...but how do you handle friends being overconfident in your work?? I have a good well-meaning friend that I did some work headshots for who has referred a friend of a friend to me for a wedding shoot. It pays pretty well, which to me means I'm not ready!! ...well, that and the fact that I'M NOT READY!
What's the best way to handle?? If I knew someone in the area who did weddings, I would gladly refer this person to them and ask for the opportunity to shadow or assist, but I don't! Should try to find someone based on other referrals?? Should I decline altogether and deny the opportunity to get some experience under my belt? Any suggestions???
In my personal opinion, I think you are ready - your photos are spectacular! But you can do what I did when a friend asked me to shoot his wedding (and I am most definitely NOT at that calibre) - which was volunteer to be a "back-up" photographer at no charge, and they were welcome to have any of my shots that turned out well. It's a win-win, you get the experience, and can pick the pro's brain while you're at it, and they get guaranteed great wedding shots! Unfortunately that still leaves the problem of them finding a photographer now......
I always believe that honesty is the best policy. (assuming it's the truth) just say that you are flattered, but that you don't feel like you are ready for this. Let them know that this would be your first wedding and that you don't want to do anything that might spoil their special day.
Probably this is sacrilage to anyone who does this professionally, but be willing to say that photos aren't the most important thing. K and I have looked at our wedding photos, maybe three times after the first year (we've been married 15 years) and mostly that was because we were moving and stumbled over the albums.
And of course, you are more than ready for this. Your shots are amazing. The only thing you might miss are the "expected" shots that the bride and groom might have that only experience can provide.
My friends offered to pay me for maternity photos and I said since it was a first time and I would be uncomfortable charging them. You can ask the couple if you can shoot engagement photos or the shower to see if they will be satisfied with your work prior to their main event since you do not have a wedding portfolio.
I agree that you should see about an engagement shoot first. If it goes well, I say go for the wedding. Make sure you're upfront that you're just starting out, and I'm sure they'll understand you're nervous. I think you should do it though. Get some good experience, and if you're not happy with it once all is said and done, you then know you should decline in the future.
I've seen your portraits...you have an innate ability to capture the spirit and personality. But I think @brumbe had a fantastic idea. Really, you do amazing portraits. Read up on it! Isn't there a Dummies book for that? ;)
Me personally, the only reason I have my DSLR is because my MIL wanted me to shoot her my SIL wedding (instead of paying a photog, she paid me w/a camera!) I told her I wasn't up to par, and shouldn't be THE only photog. She said a month would be enough time to get to know the camera AND figure out how to get the shots.....wow, I was right...however, I got the shots both my MIL and SIL wanted (luckily). I have re-edited them since and I am happier with the results........that being said. You are lightyears above what I was and where I am right now so YOU will do AMAZING! That being said, the bride and groom should understand that you may take more time than a "pro" to edit but that in the end, it will be worth it. I agree with @aj1268@alecio and @brumbe , judging by what I have seen in your 365 portfolio, you are more than ready, and you will do an amazing job. Just study up on photography styles, methods, etc. Ask the bride/groom what they want to see and make sure to get those shots along with ones you see through your artistic eye. After all, thats why she asked you! ( I hope this all makes sense, mojitos are flowing tonight! lol)
@sdpace your work is awesome and you have to start a journey with the first step...I would say take a leap of faith run with your talent and instincts and I think you may be pleasantly surprised
I agree, your photos are awesome. If you decide to take it on, just do some research, have an idea in your head of the shots and poses you (and they) would like to catch and you will do a brilliant job.
I think as artists we are always our own worst critic which does not bode well on taking on bigger, more lucrative or challenging projects. Your friends mean well and I would think, would not recommend you for a wedding only to see you fail. If they are good friends and know your work - I would listen to them - and to 365 friends (photographers in their own right) - BE BRAVE!.... your work is awesome and if you still have doubts - show the prospective couple your albums and if they see what we see...you are well on your way to career in photography. And if they don't, remember that photography is extremely subjective and another couple certainly will. We believe in you! And in the words of Nike - JUST DO IT!
'Your big opportunity may be right where you are now. - Napoleon Hill
I understand you so well, being myself not self-confident at all about my photographic skills! A wedding is a lot of pressure of course. Do these people know your work personally, or just through a friend of a friend? If they know about your work, then they will know about what to expect for the wedding. You can explain them you're not a professional and you cannot guarantee that they will have the photos they may expect. I looked at your pics and wondered why I'm not following you yet (I will do now). What you're doing is very good, creative, artistic, and the photos are of good quality. But if you don't feel it, the backup photographer idea is good.
Do you have insurance? Suitable equipment for varying (often poor light) environments? What about backup equipment if something breaks? Written contracts? Registered business? A contingency for if you are suddenly ill and cannot shoot on the day?
IMO those are the questions that need asking. I don't think your skills are the issue, but protecting yourself, your reputation, and your future are worth thinking about.
People here are so very supportive. To a fault. Awesome people - no doubt about it - but don't let the warm, fuzzy feelings make your decisions for you.
Good luck!
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Probably this is sacrilage to anyone who does this professionally, but be willing to say that photos aren't the most important thing. K and I have looked at our wedding photos, maybe three times after the first year (we've been married 15 years) and mostly that was because we were moving and stumbled over the albums.
And of course, you are more than ready for this. Your shots are amazing. The only thing you might miss are the "expected" shots that the bride and groom might have that only experience can provide.
'Your big opportunity may be right where you are now. - Napoleon Hill
Simples.
IMO those are the questions that need asking. I don't think your skills are the issue, but protecting yourself, your reputation, and your future are worth thinking about.
People here are so very supportive. To a fault. Awesome people - no doubt about it - but don't let the warm, fuzzy feelings make your decisions for you.
Good luck!