- Snapping photos while the photographer is shooting – Nothing annoys a photographer more than guests snapping away while they are setting up a shot. People may not realize, but this issue can ruin lots of images. Flashes from other cameras can greatly affect the image and well as distract the people in the pose. At one wedding, I set up some formal poses with the bride, groom and their parents. Later I realized that two of the really good shots couldn’t be used because the mother of the bride was looking at a guest’s camera apparently instead of mine. And though I know what to do to eliminate red eye, when other flashes are in play, it makes all your attempts for naught. Many photographers will bring this to your attention quickly, but always be mindful of the paid professional and let them get the pictures first. I’m always more than happy to step aside and let a few guests snap the set pose AFTER I’m done.
- Not properly communicating where to be at event/Sudden change of plans – Weddings, Quinceaneras, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs are often elaborate with tons of people running around. I like to stay in the background and move with the action. If you do not properly tell me what changes went on and how the format of the event will alter, I run the chance of missing a photo op—YOUR photo op. Photographers understand that often things go awry and sudden changes take place, but even if you’re too busy to do it, please send someone to give us a heads up. The one you hired wants to do a great job for you, and if they aren’t up to speed what’s going on, they can miss a lot of action that you paid them to capture.
- Showing up late for a portrait shoot – This goes both ways. Being late is just plan annoying. When a portrait shoot is scheduled, a lot was done to make it possible. We all brought our schedules together and blocked time to get the best images we can get. Often spots are reserved and/or paid areas to allow minimal interference from others. When time is eaten up by tardiness, you run the risk of your photographer trying to allocate time to get everything—or worst yet, rush to get it done. You’re rushed, they’re rushed and suddenly the relaxed feeling of picture taking has been lost. It’s just as important to respect the photographer’s time as they respect yours.
- Not wearing proper shoes based on location – Many young girls celebrating their Quinceanera has thanked me later when I stressed they needed to wear COMFORTABLE shoes. A lot of locations people like to have their images taken are outdoors. Even more of them are rugged outdoors. Sure, gravel here and there isn’t a big deal until you have to walk in it half a mile in heels. Some locations require lots of walking so it’s best to wear something comfy at least while in motion. If ladies are insistent on wearing heels for the shoot, I tell them to at least wear sneakers between the shoot. It’s actually a safety issue as it wouldn’t be fun to attend your event with a sprained or broken ankle from falling over some envious rocks in your stilettos.
- Blocking my view of a bride & groom shot - In a business where milliseconds count, it’s a huge annoyance to have a clear area, anticipate a shot, only to have a person (or several) come over and stand in my view and potential miss the op. In most cases, in a church, where there are strict rules as to where I am supposed to be and what to do, you paint a photographer into a corner when you stand in their way. Remember, the couple is paying money for them to get these photos. I stay mindful of keeping out the way the entire time I’m working all the while getting the shots the happy couple needs. Help me do that by giving me a little room to work :)
Clarissa Fuselier is a "Semi-pro" photographer based in Austin, Texas. She has respect for all photographers regardless of backgrounds - formal or informal, pro or amateur. When she's not snapping away at a gig or for fun, she's working, doing volunteer work, playing with her wondermutt or playing a little Tetris. Got a question? She can be reached at fuselierphotography@gmail.com.
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