Our checklist is the amateur wedding photographer's best friend. If you're thinking of volunteering your services for friends or family then you'll find a few hints, tips and ideas right here to help you plan for every eventuality

If you’re considering taking photos as a favour to friends or family there are some important things to remember. Most important is to be prepared, check your equipment, arrive on the day with extra memory cards, extra batteries and a full itinerary of the day.

Shot List
Even though you are an amateur photographer you can still approach the day with a professional attitude. Sit down with the couple in advance of the wedding day and ask as many questions as you need to feel confident you will be able to do a good job. Ask them to supply you with a list of the pictures they want and how they want them to look and feel. On the day make a shot list and tick them off as you go.

Visit the location
Visit the wedding service and reception venues to get a better idea of where you can stand to get the best pictures. Consider timing your visit at a similar time to the wedding so that you can see where the light falls for the best pictures. Also look at outside spaces and areas that can give you the best backdrop.

Personalise the pictures
It helps that you know the couple so use it to your advantage. Take pictures that really communicate the feeling of the day. Children stealing hiding under tables, the family grandmother dancing with one of the grooms men; anything that capture the romance of the day.

Be Appropriate
Don’t be afraid to direct guests about where to stand and where to look to get the best shots but be aware that you don’t want to overstep the mark and become obtrusive. When you’re not taking pictures try to blend into the background; remember to turn off any sound affects your camera may have.