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asked to shoot wedding for the first time-can you help,please?

Probably too late for this wedding, but some thing I did 3 years ago may apply at some future event. Basically I declined to shoot a friend's wedding reception. They arranged for an other friend to be the 'lead' photographer and to curate photos from other guests. This friend let the other guests know what the online photo service address was, and invited everybody to submit photos - from which an Apple book was created. In this scenario I was more than happy to bring my camera and to shoot photos that were very much in my style since I was under no obligation to record anything.

When I got my copy of the book (we hosted the wedding in our backyard so it was 'thank you' present) I was pleased that so many of my contributions were used. I also noticed that with so many photos to choose from, many from very good cameras, the overall collection was as good as many pro wedding photo albums. A modern version of the disposable cameras.
 
ok, the flast SB 700 arrived. What would you suggest that I try or do first with it? (manual in german so can't read it :))) )
 
A couple things I've learned over the years shooting weddings as a friend oppose to a hired "professional."

Hired professionals are paid to do a good job, so don't get in their way. You're there to take pictures and have fun; they're just there to take pictures.

Also equipment doesn't really matter that much. Personally I find it hard to haul around a big lens combo with a flash. I prefer using natural lighting and just making do with what I have. Personally if I'm invited as a guest to take pictures, then I will act like a guest. ;)

If you're curious, my friends have found some of the best shots were taking with my iPhone (many are framed and put in up for display) while we're all totally drunk, but having a great time!


If I read this all wrong and you're being paid, then I would decline the opportunity and just attend as a guest.


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One more thing: If you're set on bring a big camera and flash, I would suggest an all-around lens; my choice is a 18-200 for DX and a 28-300 for FX; sure there is crazy distortion all over the place, and the lens isn't particularly fast, but you're a one-man team and you don't want to have to change lenses in a middle of a shot. Plus nobody is going to look at a picture for distortion if the overall image is good.
 
You've got the flash but the manual would also be a great idea. Download it from the manufacturers website. Take care however as there are some strange websites out there that try to charge for things that should be free.
Next, decide what sort of shots you want to take using the flash. Fill in flash is a good technique to use when you are outside and your subject's face can be in shadow or you may want to use the flash to freeze movement. Whatever the shots are that you want to take, try to practise them before the event. Rope in some friends to play the part in the type of photos that you want to take and practise a lot.
Hope the wedding goes well. Come back and let us know how you get on. I'm keeping all my fingers crossed for you. Hope that you take some great pictures at the wedding and that you enjoy yourself.
 
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