Chapter Eleven - A Wedding Disaster

As a wedding photographer, I have seen my fair share of wedding disasters. One of the most memorable ones was many years ago in New Jersey, when I arrived at the venue and found out that the bride and groom had not secured the necessary permits for the outdoor ceremony. The venue staff was frantically trying to find a solution, but it was clear that the ceremony would have to be moved indoors. The bride was in tears, and the groom was trying his best to console her.

As we moved inside, I realized that the lighting was terrible. The room was dimly lit, and the walls were painted a dark color, making it difficult to capture good photos. I tried my best to adjust my camera settings, and set up my off camera flashes around the room, but it was a losing battle, this room was just not meant for a nice ceremony, it looked more like a storage for event chairs and tables. The ceremony began, and I started taking photos, but I knew that they would not be up to my usual standards.

After the ceremony, we moved outside for the group photos. It was an incredibly windy day, but the lighting was perfect in the most unfortunate direction, the wind was blowing from behind where I wanted my subjects, so now their hair was all in their faces. If I had turned us all around 180 degrees, I would have had a nice background of a parking lot, which is the worst background for any photos. I was rushed by the coordinators because we only had a short period of time due to the ceremony situation taking a lot longer time than expected and it was cutting into my photo time.

As the reception began, I realized that the DJ was not prepared. He did not have the right equipment, and the music was terrible. The guests were not dancing, and the atmosphere was awkward. I tried to capture candid moments, but there were none to be found. I remember a lot of the guests also kind of knew that it was a dud so some of the guests decided to just get hammered, and there were two guys that evidently had a disagreement and they began throwing blows but immediately got stopped by other groomsmen.

At the end of the night, I packed up my equipment and left, feeling disappointed. I knew that the photos would not be up to my usual standards, and I felt terrible for the bride and groom. It was a disaster of a wedding, and I knew that they would not have the memories that they had hoped for.

There are so many stories from wedding professionals about great weddings, horrible weddings, and everything in between. There isn’t much you can do during the day but try your best. Luckily, I have the greatest clients ever and they are all super cool and understanding. At the end of the night, both them and I kept saying sorry to each other as if was both of our faults. This particular couple totally understood it was a tough day and loved my photos anyways.

Chapter Six - Vegas Strips Wedding Photos: Don't Get Hitched by the Traps!

As a wedding photographer, I've seen my fair share of unique and interesting locations for photoshoots. But nothing quite compares to the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas Strip. With its bright lights, iconic landmarks, and endless possibilities, it's no wonder couples flock here to capture their special day.

However, taking wedding photos on the Las Vegas Strip can come with its own set of challenges. From navigating crowds of tourists to dealing with unpredictable weather, it's important to be prepared for anything. In this article, I'll share my top tips for making the most out of your Las Vegas Strip wedding photoshoot, including what to look out for and how to ensure your photos turn out stunning.

Why Las Vegas is a Popular Destination for Wedding Photos

Las Vegas is a city that is known for its bright lights, lively atmosphere, and endless entertainment options. It's no wonder that it has become a popular destination for couples looking to take their wedding photos. As a photographer who has shot many weddings on the Las Vegas strip, I can attest to the fact that there are several reasons why this city is a great place to capture beautiful and unique wedding photos.

Firstly, Las Vegas is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world. From the famous "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas" sign to the towering replica of the Eiffel Tower, there are plenty of backdrops that will make your wedding photos stand out. These landmarks are not only visually stunning, but they also provide a sense of place and context to your photos.

Another reason why Las Vegas is a great destination for wedding photos is the variety of settings that are available. Whether you want to shoot in a lush garden, a modern hotel, or a classic chapel, there are options for every taste and style. Plus, the weather in Las Vegas is generally sunny and warm, making it an ideal location for outdoor shoots.

Finally, Las Vegas is a city that is all about having fun and letting loose. This means that you and your partner can get creative with your wedding photos and take some fun and playful shots that truly capture your personalities. Whether you want to pose with Elvis, ride in a limousine, or take a dip in a pool, the possibilities are endless in Las Vegas.

Overall, Las Vegas is a city that offers a unique and exciting backdrop for wedding photos. From the iconic landmarks to the variety of settings and the fun-loving atmosphere, there are plenty of reasons why couples choose to capture their special day in this vibrant city.

Tips for Taking Wedding Photos on the Las Vegas Strip

As a photographer, I've had the pleasure of capturing many beautiful wedding photos on the Las Vegas Strip. However, the Strip can be overwhelming, and there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you get the best shots possible. Here are my top tips for taking wedding photos on the Las Vegas Strip:

Choosing the Right Time of Day

Timing is everything when it comes to taking wedding photos on the Las Vegas Strip. The best time to take photos is during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun is not too harsh, and the lighting is soft and flattering. Avoid taking photos during midday when the sun is at its highest, as this can create harsh shadows and make it difficult to capture the perfect shot.

Finding the Perfect Location

The Las Vegas Strip is full of iconic locations that make for stunning backdrops for wedding photos. However, it's essential to find a location that is not too crowded and has a unique and memorable look. Some of my favorite locations include the Bellagio Fountains, the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas, and the Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign. Keep in mind that many of these locations require permits, so be sure to check with the appropriate authorities before setting up your shoot.

Dealing with Crowds and Traffic

The Las Vegas Strip is always bustling with tourists and traffic, which can make it challenging to take wedding photos. To avoid crowds, try to schedule your shoot during non-peak hours and choose locations that are off the beaten path. If you do encounter crowds, be patient and wait for the perfect moment to capture your shot. Remember, you can always edit out unwanted people or objects in post-production.

In conclusion, taking wedding photos on the Las Vegas Strip can be a fun and exciting experience. By choosing the right time of day, finding the perfect location, and dealing with crowds and traffic, you can capture stunning photos that will be cherished for a lifetime.