tell myself that if I ever shoot a wedding (or any other shoot) and I'm not a little bit queasy, then I'm probably doing something wrong. Being nervous is actually a little good for you; it can keep you on your toes and pushes you to do your best. However, that doesn't necessarily help the nervousness at that moment, so here are a few things you can do that might help.
1. EAT
If your nervous is anything like my nervous, eating is the absolute last thing you want to do. My stomach is in knots and even looking at food makes me sick. Eating something is actually pretty crucial for someone who is going to be on their feet (without very many breaks!) for a good four to five hours or more. By the reception, your nerves have calmed and smelling all of that yummy food is going to make that tummy rumble.
I always try to eat a little something, even if I think it's absolutely revolting at the moment. If I simply just can't eat, I also try to put in a granola bar or some trail mix in my camera bag to sneak in when I'm feeling a little less queasy (usually by the time I get to the church). Trust me, your body will thank you later. :)
2. Stay hydrated.
Again, you're going to be moving around for a few hours without much of a break. It's important to have some water on hand to stay hydrated, but it can also help ease your stomach as well. If you can't fit a small water bottle in your bag, most churches usually have a water fountain somewhere outside the sanctuary. Find it and drink up, but not so much that you feel bloated and gross!
3. Stretch
I promise it will help! Stop whatever you're doing if you can and take some deep breaths. Stretch your arms out and above your head and loosen up your shoulders. It will allow your body and mind to relax more.
4. Prepare the day before.
Charge your camera's batteries, make sure to have any paperwork you might need (including phone numbers and addresses!), clear and pack all of your memory cards, pack up your cameras and lenses you'll be using the day before the wedding. Doing that alone keeps you from rushing around the house trying to do it all the day before (and causing you to forget something important).
I also go online and get some inspiration. Look at others' work and gather some ideas you'd like to try and pump up your inspiration. If you're one that constantly compares your work to others, then that might not help. Simply think about the shots you would like to get (as well as the shots the couple want!) and how you want to achieve it. Planning and organizing the day before makes it SO much easier during the wedding. It also doesn't hurt to write down a brief list of photos you want/need to take. When I'm nervous I tend to become absent-minded, so writing down a shot list and keeping it near me while I'm shooting helps a lot.
If it helps, you can also write down the names of the parents, grand-parents, bridesmaids, and groomsmen before the wedding so it's easier to find them during the formal shots after the ceremony. PS - I also find that it helps put them at ease as well if you know their names. It's a lot more personal!
5. Find something to do.
Work on some photos you've been editing. Call up a friend. Watch some mindless television. Heck, even do some of the dishes! It's a quick and temporary fix, but finding something to keep your mind occupied helps you forget being nervous for the time being.
6. You're going to do fine!
The couple wouldn't have chosen you if they didn't like you or your photos, right?
Simply relax and know that what you're feeling is completely normal and common. Once you're taking photos you'll completely forget why you were even nervous to begin with! Good luck!
No comments:
Post a Comment