You have to start somewhere.
Hi everyone!
I just wanted to say that I was in a similar position recently. Well, it was a year ago. I minored in photography in college, shooting film and spending hours in the dark room. I primarily am a graphic designer, keeping up with photography and the technology, as a part of my design work and occasionally shooting an event or a portrait or 2. I was opposed to doing weddings because of all of the reasons all of you who think he shouldn't take this job have listed.
Then a bride saw photographs that I took at a local day care's family picnic. She approached me. What she needed was someone to shoot the reception because the main Photographer, a 10 year professional who does not suck, was a friend and wanted to enjoy some of the event. So, here's what I did.
I was absolutely honest with the couple about my experience. I met with the primary and asked if she would mind me shooting the entire day with her. I charged very little for the opportunity. Took lots of notes. The Photographer was delightful, helpful and very supportive. The bride and groom got a ton of pictures that they would not have had and I learned so much. Two brides that were having manageable weddings saw my images and wanted to hire me. Again, I showed them my work, was honest about my experience and they were all onboard.
Now, I did do some things to prepare that helped me to avoid some really big mistakes that could have been devastating. I invested in some equipment by researching the key pieces from other wedding photographers. Luckily, I didn't need a lot. I took an online Wedding Photo class with Ken Sklute. Read a ton and used my Photographer friends when I had questions. Then I started working with my equipment until I knew it inside and out.
Also, I made sure I had many meetings with the couple to compile a detailed shot list. I went and scouted the locations. Went to the rehearsals to take lots of test shots and practiced with the wedding party until I was comfortable with where I needed to be positioned. I also wanted to figure out the limitations of the space and where the lighting opportunities/challenges would be.
Everything went really well. I am enrolling in another class and have 4 weddings booked for the upcoming season. I am working hard at it and enjoying every minute.
So, maybe you want to be a wedding photographer. Everyone has to start somewhere. The main thing is that you find a safe situation to start. One where you can get some experience without being under so much pressure. And some of these other posts were right. There are no do-overs for this couple. Maybe this particular wedding is not the right one to cut your teeth on. So start looking for one that is and jump in with both feet. All professional photographers were amateurs once. If I get a call to shoot something that is too much for me, I call in reinforcements and take a second seat. The most important thing is that in this business, word of mouth can make you or break you.
Well, I hope this all helps. And, I hope all of you seasoned pro's don't rip me up too bad.