Week 1 Tip: Remembering Light

This topic wasn't necessarily going to be the one I wanted to lead with, but at the last minute, I was reminded by a couple of the necessity of time and sun.

Sunrise and sunset are very important to a wedding. But they're even more important to a photographer. Now I'm sure everyone is saying NO KIDDING, but you would be surprised how many couples, specifically those planning fall and winter weddings, plan on outdoor activities or photos after 6 p.m.

This is typically when I remind couples that while the sun might be out until 9 p.m. during the summer, by 6:15 p.m. in October, I'm out of usable light.

While Dan and I have been known to pull a rabbit out of the proverbial hat from time to time, we CANNOT bring back the sun.

I'm not going to offer an extensive light lesson, but the examples to the left will give you good information.

1. Engagement shot taken in The Sculpture Gardens in Washington around 4 p.m. Lots of light, no flash.

2. Same couple in Alexandria by 6 p.m. No flash, but I had to find light, such as a home's lanterns, to squeeze just amount of light into the shot. I also had to do some medium-level Photoshop work to make it look as bright as it does.

3. Early afternoon wedding in August. Shading the light it's so bright and Hot. Williamsburg, VA.

4. Night ceremony in Williamsburg, VA outside of Wren Chapel. Except this is around 6:30, 7 p.m. It was a December wedding. The fun shots had to be done as time exposures. JPG Photography can do it, but the light element changes our options.

5. A great butterfly release took place in August, late. We had no light and had to pose this beautiful shot. I love it! But again, a butterfly release at noon is different than midnight.

6. A November wedding around 5:30 p.m. I took a quick few shots of Jody in Gloucester. Another 30 minutes, and I would have had no light.

7. Late afternoon shot in May. We have lots of light for a slight silhouette.

I hope this helps couples consider their wedding date and activities. A good photographer can always work with the conditions, but he or she might have to use the tripod to get the shot. It's up to the couple to decide what kind of shot they want, indoors or outdoors, and consider the available light with the photographer.

Best,
Joe