It was nerve-wracking being the lead shooter for the first time. It's so much easier to be the second shooter... so much less responsiblity and lots more time for grabbing shots you want. I took a more consevative route and shot for safety first, not allowing myself the freedom of full creativity. Every now and then I snapped a creative shot, but I did not nearly push the envelope as hard as I normally would.
I have reviewed the raw results and am pleased enough that there appears to be no disaster. The only key shot I did not successfully get was the throwing of the bouquet. The flash didn't fire, even though I snapped at the precise moment it was caught. Oh well. I did point it out to the bride and groom there and then, and they seemed okay with it.
I enjoyed shooting the bride and her maids getting ready at the hotel the most. They were great: totally ignored me and did their thing while I moved around and snapped away. It was such a relaxed, focussed atmosphere and I found that section of the day's photographs to be the one's I'm happiest with as a result. I suck at the formals, and although I guess they are necessary, would really prefer it if they just were not done.
The couple themselves were also awesome. They were very grounded and friendly and treated me like a king, something that never happens when I film weddings. I believe they will be happy with the results and am I glad to have had their wedding for my first gig as the lead photographer.
