Don’t you just hate those arrogant A-hole types that think they are far superior when they feel compelled to answer a request for help? I posted a request for a few pointers to start with in portrait photography. I suck at the photography of people and I’m not afraid to admit it. There is of course there is a story behind my asking this question.

I was asked by my Brother-In-Law if I would photograph his wedding a year from now. I was honored and terrified by this proposition. Neither the bride nor the groom has much money and this will be their second marriage. Both are on relatively fixed incomes due to expenses associated with disabilities. I figured I have a year to practice, gain experience, purchase equipment as needed and take the appropriate classes at the local community college. Wedding photography is not like any other type of photography. Poor lighting in most churches and reception halls, not to mention the significance of the moment are significant challenges. Under normal circumstances, I would just say no. Unless I feel I have the chance to do this the right way, I will not do it and will pay for a professional wedding photographer out of my pocket. Actually, I will most likely hire a pro so I can enjoy the party. But I still want to know the techniques since most of the best wedding pictures come from family & friends. Here is the starter list of things I am doing to get better:
1. Search for and read other posts on this topic, they're many
2. Rent or buy pro glass like the 24-70 and the 70-200 f2.8
3. Rent or buy a second camera body
4. Learn to use a strobe off camera or even better strobes off camera
5. Extra batteries for everything.
6. Practice posing groups, couples (romantically), and individuals
7. Shoot early the brides formal shots
8. Read books on shooting a wedding
9. Find an accomplished friend that might help with the task
10. Have a picture checklist
11. Practice, practice, practice...

If you can think of anything to add or any suggestions, please let me know.

Anyway, back to the point of this RANT. Over on the flickr site, some jack*** decided he needed to tell me that if I had to ask the question that it doesn't sound like you have a grasp of basic photography. Then he added no offense like that makes it all better. I guess the day he came out of the birth canal, he was the “know it all photographer” and has never had to asked questions. I can’t imagine what it must be like to be so darn perfect! I wish those with nothing productive to say would just say nothing. The world might be better off with the silence, I know I would.