Prepping for a Wedding Fayre Without a Stall: A Photographer’s Approach

Saturday, 12th October 2024

Wedding fayres are an excellent opportunity for photographers to network with vendors and potential clients. As someone who focuses on moody, alternative wedding photography, I decided to attend a local wedding fayre, not as a vendor but as a photographer looking to build my portfolio and connect with small businesses.

Here’s how I prepped for the event, what gear I’m taking with me, and how I plan to make the most out of this experience.

Reaching Out to the Venue

Since I wasn’t going to have a stall at the fayre, I wanted to ensure I could still be productive. I contacted the venue to ask if I could come along to take photos of the space and the businesses that would be there. Not only would this give me portfolio material, but it also opens up the chance to showcase the venue in my style—something they might be interested in for future collaborations.

The venue was more than happy to accommodate my request, which gave me the green light to prepare for the fayre in full swing.

Prepping the Equipment

Before any shoot, prepping your gear is essential. I formatted both my SD and micro SD cards for my main camera and GoPro, ensuring I’d have plenty of space for the day. With everything wiped and ready, it was time to get my kit together.

What I’m Taking

Since I’ll be moving around the venue quite a bit, I need to pack light but smart. Here's what I’ve decided to bring with me:

• Canon 5D Mark III: My go-to for professional wedding and event photography.

• 24-105mm f/4.0 Lens: Perfect for capturing everything from wide shots of the venue to detailed shots of individual stands.

• 2 Camera Batteries: Always essential, especially for a long day of shooting.

• GoPro and Chest Harness: This will give me an extra perspective, maybe even for some behind-the-scenes video clips I can use for social media.

• 2 GoPro Batteries: You can never be too prepared when it comes to battery life!

• Polaroid Gen 2 Camera + 4 Packs of Polaroid I-Type Color Film (8 shots each): Instant photography is a great way to break the ice with vendors and couples alike. Plus, offering an instant photo could be a unique, memorable way to share my contact details with potential clients.

• Business Cards

• Keyring with QR Code (from Wood Grove Design): Having an easy way to pass along my info is crucial. The keyring with a QR code adds a personal and memorable touch.

The Plan

My approach for the day will be to capture a mix of atmospheric shots of the venue, small details like decor or vendor displays, and candid shots of interactions. I’ll also use the GoPro to document the day from my perspective, which could make for some fun behind-the-scenes content. The Polaroid camera will be a great way to engage with people in a creative, hands-on way.

I would also like to capture images of the venue’s design, styled by the vendors present, to add to my portfolio and demonstrate my work at this particular venue to future clients. My intention is not to detract from the vendors’ potential clients; however, should someone request a business card, I would be happy to provide one. It may also be beneficial to ask prospective clients about their photography needs and whether they’ve had the opportunity to visit the photographers' stalls first.

Wrapping Up

Even without a dedicated stall, attending a wedding fayre as a photographer offers so many opportunities. I’m looking forward to not only expanding my portfolio but also making connections with local vendors who share a similar aesthetic to my work.