[Read Time - 5 Minutes]
I don’t usually talk about the technical aspects of photography, primarily because there are waaay more qualified people than I am to talk about gear.
As someone who is working to help photographers learn and appreciate the business of wedding photography, I do think it’s extremely important to have the necessary tools to shoot them, so today I’ll cover the essentials and even a few optional items you’ll need to successfully photograph a wedding.
Let’s dig in!
Essential Items
(2) Cameras (minimum) - Film or digital, and if you have a third, even better. I have an older third body in case something truly horrible happens to my first two bodies.
(2) Lenses (minimum) - I carry a 24-70mm 2.8, which is my workhorse and a 70-200mm 2.8 for the ceremony. I also stow a 50mm 1.4 because they’re small and can be used for most anything except getting in super close.
(2) Flash Speedlights - Unless you plan to shoot only outdoor weddings during the day (good luck), you’ll need an on-camera flash at a minimum and something to use off camera if you really want to do it well.
Cards or Film - Don’t skimp on this. You can always come home with empty cards, but you can never run out during the wedding. I’m not neurotic or anything, but I prefer to keep a few cards stashed in my car, a hidden pocket in my bag and trunk, and even in my pants pocket, just in case.
Camera Bag with Wheels: You might like a backpack for photography, but trust me on this, wheels are the way to go.
You’ll be pulling your gear through churches, halls, country clubs, hotels, and airports, and a trusty bag with plenty of space and good wheels is a must. I use the ThinkTank International because it’s approved for international carry-on travel.
Batteries - Another thing not to skimp on. Batteries for your cameras, batteries for your flash - your gear runs on power and doesn’t run without it. I like to have two sets of batteries for each camera, three sets of extra batteries for my flash and a battery pack for my speedlight.
I will say there is comfort in knowing you have more than enough power for whatever the night holds.
I know that doesn’t seem like much gear for such a big day, but these are the necessary items.
Optional Items
There are hundreds of companies that make a living creating optional items for photographers.
As you can imagine, there are a few things you can add to your bag to make your work easier and even make your images better.
Photo Bracket - I know it’s a bit old-school, but when you’re using an on-camera flash in a dark church, getting that flash directly above your lens puts the shadow directly behind your subject, not off to the side like an amateur.
Yes, I know Denis Reggie’s bounce flash technique, which he calls “foofing,” works wonderfully well in some venues but not so much in others. Unless you want your images to look like a rookie’s, this is a good option.
Flash Triggers - Off-camera flash is a fantastic way to add depth and professionalism to your work, and wireless radio triggers are the way to go. There are a few brands, and depending on your flash system, you can find the one that syncs with your camera brand.
I keep a master and two remotes in my bag at all times and use them for group photos, with a light stand and the flash set to around 9 feet. Occasionally, I’ll opt for a creative shot with my couple, getting low and having the flash up high. I could use a traditional light stand for this, but I prefer a VLS (Voice-activated Light Stand) in the form of a groomsman holding the light at the exact angle I need.
Bridal Helpers
In one of the small zipper pockets, I keep a random assortment of small items that have come in handy more than a few times.
Sewing Kit - I like the little one you get from a hotel. Buttons break, and this kit is a lifesaver.
Crochet Hook - The medium size one works nicely on the backs of those button-up wedding dresses. They make the loops more elastic these days, but they’re still challenging to use, and the hook helps a lot.
Small Leatherman - These small tools fit easily in your bag and having small scissors, tweezers and a little knife in one tool comes in very handy.
Wet Wipes - Cleanliness is next to Godliness
Emory Board - Tidy nails are desirable to everyone.
Pins - A few bobby pins and a couple of safety pins are always good to have, and yes, I’ve fixed pants, dresses and plenty of hair with my supplies.
Random Supplies
Your camera bag has plenty of pockets for necessary items. Some are personal for you, and some will be extremely valuable to someone at some point.
Small Light Stand
Mounts for Flash to Light Stand
Tissues or Napkins
Handkerchief
Phone Charging Cables
Mini Flashlight
Fine Point Sharpie
Ballpoint Pen
A Few Notecards
Heavy Rubberbands
Microfiber Cloth
Medium Binder Clips
Flash Shoe Mount
Color Correction Gel
Pocket LED Light
SD Card Reader
USB Drive
Keeping a well-stocked camera bag doesn’t have to be a chore, but it is a responsibility you should take seriously.
For you, it’s simply about being prepared for a big workday, but for your bride and groom, it’s about having everything you need to make this day perfect for them.
“Spectacular achievement is always preceded by unspectacular preparation.”
Robert H. Schuller
Being prepared for anything on a wedding is just one of the little parts of the “inner game of wedding photography.”
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