Photographer (Wedding)
しゃしんさつえいにん（けっこんしき）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession specializing in wedding photography, beautifully capturing the expressions of the bride and groom and guests, as well as the venue's atmosphere.
Description
Wedding photographers are specialists who capture natural expressions of the bride and groom and guests, as well as the ceremony highlights, in photographs. They formulate shooting plans during pre-event meetings and, on the day, utilize lighting and composition techniques for shooting. Equipment handling suited to indoor and outdoor environments, posing guidance, and communication with guests are also essential. After shooting, they handle photo selection, retouching, data delivery, and album production to preserve memories in tangible form. In recent years, the ability to respond to diversifying needs such as drone shooting, video shooting, and live streaming is required.
Future Outlook
While the wedding photography market is stable, services are diversifying with video shooting, drones, and live streaming. AI-powered automatic retouching technology will expand in the future, giving an advantage to those with both technical and service skills.
Personality Traits
Able to respond flexibly / Creative / Detail-oriented / Sociable / Strong sense of responsibility
Work Style
Contract Work / Freelance / Full-time Employee / Shift / Weekends and Holidays
Career Path
Assistant Cameraman → Freelance Photographer → Bridal Specialist Photographer → Photo Studio Manager → Photographer Instructor
Required Skills
Communication Skills / Composition / DSLR Camera Operation / Image Editing Software (Photoshop and Lightroom) / Lighting / Time Management
Recommended Skills
Album Design / Communication Skills (English) / Drone Shooting / SNS Management / Video Shooting
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Adaptability | To flexibly adjust shooting plans in response to weather changes and the day's schedule. |
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To not miss fine details in attire, venue items, and expressions. |
| Communication Skills | High communication skills are required for meetings and instructions with the bride and groom and guests. |
| Creativity & Ideation | To devise attractive compositions and staging suited to the venue and lighting conditions. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | To endure long hours of standing, movement, and carrying heavy equipment. |
| Planning & Organization | To plan and adjust shooting schedules and shot lists in advance. |
| Problem Solving | To quickly respond to weather, venue constraints, and troubles. |
| Stress Tolerance | To endure the pressure of a once-in-a-lifetime commemorative shoot where mistakes are not tolerated. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Advanced mathematical or quantitative analysis is hardly required. |
Related Qualifications
- Japan Photographers Association Certification
- Photo Master Certification
Aliases
- Bridal Photographer
- Wedding Ceremony Photographer
- Wedding Photographer
Related Jobs
- Event Photographer
- Product Photographer
- Studio Cameraman