Know your camera, know yourself
Your camera will be on auto for the most part. Eventually, you will learn what works for you and what doesn’t. Once that is established, you’ll be ready for A-Cam.
If you want to get technical, research the camera’s capabilities and keep these notes in mind:
Camera Settings and Lighting
White Balance
We will be using the auto white balance (AWB) with this camera because you need to move quickly through an ever-changing scenario and the camera catches on faster than we can
Exposure
Use auto exposure with compensation
DO NOT LET THE CAMERA GO TO 2000 ISO
We have set the limits on this camera to 2000 but we should not hit the limit we should be around 1600/1200 or less all the time
If you are at 2000 ISO turn up your light or replace the battery.
Lighting
We always want to try to match the light to the room color to start out as best as possible. On-Camera Flash is key to capturing moments at night. Your settings will be on AUTO for the most part, but you must understand a few basics of the on-camera flash even if it is on TTL. ALWAYS review the last photo you took before moving on.
Direct flash is when you point the flash directly at the subject. During the reception, people are very close to you and it is best to avoid “whiteout”. This is best used on the dancefloor or when taking portraits of guests.
“Bouncing” the flash is only possible if the ceiling or wall is nearby and requires a higher power to compensate for the distance. It is best for ceremonies like candle lightings or speeches, when available
Modifiers like soft domes and CTO filters are necessary for creating soft light that matches the environment