I’m a Wedding Photographer?!

Lately, I’ve had photographic services requested of me, which is flattering, exciting, and weird all at the same time. I’ve been asked to take portraits in the past, just not quite at the pace of the past few weeks. The first incoming request was for a wedding at 7:00pm December 31st at Mission San Jose in San Antonio. The combination of time + place + event makes for a nerve-wracking situation. After thoroughly expressing my lack of experience, the bride was very kind to say that she still preferred that I do it. Sweet! Seeing as how I have so little wedding experience (I’ve done one for a cousin) and little to no experience with a flash (I know the principles, just haven’t had much hands-on experience), I figured I’d better get some practice.
To make a potentially long story very very short, I just happened to see a message in an online forum where a pro photographer was asking for some emergency help shooting a wedding. His assistant had bailed out at the last minute. I was nervous to respond, but was completely honest about my level of experience. Turns out I was the second of only two responses he received and he was excited I could do more that press the shutter button, so he invited me out to Katy to help. Joe was super nice, and relieved any potential for pressure by assuring me that he would cover all the critical shots, and whatever I get is bonus. I think I got some good shots, if I may be so bold. Have a look in the archive and at the photoblog Saturday and Sunday entries.

Now, the real question is, “do I want to get into this business?” I had a lot of fun at the Saturday wedding, but I think this was the best possible scenario; being relieved of pressure by the pro, working with a solid, happy photographer, a wonderful couple, and an equally enjoyable group of attendants and guests. It’s like shooting par your first day on the course. I do enjoy photography, and love working with people, so maybe it fits. We’ll see. I’m hoping Joe calls me back for another round.