Weddings can be fun, but you will be working under enormous pressure, as you are dealing with time restraint and only a small window of opportunity to get the shot, there are no "re-do's".
I am going to try and walk you through what I consider to be important. This will basically be an overview, I would assume if you were to take on a wedding as a photographer, you would know how to use your camera. However I will mention this; going into a wedding with only one camera is looking for trouble. One camera should have a long lens (70 - 200mm / 2.8f) and the other a wide with appropriate individual settings; due to the time restraint you won't have time to still swap lenses and change settings.
I find the most important part of your shoot, the preparation. The meeting of the couple and getting to know them and personalising the shoot to their needs. the reconnaissance of the dress, ceremony and reception venues, getting to know the routes so to avoid getting lost along the way, and also to pre-select your "couple shoot" locations. Testing the light inside the church to see if you may need an alternative light source, as well as pre-selecting your camera settings for interior and exterior.
If you are struggling with available light, don't be too concerned, boost your ISO to 1600 and correct the exposure / white-balance afterwards (remember to shoot in RAW). The important thing is, are the images sharp?
In the event of it being extremely bright outside, where the sun causes terrible shadows, have your flash ready. Shoot on aperture priority and open it up as to not overexpose. If it is an overcast day, say thanks, because you were blessed with a natural light-box.
This may sound a little "obvious", but remember charging your batteries and even having extra back-up batteries available. Double check your camera bag, and make sure you have everything needed for the shoot.
Basic list of shots to remember...
• Getting ready (bride & some groom photos if possible)
• Church arrival (getting out of the car)
• The ceremony (remember the guests as well, their expressions could be priceless)
• Details and product (rings, flowers, dress, jewellery etc.)
• Bride (think glamour)
• Bride and groom (keep them separated from the guests)
• Families of the bride and groom (have the best man assist in getting everyone ready)
• Group shot (have a ladder available)
• Cutting of the cake
• Speeches and the first dance
As a suggestion, have a couple energy bars and water on hand, it is a long day and you will need all the energy you can get.
Weddings are fun, as you get to shoot various styles and it truly tests your ability as a professional photographer.
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