Welcome to Your Journey

Every master was once a beginner. Whether you're picking up a camera for the first time or transitioning from another genre of photography, wedding work presents unique challenges that demand specific knowledge and equipment.

Weddings are live events with no second takes. The first kiss happens once. The father's tear during the first look won't be repeated. The light changes. The moments pass. Your gear needs to be reliable, versatile, and ready for anything.

What You'll Learn in This Module

By the end of Module 1, you'll understand:

• Camera Systems: The difference between DSLR and mirrorless, full-frame and crop sensors, and which systems work best for wedding work
• Lens Strategy: How to build a versatile lens kit that covers every wedding scenario without breaking the bank
• Lighting Mastery: Flash systems, modifiers, and continuous lighting options for both photo and video
• Audio Excellence: Microphone setups for capturing vows, speeches, and ambient sound
• Support Gear: Tripods, gimbals, bags, and the accessories that make your day run smoothly

The Equipment Investment Philosophy

Before we dive into specific gear recommendations, let's establish a healthy philosophy around equipment investment.

Quality Over Quantity

It's better to own one exceptional lens than three mediocre ones. Professional wedding photographers often work with surprisingly compact kits—but every piece earns its place. A 24-70mm f/2.8 zoom that covers multiple scenarios is worth more than a bag full of kit lenses.

Reliability is Non-Negotiable

On a wedding day, equipment failure isn't an inconvenience—it's potentially a career-ending disaster. Always have backups for critical gear. Two camera bodies minimum. Multiple memory cards. Extra batteries. The redundancy isn't paranoia; it's professionalism.

Buy Once, Cry Once

The cheapest option often becomes the most expensive when you factor in replacements, missed shots, and the frustration of unreliable gear. Lenses especially can last decades with proper care. Investing in quality glass is investing in your future.

The Minimum Kit for Your First Wedding

If you're photographing your first wedding, here's the absolute minimum gear you need:

Adding Videography to Your Kit

If you're offering video services alongside photography (increasingly common and profitable), you'll need additional equipment:

• Stabilization: A gimbal for smooth motion shots
• Audio Recording: Wireless lavalier microphones and a portable recorder
• Extended Focal Lengths: Longer lenses (70-200mm) for ceremony coverage
• Higher Frame Rates: Cameras capable of 60fps for slow-motion capabilities

Module Roadmap

Here's how we'll progress through this module:

1. Camera Body Selection

   Understanding sensor sizes, DSLR vs mirrorless, and choosing your camera system

2. Essential Lenses

   Building a versatile lens kit with primes and zooms for every scenario

3. Lighting Equipment

   Flash systems, modifiers, continuous lighting, and light shaping tools

4. Audio Gear for Video

   Microphones, recorders, and strategies for capturing crystal-clear audio

5. Support & Accessories

   Tripods, gimbals, bags, straps, and everything else that keeps your day running smoothly

Ready to Begin?

Equipment knowledge is foundational—but it's just the beginning. The best camera in the world won't capture emotion if you don't know when to click the shutter. The most expensive lens won't find the right moment.

Use this module to build confidence in your technical choices, then move on to the creative and practical skills that will truly set you apart.