I always love waking up in the morning, and over a cup of strong Joe, scrolling through the Facebook newsfeed to see what I missed over night. I usually fall victim to all of the “upworthy” videos that have this weeks source of positive inspiration or everyday hero. I cry my eyes out, and continue scrolling. In addition to those videos, I also LOVE ME some funny e-cards or “take this test to find out what state you really belong in…..whatever word you find first….that describes your upcoming year….” etc. Well early this morning I found one that was photography related and was simply titled: Should I become a Wedding Photographer?

Thank goodness, I passed. So according to this “test” I SHOULD be doing exactly what I am. But life isn’t all about Facebook tests and games. So, this whole thing got me thinking….WHO is really meant to shoot weddings in this industry and who isn’t? What are the deciding factors? Well, these may not be true for everyone, but here is my opinion:

Photography is NOT a quick fix or fast ride to making money. Its not a get rich fast scheme….an easy “job”, and sad but true…NOT EVERYONE can do this. I am a HUGE advocate for believing that anyone can do anything they put their mind to….nothing is impossible….but the KEY to this…is WANTING things not just with your mind, or even with your heart. You have to want it from the depths of your soul. The phrase “you have to work hard for what you want most” is so true….but there is so, so much more than that!

When I first started…it was passion that drove me. Not money. I will stand by that until the day that I die. Because its 100% the truth. SURE….making money to support yourself and your family, while doing something you are passionate about it the total American Dream….so I got lucky there….but I ask myself this following question EVERY DAY: “Kaitlin, would you still take pictures AND LOVE PHOTOGRAPHY if the money stopped?”. My answer is ALWAYS YES!  (I just wouldn’t be able to do it must considering I would have to go back to 3 jobs to support my growing boys : P )

So, if you are in a transition period…wondering if becoming a wedding photographer is something you “SHOULD” do, you could either take this Facebook test above, OR ask yourself these questions:

1. Are you in love with love? YOU HAVE to be  to shoot weddings?!

2. Do you have patience? With brides, trust me you will need it. With the ever changing flow of a wedding day, you will need it! With the drama that all weddings have in some way, shape or form….you will need it!

3. Do you have an attention to detail? Brides spend their whole lives, I’m talking from like the ‘Barbie days’, imagining the details of their wedding day…so you better love them so you can shoot them well.

4. Are you a people person? Outgoing, energetic, positive, happy….basically…. are you someone a bride is going to want following her around already on her MOST important day? This is very customer service based industry/field….be prepared for it….most have no idea what they are getting into and think its a simple…stand there, point and shoot kind of day.

5. Are you a serious professional? Weddings, though fun, are not a joke….be prepared to handle anything on wedding day in a professional manner…and be sure you dress the part too. NO YOGA pants, jeans, super tight clothing…the object is to blend in or dress as a sophisticated guest.

6. Do you like to work long hours?!?!!? I feel like most weddings photographers are an interesting mix of insomniacs and work-a-holics….so be prepared. Remember this is a real business…not just pushing a button with a camera and editing in iPhoto. Way more goes into it behind the scenes than you think!

7. Are you a great multi-tasker….TRUST ME….this is an invaluable skill in terms of wedding photography!

8. ARE YOU COVERED!?!? INSURANCE….COVERAGE….LIABILITY….Don’t even think about shooting weddings if you are covered!

9. How are you are asking for help!?!? No one got where they are in this industry alone….so PLEASE don’t think you know it all…and please don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Remember….there is NO DO OVERS IN WEDDING WORLD!

10. Investment! The amount of gear, coverage, bills, fees, etc attached to being a wedding photographer is INTENSE. Its very expensive…and for more photographers, they shoot nearly 2 years of weddings before they actually start taking in a profit!!! Its a total investment….not only in gear and coverage…but in yourself…in your training…you skills. There is always new trades to learn and new gear to buy….gear to fix….you name it!

So, do you have what it takes?!?!?! Its a lot right!?!?! Not so much just pushing your button with your digital camera is it?!?! If you want this….with your mind…your heart….and to the depths of your soul…..sure you can do it. But be sure to be ready to handle all ten of those points above and MANY MORE! Don’t forget….its never ok to gamble or “experiment” with someones big day. If you are not sure about wanting to get into weddings my biggest piece of advice would be to SECOND OR THIRD SHOOT THEM FIRST….do more than 1. More than 10 even. Make sure you want to do this all the time…not just for a few cool weddings….not everyone is a “breeze…or over the top.” So get as much experience with as many different kinds of brides and vendors. You will thank yourself….you’ll thank me…and the BRIDE with thank you for not “ruining” the memories of her day while you try and figure out if this “world” is for you.

Best of luck and happy shooting!!!