How Professionals Can Prepare for a Wedding Shoot in The Crucible of COVID-19

It's no secret that the world as we know it has changed since the global pandemic hit in 2020.  A new normal is being birthed to accommodate the health measures.  Getting married is a lifelong dream for many; even amid the Coronavirus, couples are still making it work.  From organizing the event to having pictures of their special day, brides and grooms are pulling it off.  At Kinard Photography & Wedding Films, clients can have wedding snaps taken in a unique style without exceeding their budget.

Planning a wedding gig during a pandemic can be daunting.  So, how do you cope as a St. Charles, Missouri Wedding Photographer?  Apart from the standard tips, there are new safety protocols to comply with.  Let's look at some guidelines to ensure a shoot with your clients is safe and successful.

Virtual sit down with clients

Zoom meetings are a great way to minimize unnecessary contact while ensuring communication with clients.  Any St. Charles, Missouri Wedding Photographer knows it is crucial to sit down with the bride and groom before the grand day.  Going over the timeline and details of their wedding photography goals will be all on the same page.  This would also be a great time to confirm the date and venue of the ceremony.

Suppose the bride and groom are using the Le Belle Coeur; you will have enough time to develop creative photography ideas that will fit the sophisticated and stylish open ballroom space.  Come the day of the gig; you will have no trouble incorporating the beautiful wooden ceilings into the couples' first dance snaps.

Decide on your pricing

Thanks to COVID-19, we can say the current economy is not at its best.  Pre-pandemic charges may not be ideal, so you may need to make some changes.  However, before deciding on your new rates, communicate with other St. Charles, Missouri wedding photographers for what they are charging for their videography and photography services.

Take projects that bring you joy

The clients' mantra for a successful wedding photo session is hiring a St. Charles Wedding Photographer you get along with.  While this is true, it also works two ways.  Photographers are encouraged to take on projects they like.  It may be hard to turn down money, especially in these challenging times, but remember creativity and passion are cut from the same cloth.  Chances are you will give your all to a photoshoot you are creatively invested in that one you are not.  The amount of dedication you put into the shoot will impact the outcome of the snaps.

Pre-order camera gear

Determine the gear preferences for the shoot and order them early.  If your client couple is having an intimate event at the Old Stone Chapel, you can determine the equipment that will bring out the setting's unique rustic features.  In case you need to add more lighting to your gear set to flatter the exposed brick and high ceilings at the chapel, order them early.  With the COVID 19 restrictions, there may be delays in shipment.  Try to figure out the equipment you will need for photography in advance; this way, come the day of the gig, you can avoid any last-minute inconveniences.

Pre-visit the photoshoot venues

Going into the photo session without knowing what you are dealing with is never a good idea.  A visit to the venue before the day of the wedding gig will give you a clear view of what to expect come the day of the shooting.  Identifying the best spots and clearing what areas are open for photo sessions will simplify your work come the wedding day.

Embrace outdoor shoots

It's time that outdoor wedding shoots got more love.  Don't you think?  The outdoors offer plenty of air circulation, which is an excellent precaution for transmission of the COVID virus.  Just because confided indoors are discouraged for the gathering of many people doesn't mean clients cannot enjoy their photos and film of their day.

Missouri wedding photographers can turn the social distancing measure into a beautiful photo op by proposing outdoor shoots. The St. Charles, Missouri Wedding Photographer, can use the tropical gardens at The Conservatory Garden to create magical shots for the bride and groom.  The picturesque courtyards are also an excellent backdrop for outdoor themed snaps.

Things Professional Shooters Need to Add to Their Photo Tool Bags in 2021

Are you a St Charles, Missouri Wedding Photographer preparing for a shoot?  Apart from standard gear, extra batteries, and a nice hanger, here are the top essentials you include in your tool bag in 2021.

Extra pair of shoes

Weddings can be long, especially if your client needs your services for the entire day.  As you move from place to place, shooting the ceremony, your feet begin to get uncomfortable.  Bringing an extra pair of comfy shoes would help your feet breathe, and this way, you can focus on transforming the authentic moments of your clients' day into memorable photos and videos.

Clearance test

Some venue managers are very adamant about getting a clearance certificate before entering the premises.  To avoid getting turned away on the wedding shoot day, get tested and carry the document.  It would be a great inconvenience for you to be sent back when the bride and groom are waiting for you to capture intimate moments celebrating their love story.

An extra mask

The sweat and dirt that accumulates on the mask throughout the day defeats the whole purpose of wearing it in the first place.  So, carry an additional mask to switch out in the course of the event.  Also, in case your mask drops while shooting, you will have back up.

Hand sanitizer

Any St. Charles, Missouri Wedding Photographer, can tell you great photo shoots require one to go the extra mile.  To get some of the perfect shots, you may have to position yourself or hold on to not-so-hygienic things.  Carrying a sanitizer bottle to cleanse your hands is more convenient than having to rush to a sink every few minutes.

Water and snacks

Have you tried working on an empty stomach?  It is distracting and uncomfortable.  Although professionals at weddings are served food, you can never be too careful.  Carry your water and snacks, which you can consume throughout the day to keep your energy up.

Book your Missouri wedding photographer with Kinard Photography & Wedding Films for the ultimate stellar client experience.  Whatever your needs are, we have a team of experienced photographers who will work tirelessly to turn your St. Charles wedding photography vision into a reality.  Our services range from photography to videography wedding services, all geared towards capturing your day into quality photos and videos.  We uphold utmost professionalism when dealing with clients; thus, expect us at the venue at the arranged time with all the gear needed to capture all the best moments of your big day.  Enjoy your day knowing you can call us, message, or email us to create a wedding album you will live to remember.