Flash Photography Lighting

Non-Flash Photography wedding? Venue?

I’m planning my wedding, and i don’t want flash photography during the ceremony. Is there a type of lighting i should be looking for in a venue? Should i hire a photography before choosing a venue, to get his opinion prior to booking? I dont know anything about photography, or lighting, and have just started the planning process. Any help would be great.
In response, I went to a wedding where the photographer’s flash was blinding. Not to mention, the guests were like paparazzi! It was insane as the bride walked down the isle, and you couldn’t hear the vows over the “clicks”. As you said, i would like a venue with a ton of light, prferably daylight, which is why i asked if i should get a photographer’s opinion before booking.

Hi Samara,

Choose the venue that is best for you, and then find a photographer with the high-end cameras, lenses, and skill needed to work in low light. It’s your wedding, and it should take place where you really want it to, not where it’s best for your photographer.

I’m a professional wedding photographer. I almost never use flash during the ceremony. In the church, the flash is on only during the processional, when everyone is coming down the aisle, and then it remains off until after the pronouncement of you and your husband as man and wife. It may go on again for “the kiss”. So the most sacred parts of the ceremony such as the exchange of vows and rings, unity candle, readings, etc. all take place without the flash disrupting the mood that should prevail during the wedding. I use “fast” image-stabilized lenses that pick up lots of light and create sharp images, even in dark church interiors. My high-end professional cameras have super-sensitive sensors for low-light photography. And I sometimes use a “monopod” to steady the camera.

It is also absolutely appropriate for you to put a note in your wedding program that guests receive, that says something like “Remember to turn your cell phones off during the service, and please no flash photography”. Is Aunt Millie going to still use the flash cause she doesn’t know how to turn it off? Yes, probably. But you may be able to cut down a little on the Paparazzi Effect.

Best wishes for a great wedding day, and lots of beautiful photographs to remember it by.

George
Certified Professional Photographer

http://www.NYPortraits.com

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