Legit

Last weekend, I had the chance to assist a photographer friend of mine at a wedding, here in Columbus.  I was so nervous about it because this was SOMEONE'S WEDDING!!!  It wasn't just a backyard photo shoot or an impromptu Chino action shot session, this was the real deal and I (we) had one chance to capture so many important moments that this couple would look back on forever (hopefully).  If I wanted to move myself into "amateur" status, this step was necessary, if not inevitable.  But I was still apprehensive as to whether this was actually a good idea.

When my friend first asked if I'd be interested in helping her with a wedding, I was thrilled.  Then, the more I thought about it, the more I was worried about whether I actually KNEW what I was doing...or at least whether I could fake it 'till I made it.  What if I had the wrong lenses?  What if my settings were off?  What about a flash?  How would I know what to do?  What if I screwed up?  She assured me that things would be fine and that I should just have fun.  After all, the pressure was really on her, since she was THE photographer.  Despite her reassurances, I wasn't convinced.  I actually told her that I wouldn't do it and then realized that I was being a flaky idiot and recommitted.  After I recommitted, I went out and bought a flash.  I mean, if I have a flash, I'm legit, right?  Right.  Oh yeah and those lens hood thingys - I needed those too.  So now, at least I LOOKED the part.

Saturday rolled around and I was ready.  Batteries charged, flash batteries loaded (still only had 25% of a clue as to what to do with it), camera bag packed and nerves galore.  I think I know I bit Nick's head off multiple times that day, but that tends to happen when I'm nervous and he knows it, so no hard feelings.

My friend and I arrived at the venue and began to get the lay of the land.  We met the bride, who was as cool as a cucumber, and told us to just go do our thing!  We started by taking photos of all of the tables (they did a really cute numbering system where each table number was a photo of the bride and groom at that age).  Then we moved on to taking photos of the bride and groom.  Things kept moving smoothly into the ceremony and after.  We worked our butts off, running around, sweating and snapping in the sunshine.  Over 900 pictures later, it was time to head home.  I was sweaty, my hands were sore from carrying and snapping, but I had an overwhelming sense of relief that I had done it.  My first "professional" gig was out of the way.  All in all, it was a fantastic day!  I'm still playing around and editing some of the photos.  They'll be up on Flickr as soon as they're complete!  Its official, I've got the bug.  Here are a few shots from the day:

Some of the groomsmen were enjoying some beverages before "go time."

The bride's sassy pink shoes.

One of many beautiful peonies that decorated the venue.

Mother of the groom, getting him ready to go!

The weather was absolutely perfect for an outdoor wedding!