Calling all my newbie photographers: are you wondering how to be a great second shooter?
I just got back from a photography conference, and it had been a while since I attended one! I used to go more often when I was just starting out, and it made me think back to when I was regularly 2nd shooting for other photogs, and learning the ropes of the business.
Becoming a secondary shooter is a great way to learn the wedding industry without the pressure of being THE lead photog at someone’s wedding. I do not recommend you jump in the industry with no experience and just wing it. Our clients are trusting us with the most anticipated day of their lives, so learning the ropes will only make you a better artist (and business owner) in the future. I think all good vendors still get nervous before a big day because we care that it goes off without a hitch (to the best of our ability!)
That being said, there are a few things that will help you stand apart as you enter the industry. And now that I have several years and more-than-several-clients under my belt, I’d love to share my tips and tricks.
This is how to be a great second shooter:
Don’t shoot over the shoulder of your lead:
You’re there to get additional photos to supplement the final gallery! This means different angles, using a different lens than the lead, and grabbing candids while the lead takes portraits. If your whole deliverable portfolio is basically duplicates of what the lead photog has captured, you’re not providing that secondary perspective. Actively look for moments that no one else is seeing. Fill the gaps, and listen closely to where the lead needs you to be for each section of the day.
Get behind the scenes shots of your lead!
This is such a great way to get some bonus points! Speaking from experience, it is always appreciated. If you do this, I’m calling you again! As photographers, we are RARELY in a photo. Capture us working and we’ll love you forever 😉
Another way how to be a great second shooter?
Help with family portraits:
If I could say this one twice, I would! Probably one of the most chaotic parts of the day is making sure we are getting EVERY shot that the couple wants for their family heirloom photos. If there is a list of family formals, it is so helpful to have someone getting the next group ready while the lead is shooting the photo.
Lastly, if you want to learn how to be a great second shooter: remember why you’re there…
You are not there to boost your portfolio! I know that’s always on a photographer’s brain; believe me, I get it!! But as a paid contract worker, you are there to help the lead photographer in order to give their couple the best experience and finished gallery. That always has to be our first goal as a team: the couple comes first.
You get to learn the ropes of a wedding day, learn from mistakes without the weight being on your shoulders, and maybe walk away with a few images for your portfolio too. But the couple always comes first.
I hope this helps when thinking about how to be a great second shooter. Remember, there is so much more community and competition. We are rooting for you to succeed, and we appreciate good 2nd shooters more than you know!
