For some time now, I have been meaning to write a little about my experience as an Intern for Wedding photographer Anna Wu and decided NOW was the time! So far I have enjoyed the experience and have learned a lot. It’s amazing how helping a professional gives you a broader picture of what it is to own your own business and how much work and dedication goes into it. This last part is what has helped me realize it’s just not for me (the business part), however, it has fueled my interest to continue with photography but as an assistant and/or second shooter during weddings.
I have assisted Anna at some weddings and seen close up how she goes on about her photography business, client interaction, work flow and some side personal projects (it’s a must to keep creativity alive!). I’d like to share a few things that I have learned as an intern, maybe it can spark your interest to assist or learn more about being a wedding photographer!
Here we go ….
- Being on time is like everywhere else, IMPORTANT!
- I’ve learned how to manage a wedding day and stick to a timeline as much as possible, as well as offer suggestions if there is something that could be done for the day to go by smoothly.
- To not feel rushed while shooting. One thing that I have realized through Ana’s help is that pacing my self is important in order to think, focus and capture what my eye sees and what my heart feels. I remember she once advised me that if I ever felt stuck or overwhelmed, to step back, observe what was going on at that moment and to continue shooting. It worked. 🙂
- I’ve learned to see what photos to take (the musts) and techniques required (good light, composition, etc.) although this of course can be a never ending learning process!
- How to treat brides and guests. Treating them as friends only helps us get more inspired 🙂
- The importance of building good relationships with new photographers. No need to be envious or catty. Willing to share ones experience with others is doing good to others and the wedding photography industry 🙂
- Oh! And if that weren’t enough, I have gotten this new interests in videography! So different from back in the day and can’t wait to learn more about it. Check out Seaglass Cinema for really moving wedding footage.
A lot learned and more ahead! Which brings me to another point. If you have looked into assisting a local wedding photographer, here are some tips to make the best of it!
- Be confident, sociable and friendly to everyone when you arrive to the wedding. What ever you do, remember that everything you do reflects on the main photographer.
- Dress appropriately 🙂 (did anyone say NO jeans?!)
- Keep a copy of the wedding timeline handy so you can help the main photographer keep track of what is next up if needed.
- Maintain eye contact when ever possible with main photographer in case they need anything and don’t have to be searching for you!
- Wedding photographers forget they need to drink water.. Yeap! be willing to offer water, carry gear, etc.. In general, being helpful and taking initiative is a plus!
- Knowing photography gear is important. Depending on the photographer you will have to know certain things.
- Be good company 🙂
- Be willing to learn and take guidance.
- Assistants don’t normally shoot, but observe and help. it’s not about you, its about HELPING the main photographer 😉
Thank you Anna for allowing me to tag along and help you during weddings and other projects. You are VERY fun to work with and could not be more happier being your intern!!
And for memories sake, here are some weddings and events I have been happy to be a part of 🙂
-From book shipping to party planning, the whole process has been exciting to see.
–DIY Fabric & Ribbon Backdrop was fun learning how to make … after a needle poke!
Sewing might just NOT be my calling 🙁
-Helping prepare for the Pointe of View Party in SF where Anna’s beautiful ballerina photo book was showcased.
–DIY cake stand Amazing what simple supplies and imagination can do!
–Anne & kyle’s wedding Loved, LOVED this wedding! Beautifuly captured! The whole wedding was very “Gatsby-ISH” 🙂
–Caterina & John’s wedding A lovely Palo Alto wedding. There are those fast passed weddings, and then there are these calm, relaxed ones.
–Amy & David’s wedding A wedding in the wine country always makes for unforgettable events!
–Small Prints / pointe of view A lot of detail goes in to personal projects too and presentation is key 🙂
–Rosa | Intern A mini session where I got insight on what goes into posing and portrait sessions.. Always SO different when I am the one in front of the camera!