Over the years that I’ve been running this business, I’ve had a lot of experience BEING a second shooter and HAVING a second shooter with me on a wedding day. So, it’s kind of neat that I get to write this post with both perspectives in mind! Here are some tips on being a better second shooter!
- ALWAYS act professionally. As a second shooter you are an extension of the lead photographer’s business, and if you behave poorly it doesn’t make you look bad – it makes the lead photographer look bad.
- Dress professionally. I cringe to think about what I used to wear when I first started shooting weddings (a post on that coming soon!) and am so happy that now I dress as if I were a guest. So, don’t show up in jeans!
- Shoot opposite of the lead. This is a really great way to ensure that there is a lot of variety in the photos! Be at a different angle than your lead, so if they’re in the aisle, try being off to the side. It’s also not a bad idea to shoot with a different lens than your lead is already shooting with.
- Look for what’s happening in the moment. Something I really work hard on doing when I’m a second shooter is taking a step back and really looking at what’s going on. During the ceremony, I’m not looking at the couple. I’m scanning the audience for emotional reactions. During formals, I’m doing the same thing. I’m looking at the people who are waiting to have their photos taken and seeing if there’s anything going on there (along with trying to get some extra formals for the lead!). So, try to focus on the candid parts of the day to help make sure the lead can get a nice variety of the traditional stuff, but also behind the scenes.
- Speaking of behind the scenes… take photos of the lead photographer doing their thing! It’s so great to have photos of them in action!
- Focus on the timeline. Reference it often and help keep the lead on track. They’re usually on it, but it’s nice for them to know that there’s someone there to help remind them when it’s time to be moving on! Also, be in charge of any formals lists and call those names out to have people on deck!
- Remind them to eat and drink. This was especially helpful for me when I was pregnant! My second shooters would often remind me to have a snack or sit and drink some water! These are great reminders regardless of if you’re pregnant or not.
- Talk to them PRIOR to the wedding. Get a feel for what their expectations are for you so that when you show up you’re already on the same page and ready to get to work!
- Speaking of showing up.. be EARLY! 🙂
If you are a photographer who is looking to break into the wedding industry, being a second shooter is a really great way to get experience and help do some portfolio building! I am so thankful that I was able to second shoot for someone before I shot my very first wedding years ago!
Linda is a Boston-based photographer specializing in weddings and creating family legacies. You can see more of her work online at lindabarryphotography.com, on Instagram, or on Facebook. If you want to reach out directly: linda@lindabarryphotography.com. To sign up for the monthly newsletter full of encouragement and real life, click here!
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