Adapting to COVID Wedding Photography’s New Normal

Any wedding photographers that are still getting shoots during COVID life will certainly attest that things have dramatically changed. Most states have set stringent limits to social gatherings. Some couples have simply decided to move their weddings to their backyards, while others have found other options. It is too soon to predict how long this new normal will keep going. It might be that we are in the midst of a fundamental shift in the industry. Speculating about that now can drive a person crazy. Photographers cannot spend precious time worrying about long-term shifts when things are still in flux. But being adaptable is an essential life skill. Photographers have had to adapt all along given how disruptive new technology can be. Any film shooters reading this? (I still shoot a roll here and there).

The new normal of outdoor COVID weddings (photo by Jared Tremper)

Having shot a few weddings in 2020, my wife and I learned quickly that we had to adapt. That said, when does any live event go as planned? Being adaptable is central to an event photographer. Yet 2020 is different. Couples today are under a lot more stress. So here are a few key take-aways from the new normal that might help others.

Adaptation: Stay Calm and Carry On

When meeting with the couple, there’s no getting around it that 2020 is different. Some couples delayed their wedding, hoping things would get back to normal. Those who soldiered on had to make difficult decisions:

• Whom to invite and not invite
• Proceed with a larger reserved venue or go small
• Will there be a wedding party
• What about social distancing, not only for the guests but for family and others involved

The key takeaway is to maintain a calm and professional attitude at every stage. Do not be a source of stress for the couple. Let them feel your confidence that everything will turn out great!

Adaptation: Size Matters

Some weddings have made the news this year as “super spreader” events. When it comes to shooting weddings where they have somehow been able to have a fairly large number of guests, only you can decide how much risk you are willing to take. Before you finalize your contract with the couple, this question needs to be a priority. It’s imperative to ask specific questions about the size of wedding party, group shots, and social distancing requirements.

My wife and I shot a wedding in August with over 100 in attendance. We spoke in person to the church staff to see the venue (always a best practice anyway). The critical question was how social distancing would play out in the church. We also visited the banquet hall, bringing those same questions. Visiting the venues is more important than ever because you will need to see if there are unanticipated risks that the couple needs to address.

Adaptation: Key Questions

Whether or not the couple is working with a wedding coordinator, the photographer will wear the hat as a problem solver and project manager. Anticipating issues relating to posing people in the COVID new normal is particularly important. Traditional group shot poses may not fly with some folks. Be prepared to ask some key questions:

• Does the venue have a COVID policy and plan? What risks do you see to their implementation and are you comfortable with it?
• Has the couple talked to all those they desire to be in group shots about their risk tolerance and social distancing expectations?
• How close are you expecting to be to various subjects, especially during the reception?
• Will you wear a face mask the entire time? That is difficult if your viewfinder fogs up! Also, your style of engagement with your subjects may be limited if you are wearing a mask.

Adaptation: Post-wedding New Normal

Are you prepared to self-isolate after the shoot? Our last wedding had a guest testing positive. We had to self-quarantine until we learned it was a false positive. That caught us unprepared! While so much more can be said about preparing for the new normal of a COVID wedding shoot, this could be the most critical: be prepared to hunker down after the shoot. It might be wise to assume you have been exposed. Plan ahead to avoid unnecessary people contact just after the wedding. Have ample provisions at home. Know in advance about COVID testing options.

The new normal of COVID weddings may convince some wedding photographers to quit. With an uncertain future and the seismic shifts taking place, it is understandable that anxiety is growing. But adapting to the new normal is possible. Honestly, one’s skill in adaptation can be a deciding factor as to the longevity of one’s photography career. And since folks will continue to get married and want their day documented, there will always be opportunities.

Keep calm and carry on!

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