5 Tips On How To Be A Prepared 2nd Shooter
Hi guys!!!
Thank you so much for being here, it means the world to me. When I started out as a wedding photographer, I quickly learned that second shooting for other photographers is the best way to learn the industry. Hands on experience is key when it comes to learning your craft, especially in the wedding world. There are so many ins and outs during a wedding day. Honestly, I couldn’t have imagined shooting my first wedding without all of the experience I had beforehand as a second shooter! When it comes to working with someone, keep in mind that every photographer has a different way of doing things. By doing this you will be prepared for your day as the solo wedding photographer. Which is why it is great to learn from a few different people! If you are loving all of this knowledge please sign up for the monthly educational newsletter by heading over to the website. Let’s dive into what you need to know to be prepared for second shooting!
1.GEAR
First off, let’s talk about your gear! It is so important and that is why I have put it first on the list. I always recommend having two cameras, because let’s be honest cameras break (EEK!). Next, go out and buy yourself an extra set of batteries for each of these cameras. Because there is NOTHING worse than running out of battery mid-day and not having another. If you want to be super prepared you can buy a battery grip. I personally love mine and it makes my life so much easier! Now we’re gonna talk about cards, I use the 64 GB and own 8 of them. I also have 2 of the 64 GB cards that fit into the other slot of my camera. Always shoot with two cards! You can program your camera to simultaneously mirror copy each card. That way you will have a backup if one card fails. This is so important! Cards fail guys. The next subject is my favorite; Lenses! I am a firm believer that every photographer should be versatile but if you are just starting out that’s ok boo! Every wedding photographer should have a 50 mm. This lens will be your work horse for the majority of the wedding day. Another great lens to have is a 24-70 mm which is a wider lens. You will need this for those tight getting ready spaces. Although, I mainly use my 35mm for tighter spaces this is a preference and is up to each photographer’s style. Next, I use my 70-200 for getting more candid shots and sunset shots. This is a longer lens, but the compression is magical! This lens is the “unicorn” in my camera bag and my all-time favorite!
2.WHERE TO BE AND WHEN
I will never forget my first time second shooting, I literally had to learn on the fly, which is exactly what you will have to do. But don’t trip, chocolate chip, I got you! After all, that’s why you are here right? To learn from my mistakes? I highly recommend going on Pinterest and studying some poses to use throughout the day, hat way you won’t feel stuck. You will most likely be shooting the boys getting ready so be prepared with some epic groomsmen shot ideas! Another situation you may find yourself in is shooting the reception area before the guests put all of their things on the tables. When shooting this space remember to make sure that all the vendors are finished setting up the space. For example, all of the chairs are in place and the candles are lit. It is important to get detail shots of the tables but it is also equally as important to get a wide shot of the entire reception area.
3.BE HELPFUL!
A great second shooter knows where to be and when, be prepared! A week before the wedding you should email your main shooter and ask a few questions:
1.Wedding address
2. Getting ready address both bride and groom (If different from other venues)
3. Bride & Grooms name
4. Start time
5. Wedding day timeline
6. Anything else they think you should know.
4.SHOOTING STYLE
When choosing a wedding photographer to second shoot with choose someone who has a style that you love. This way you can learn from them and grow in a direction that suits you. Know the photographer’s style when you are shooting for them, but also add a different element. After all you are not them and versatility can be a great thing when it comes to a wedding gallery. Try to shoot warmer or cooler depending on their color temperature.
4.HOW TO REACH OUT
So, you need some experience before you go out on your own and you are wanting to reach out to a photographer. This can be tricky waters unfortunately. Some photographers use the same second shooter all year and some have a list. Some are so popular they get this all the time. A great way to approach someone is to ask if you could take them out to coffee. This shows that you are investing your time in them and not just wanting to take, take, take. Plus, it is always a good idea to get to know this person before they hire you and ask the right questions. After all, you may not be a good fit for each other. Sometimes personalities can clash and it is great to meet in person to get all the details worked out. Remember this is somewhat of a job interview, they need to know that you are an independent and confident person.
5.QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK
When being hired there are a few questions you should always ask. First off, when it comes to the use of your images for social media it is really important to have a conversation with the photographer that hired you. After all, that’s why you are there right? You want to use these images to book more weddings. When I was a second shooter, I worked for a photographer that allowed me to use my images and one who did not. Although it is super frustrating when they ask you not to use anything for social media or your portfolio you do have to respect their wishes. I would recommend having this conversation when you are hired so that you can choose to work for them or not. Secondly, ask what they pay. Some pay by the hour and some pay by the day. If they do pay by the hour, make sure to ask how many hours you will be needed. Next, ask if you need to sign a contract. I personally have my second shooters sign a contract. Because there is nothing worse than a flakey person bailing the day of a wedding. If you ever need to bail please give your boss as much notice as possible to replace you!