Some photographers find it necessary to hire a second shooter when they are covering big events like weddings. Basically, the second shooter acts as the assistant or second photographer.

Most of those who accept second shooting assignments or projects are photographers looking to build up their knowledge and confidence.

Others use the experience to network with fellow photographers in their area.

photo by 古 天熱

The Essentials of the Trade

Even if you’ve already been a photographer for years, you will still need to follow some tips to become an effective (and efficient) second shooter. There is a big difference between shooting alone and photographing with a primary shooter.

Thus, in order to be a good second photographer, the first thing you will need to learn is to become a team player. You’ll have to be comfortable working with another photographer. You’ll need to learn how to set your pride aside and make sure that you prioritize the primary shooter. Keep in mind that you are not the main driver, so you should learn how to work as an assistant.

You also have to know which tasks you should handle and which ones should be left in the care of the primary photographer. So, if the primary shooter is taking a photo of the bride coming out of the car, you can’t take the same shot. You’ll have to find another scene, angle or image to capture; like the flower girls fussing over their baskets. Any scene that the primary photographer cannot handle should be your responsibility. The number one rule should always be followed: do not shoot the same scenes or images that the primary photographer is capturing.

The most effective and efficient second shooters are the ones who are selfless.

The Primary Photographer’s Assistant

Since you are practically the primary photographer’s assistant, it is also your responsibility to make sure that he has everything he might need. Before you go around to shoot, ask him first if he needs anything from you.

Remember, the primary photographer has tons of responsibilities to take care of. Don’t be a burden; find ways to be helpful and useful.

About The Gear

In terms of equipment, some primary photographers prefer for their second shooters to use their own equipment. This is especially true for those who are quite meticulous about the reliability and quality of the photography equipment you will use for the event. There are, however, quite a number of photographers who would want you to use your equipment because it is what you are most comfortable and familiar with.

Just be sure to bring an extra or back up equipment in case certain circumstances will require you to use them. Be like a mountaineer; a Boy Scout – always prepared. This will make a lasting impression not only on the primary photographer, but on the clients as well.

Be Observant

Another tip that you should keep in mind is to be observant. Pay close attention to the angles and shots the primary photographer is taking. Pay attention, too, to the kind of lenses he decides to use. Don’t use telephoto lens when he uses one.

Likewise, it is important to stay out of the way of the photographer. You wouldn’t want to be in his photos, would you?

Even if you’re not the primary photographer, your shots are just as important as his. So, make sure that you take as many photos as you can (but don’t overshoot and take, say, a thousand shots!). Again, be observant – this will help you find interesting scenes to shoot. Take shots of the bride and groom’s families during their most candid moments, or take casual shots of guests inside the church or during reception.

It will be great if you can take a lot of candid shots; those shots that capture natural, unguarded moments – like a mother fixing her flower girl daughter’s gown, or the groom smiling while looking expectantly at the church entrance.

Leave The Business Cards At Home

It is also important to leave your business card at home. If you do this, you’ll resist the temptation of reaching into your pocket or bag and handing out your cards to guests. This is part of being a good team player. Let the guests form the idea that you and the primary photographer work together as a team. Don’t exploit the moment and use it for your own advantage.

Remember, you are the second shooter. The main man is the primary photographer. If someone asks for your business card, you can always hand them the primary shooter’s; just be sure to grab some before you start going around and taking shots.

No Social Media Sharing

After taking shots, don’t upload anything to Facebook, Instagram – or any social media site for that matter. You should first ask permission from the primary photographer if it is all right to do so. Nevertheless, posting away on social media while the event is ongoing is a big no-no for many photographers.

You wouldn’t want to kill off the excitement of the bride and groom, right? Wedding photos are meant to be seen after the whole event is over; not when everyone is still in the thick of things.

Dress Appropriately

Since you’re covering a wedding, you have to dress appropriately. Take time to find out what the dress requirements are days before the shoot. You wouldn’t want to wear jeans while everyone else is in their most expensive tuxedos, right?

Finally, relax and enjoy what you’re doing. Enjoy the wedding! Smile at people. Your mood will show in your photos, so it is important to be at and feel your best when shooting.

Being a second shooter can be quite tiring and even difficult at times; but is also has a lot of rewards. Aside from the experience, exposure and the opportunity to work with other great photographers; you’ll also be rewarded financially.

Just keep the above-mentioned tips in mind and things will run smoothly for you. It is also important to have faith in yourself and in what you can do. Your confidence is just as valuable as your technical knowhow.