Personality. As a photographer and mainly a wedding photographer, you deal with people all the time. The people you photograph at weddings are not paid talent that knows how to pose; they are average looking people with probably no experience posing for a camera. It is your job to be able to position them and then put them at ease so that you can get an accurate shot from them.
Humor. This one is not a requirement, but it’s definitely helpful. If you can put your subjects at ease by making them laugh, this will go a long way.
Trustworthiness. This is the most important day for your couples, and they need to know that they can trust you to get the shot right. Being honest, trustworthy, and confident will lead your clients to believe in you and be at ease.
Attitude. What I mean is you should have a go with the flow attitude. Weddings do not occur in a controlled environment where you have time to retake and change things; weddings happen in flux. There are specific shots you need to get, but how and sometimes when and where can vary, and as a photographer, you need to be able to adapt with a positive attitude and not control the situation. Remember, the day is not about you or your craft, it’s about the couple and their experience.
Organization. This is more of a skill rather than a personality trait, but it’s still essential! Being organized and information takes little effort on your part, but it helps you out endlessly. Before each shoot, I write a list of all the equipment I need, a shot list, printed out directions to the venue(this may sound archaic, but you’ll need if you have no service), and any information about the couple or their family dynamic I may need.
Drive. You have to be willing to do anything to get the shot. Obviously, don’t interrupt the ceremony, but if you have to get on the ground to get a good shoot, you should do it.
Flexibility. Weather can change at a moment’s notice; you have to be prepared for it. Having enough technical camera knowledge will enable you to adapt to any crisis that arises.
Passion. I believe the best people in any profession genuinely love what they do. This love and passion come through in people’s work.
Focus. Having enough focus to single in on the problem
Have a detailed Big Picture. As a wedding photographer, you must be able to focus on the small details that make up a wedding, but you also must see the big picture and view the wedding as a whole. This spectrum thinking will allow you to be a successful wedding photographer.
