Capturing the special moments at a Sunshine Coast wedding reception is made easy with digital cameras.
Every wedding has hundreds of picture worthy moments, whether it is of the first kiss or the guests getting tipsy on champagne.
It's easy to fall into the trap of snapping away, getting loads of shots but only one or two that are actually any good.
There are several tips that guests should bear in mind to make sure it's their photos of the wedding that everyone wants to see.
Digital cameras have brought many advantages to modern photographers.
Slim and lightweight, they are easy to carry and can store hundreds of high quality photographs.
Even very basic cameras have user settings to improve the quality of photos.
Before taking your camera to a special event, get to grips with how to use it properly.
For instance, do you know how to work your camera's macro? This function, symbolized with a flower, allows you to take photos of something small, close up but still in focus.
It is perfect for snapping the details of the wedding cake or the cover of the wedding program.
The lighting of even a simple shot will make all the difference when it comes to quality.
To take a good wedding photo, ensure that you have plenty of natural light.
If you are indoors, use a flash (if permitted) or rest your camera on a firm surface to stop the image from blurring.
Using image editing software, you can easily remove red-eye.
Don't assume that bossing guests about into a posed photo will automatically make a good picture.
Wedding photographers are hired to take formal shots; use your role as a guest to mingle and take subtle snaps while the subjects don't know they are being photographed.
These images often show the side of the wedding celebration the bride and groom might not have had a chance to see, as well as reminding them of moments when they were in a world of their own.
Find interesting angles and vantage points to take photos from.
Explore the wedding venue.
Is there a balcony or high up window where you could take a photo of the party from above? Frame each photo using the screen on the back of your camera.
Try to avoid using the zoom as it eliminates the atmosphere around the subjects, as well as losing quality.
On the other hand, make sure you are near enough.
Try to take a couple of takes for each photo.
You'll be more likely to get a shot where all the subjects are photographed in a flattering manner and you can easily look through the shots and delete bad photos to make more space.
Remember that you aren't the only one keen to get some good wedding photos.
With the popularity of digital cameras, it's very likely that many other guests will have a camera with them and will be fighting you for the best spot.
Take opportunities to shoot original photographs.
Finally, always have your camera by your side! Nobody knows what will happen at a Sunshine Coast wedding reception.
Be ready to whip out your camera if you spot the happy couple having a giggle to themselves or Aunt Mabel dancing with a handsome guest.
Be spontaneous! Most of all, remember to enjoy the day.
Photos might be a great way to capture memories, but don't miss out on the party by concentrating too hard on taking pictures.