Why Every Photographer Should Second Shoot:

What is Second Shooting?

Second shooting refers to the practice of assisting a lead photographer during a wedding or event. I picked up my first “professional” camera in 2019 and began learning the ins and outs of wedding photography by second shooting for other photographers. It’s an invaluable opportunity for photographers at any level of their career to gain experience and refine their skills.

Why Should Beginners Second Shoot?

As a beginner, second shooting for an experienced photographer provides an excellent way to learn the fundamentals of wedding photography. You’ll have the chance to observe the entire wedding day workflow and ask questions directly to the lead photographer. This hands-on experience is crucial for building your understanding of what goes into capturing a successful wedding.

If you’re new to second shooting, be honest about your experience level. If you have little to no experience, consider offering to be a third shooter. Often, a third shooter takes on a shadowing role, and while it may not be a paid position, think of it as an apprenticeship. This role allows you to gain valuable experience while observing a full day in the wedding environment, all while building your portfolio.

Why Should Experienced Photographers Second Shoot?

Even if you’re an experienced photographer, second shooting offers unique benefits. It provides the opportunity to collaborate with other professionals, expand your network, and learn new techniques. By observing different shooting styles and approaches, you can enhance your skills and bring fresh ideas to your own work.

Questions to Ask Your Main Photographer Before the First Day:

To ensure a smooth and productive day of shooting, here are some essential questions to discuss with the lead photographer before the wedding:

1. What lenses do you prefer to use during the wedding?
2. Is there a specific lens you prefer I shoot on use based on what you’re shooting with?
3. What areas of your work are you looking to improve on, and how can I assist?
4. At what points during the day should I focus on setup?
5. What time should I arrive, and where?
6. Can I use my own images from the day in my portfolio and if so, what are your restrictions?

If You Regularly Use a Second Shooter

As a lead photographer, providing clear details to your second shooter is crucial for a successful collaboration. Make sure to communicate:

• Date, time, and location: Clearly state when and where they should arrive.
• Brief notes on the couple: Include the bride and groom’s names and a fun fact about them to help personalize the experience.
• Engagement session gallery: Share this with your second shooter to familiarize them with the couple.
• Specific focus areas for the day: Define the lead and second shooter roles to ensure everyone knows their responsibilities.

Second shooting is a valuable experience for photographers at every stage of their careers. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the ropes of wedding photography or an experienced shooter aiming to refine your skills and expand your network, second shooting provides the perfect platform. Embrace the opportunity to learn, grow, and collaborate—your photography journey will thank you for it!

For more tips and resources on wedding photography education, stay tuned to our blog. Happy shooting!