Be a good Boy/Girl Scout by being prepared and scout your location in advance of the shoot. This limits your chances of being faced with surprises, such as poor lighting or a difficult location.
As an example, I shot a wedding once that I hadn't visited the reception hall before hand and discovered it was VERY dark and all of the walls were lined with full length mirrors. Of course, I had to use my flash; therefore, shooting around the mirrors and their harsh, glaring reflections was "challenging" to say the least. Moreover, the hall had a low ceiling, so even a bounce flash was too hot for good results. The photos turned out ok however, just think psychedelic light show at a Halloween party and you'll get the idea of what they looked like.
In addition to checking the lighting, I've found it helpful to have some ideas of where and how I want to pose the couple prior to the wedding day. Moreover, finding good positions or angles to shoot from saves you time and frustration too. Trying to figure out what to shoot, while everyone stands around waiting for you, on the wedding day can be stressful on the photographer and the couple.
Lastly, consider visiting the location with the couple before the wedding to take test shots and offer them as engagement photos as a bonus.
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