Sharing exactly what I use to shoot UK and destination weddings
Having the right equipment can be make or break for a wedding photographer. Unlike amateur photography, the demands of wedding photography extend beyond creativity, requiring precision and skill to capture never-to-be-repeated moments in time. As such, equipment should be high quality, robust, and reliable to ensure you deliver stunning imagery every time. But at what cost?
In this blog, I’ll break down the essential gear you need, guide you through what’s worth investing in now and in the future, and provide you with a shopping list to get you started. For an even more in-depth guide on all aspects of becoming a successful photographer, check out my comprehensive guide linked at the end of this article.
Your camera and lenses are the core of your kit. There are many different types of cameras, but they fall into two main camps: DSLR and mirrorless.
Here’s what you need to know:
Cameras
Mirrorless cameras: These are lighter, easier to carry, and have advanced features without the need for lens calibration. They are the future of professional photography.
DSLR: While not as light or advanced as mirrorless cameras, DSLRs are still widely used for their reliability and range of compatible lenses and accessories.
Lenses
Lenses also fall into two main camps: Prime and Zoom.
- Prime Lenses: These lenses have fixed focal lengths like 35mm and are known for delivering superior image quality, especially in low-light conditions. They are preferred for indoor and outdoor weddings because they excel in poorly lit spaces. However, prime lenses are typically more expensive.
- Zoom Lenses: These lenses offer a range of focal lengths, providing more versatility. However, they generally have less aperture capability, allowing less light to enter the lens. While they are more affordable and convenient, they may not perform as well in low-light conditions.
- Kit lenses: Most mirrorless cameras have a “kit lens” option – a basic zoom lens included with the camera body. While these lenses are a good starting point, upgrading to prime lenses will significantly improve your image quality.
Marina and Freddie at Rosewood London
Professional equipment is an investment, but it doesn't have to break the bank. Knowing what’s worth the investment can save you from unnecessary spending.
Below, I’ve detailed what I would buy and in what order:
Starter essentials:
Camera body with 2 card slots and kit lens
Memory cards x2
External hard drive for backup
Here are all the links to my starter essentials
Optional or next upgrades:
- Additional camera body
- 35mm/ 50mm prime lenses
- Additional memory cards
- Additional batteries
- Case for additional batteries and cards
- Photography specific bag
- 35mm analogue film camera (I use take it easy to develop all film)
Here are all the links to the kit I use every day
Milan and Aarti and their destination Indian wedding
Public liability and professional indemnity insurance protect you while you work and are often required by many venues – even when second shooting. This coverage ensures you are safeguarded against potential claims and liabilities that could arise during a shoot.
Why you need insurance
- Professional Indemnity Insurance: This protects you if a client claims your services were inadequate or if you made a mistake that caused them financial loss.
Essential coverage
Ensuring you have the right coverage is a professional standard in the wedding photography industry. For reliable coverage, I recommend Policy Bee. They specialise in insurance for photographers and offer tailored policies that meet the specific needs of wedding photographers.
Details at Middleton Lodge Estate
For editing my galleries, I use Adobe’s Creative Photography Plan, which includes both Lightroom and Photoshop. These tools are essential for refining images and ensuring they meet professional standards.
Lightroom vs Lightroom Classic
There are two main versions of Lightroom: Lightroom and Lightroom Classic.
Each has its advantages:
Lightroom: Ideal for editing on the go, as it allows you to edit on your iPad or phone. This flexibility is great for quick previews and minor adjustments.
Lightroom Classic: Best for desktop editing and can be used without Wi-Fi, which is helpful when working in areas with limited internet access. It has robust features suitable for comprehensive photo editing.
Efficient culling process
Culling photos (selecting which images to edit) is essential for managing your workflow efficiently.
Here’s a quick method using the app Photo Mechanic:
- Go through your gallery: Press “1” for each image you want to edit.
What culling tools you need
Essentials:
Optional or next:
- Culling software: Photo Mechanic
- Presets: Faye Wilde Photography
- Gallery delivery
After the shoot and editing process, it’s time to deliver the images to your client. Choosing an aesthetic and on-brand gallery delivery service is really important at this stage because it communicates value to your client and enhances their overall experience.
Benefits of a good gallery delivery service
- Easy sharing: Clients can easily share their images with friends and family, leading to more referrals.
- Supplier collaboration: You can share images with suppliers, increasing your reach with your ideal client (always ensure you have permission to share).
- Testimonials and reviews: Direct links to testimonials can increase the chances of positive reviews.
- Sales features: User-friendly shopping can boost print sales and other upselling opportunities.
Recommended gallery providers
There are many gallery provider options, but the most popular ones in the UK are PicTime, Pixieset and Shootproof.
Essentials:
- Pixieset: Start with a free trial or plan to explore its features.
Optional upgrade:
- Pic time: Consider upgrading to PicTime for advanced sales tools and features to boost sales.
Details at Norwood Park
These essentials will set you on the path to success as a wedding photographer. Now that you’ve got the kit, you need a reliable process to keep you on track – even during the busy wedding season.
For a complete guide covering the next steps and more, check out my comprehensive guide, “How to Become a Wedding Photographer,” available here.
* This blog contains affiliate links.