Just as on a wrestling mat, there’s no place to hide on a beach wedding!
So why would one want to hide on a wedding day?
Well, unlike in a church or other wedding location everything takes place in direct sunlight and given that Murphy’s Law will be in effect the sun is usually out in its brightest form.
Bright sunlight will of course create some pretty harsh shadows and there’s little hope of trees or other structures to give some shade.
In situations like this one cannot hide one’s inexperience or lack of skill. Correct Exposure is critical and that’s a little tougher than usual as the obvious solution that we usually turn to, adding some flash, just doesn’t work for many of the desired shots because of the power required to overcome the effects of the sun.
I tip my hat to the photographers in Florida, Jamaica and such places who do this, and do it well, regularly.
For brides: if you are planning a beach wedding, either in New Jersey or some sunny destination I don’t mean to imply that it’s a bad idea at all. Beach weddings are a lot of fun. I do suggest though that it is not the time to rely on someone who is “building a portfolio” or the well-meaning amateur. This is truly a job for a pro.
Also do check and see if a permit is required.
For the professionals a few do’s and don’ts;
Do have a full bottle of water on you and don’t forget to drink plenty beforehand.
Do wear a hat
Do wear shoes that provide some traction. I don’t suggest going barefoot-that sand can be hot, it can be cold and it can be difficult to walk on draining energy.
Do wear sunscreen. I keep a small stick of roll-on Neutrogena in my car, it has come in very handy.
Don’t carry a camera bag onto the beach. Lay nothing on the sand. Either carry everything on your person or have an assistant carry and hold extra gear.
So does one really need to hide at a beach wedding? Not at all, with a little planning, a good dose of experience and a good attitude there’s really no need to hide at all when photographing beach weddings. I hope you enjoy these few images I shot at last weekend’s wedding on the beach by the Lighthouse in Cape May, NJ.
