Here’s another round of Ask’d & Answered. Today’s question is from Hope:
“I’d love to read more about how you do formals, what your favorite lenses are, and where you draw creative inspiration from! :o)”
I answered a bit about Inspiration on a previous A&A, so I’ll dive into the formals and lenses.
My favorite lens is the Nikon 50 1.4. But its not the lens I use most for weddings. I use the Tamron 17-50 2.8 the most, reason being that I like the option of going from wide to normal range in one lens during a fast pace wedding when I can’t change lenses quickly. I also love my old beat up Nikon 180 2.8 lens. It takes amazing sharp photos with great color saturation. Here’s an example:
I’m actually looking to add the Nikon 85 and Nikon 135 to my arsenal very soon. I prefer prime lenses because they are faster, quieter, sharper (to me), and force me to move to compose in camera rather than relying on a zoom to compose the shot.
Formals
There are three parts to formals for me. First, the Bride and Groom with the bridal party, second the family and third, the bride and groom alone.
- I try to keep the bridal party formals fun and relaxed. I like casual poses and I like to do them in under 10 minutes depending on the size. I get a head shot of each person, then a group with all the guys, another group with all the girls. Another with the entire party set up in haphazard formation, and then a few with the bride with the guys and the groom with the girls. The flower girl and ring bearer is included in all that too if they are present.
- The family formals are a little more traditional. I ask my couples to write a list of every group they want so that we can work through it quickly. I also ask that they assign a bridesmaid or someone else familiar with the family to be in charge of the list to gather up people and get them ready. Depending on the number of groups, I try to get this done in 10-20 minutes.
- The bride and groom formals is one of my favorites of the day because it allows them to relax and really spend some time alone with each other. Typically we have already picked out a location, I evaluate where the best light is (natural light is the best), and basically set them on their way. I ask them to just interact naturally and talk about how this day is finally here. I don’t direct too much, but will guide them as we walk around. Very casual, fun, relaxed.
Well there you have it. Thanks Hope for the question. I’ll be hanging out in the comments section answering any other questions on this topic. Also feel free to ask anything else you want to know.. photo related or not :)
Go out and shoot!!!
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