My first wedding photoshoot

Yesterday I photographed my first wedding.
*exhale*
It was really, really, stressful. I was scared but it's the kind of nervous excitement that feels good. The kind of challenge I like. It was also exhausting. I was soooo mentally done after.
I arrived really early to take some rehearsal test shots. I had already taken a couple test shots at our church before a service so I could get an idea of what I was working with. Our church is darker than the darkest catacomb ever. Total photographic nightmare. The test shots were clutch and I felt ready.
Sean got me a monopod that was such a huge help. I couldn't have done it with my chunky tripod. It's allllll about the mono.
I am kind of glad its over. It is really hard to try to be creative in the moment and feeling rushed. I like to take my time and time is not something there is much of when you are shooting a wedding. But, I learned a lot and that is what I want to focus on. So here it is in a quick outline:

• Shots I wish I got:
• Full bridal shot - I didn't get one of her standing alone or with her hubs in full length. Dohhh!
• Hands at the alter - It was really too dark but I should've attempted it. A zoom lens would help though. It felt weird getting close.
• Brides face when the wedding was "interrupted" (long story).
• Don't be afraid to move - easier said than done when you feel like you are all up in the way of the wedding but duh you are the photographer so get in there!
• Take a relax now herbal pill before hand. haha. - enough said.
• Take test shots at wedding site and the reception site.
• Ask if they want a shot of every table at the reception.

It is really a lot of work by yourself too. I wouldn't suggested doing it alone and I wouldn't suggest doing it with a wedding or reception over 100. BUT I DID IT! 

I also made them a 30 page book of their special day as a thank you. I know they will love it.

And here are my top 10 pictures. (Yes being a good photographer also means you have to be selective of your work).

Here is also a video link to the wedding if you want to watch how "unique" it was haha:

Hopefully I captured the love. I am pretty sure I did and dang it feels good to have the first one done.