There are certain careers you simply cannot dive into without experience, and wedding photography is at the top of that list. The stakes are incredibly high, there are no “do-overs,” and the environment is fast-paced. If you want to break into the industry, second shooting (assisting) for a professional photographer is the absolute best way to start.
Second shooting allows you to witness the flow of a wedding day, learn how to handle lighting challenges, and build your portfolio without the immense pressure that rests on the primary photographer’s shoulders. As a wedding photographer in Vancouver for the past three years, I have been on both sides of the lens—as the lead shooter and the assistant.
Whether you are looking for your first gig or trying to get rehired by top studios, here is exactly what primary photographers look for in a second shooter.
Essential Qualities of a Great Second Shooter
1. Know Your Equipment Inside and Out You don’t necessarily need to be a master of lighting theory on day one, but you must know how to operate your camera blindly. A wedding is a live event, not a personal workshop. If the primary photographer has to stop to show you how to change your ISO or focus points, the client is the one who suffers. You need to be able to troubleshoot your own gear on the fly.
2. Be Reliable and Punctual This sounds simple, but it is the most important rule of the industry: The only person allowed to be late to a wedding is the bride. If the call time is 12:00 PM, aim to be there at 11:45 AM. Reliability also extends to your gear—ensure your batteries are charged, your memory cards are formatted, and your sensor is clean.
3. Be Humble and Helpful When you are second shooting, it isn’t your show. Sometimes the primary photographer will need you to do things other than take pictures, such as holding an umbrella in the rain, moving furniture, or grabbing a bottle of water for the couple. You are there to be a team player and ensure the client’s day goes as smoothly as possible. A “no task is too small” attitude will get you hired again and again.
4. Get Creative with Your Angles Ultimately, I hire second shooters to take photos that I can’t get. Since I am focusing on the “safe” shots (the kiss, the ring exchange, the formal portraits), you have the freedom to take risks. Look for artistic reflections, shoot through foliage, or find a high vantage point. If a creative shot doesn’t work out, it’s not a disaster—but if it does, it adds huge value to the final gallery.
5. Communication is Key Communication is vital, especially during high-pressure moments like the ceremony. Keep an eye on the primary photographer. They may need a lens swap, a fresh battery, or they might signal you to move out of their shot. A quick nod or eye contact every few minutes ensures you are both in sync and not blocking each other’s angles.
6. Anticipate the Moments If you have questions about settings or lighting, ask them during downtime (like dinner or travel), not during the first dance. However, you should always ask about the schedule. The more you know about the timeline, the better you can position yourself to capture unique, candid moments before they happen.
7. Don’t Be the Center of Attention This may sound harsh, but the primary photographer has likely spent months building a rapport with the couple. While you should be friendly and polite to guests, avoid taking over the direction of poses or handing out your own business cards. Blend into the background and let the lead photographer run the show.
Questions to Ask the Primary Photographer Before the Wedding
1. What does the job specifically entail? Every photographer runs their business differently. If you are assisting a Vancouver photographer in the rainy season, you might be holding an umbrella 50% of the time. Some photographers want you to shoot strictly candids, while others may want you to cover the groom’s preparation solo. Clarify these expectations upfront.
2. How are the images delivered? Do you need to shoot in RAW? Do you hand over the memory cards at the end of the night, or do you upload the files to a server the next day? Knowing the workflow prevents technical headaches later.
3. Are there specific “Must-Have” shots? While creative freedom is great, the primary photographer may have a mental shot list they need you to cover. For example, they might want you to focus exclusively on guest reactions during the speeches while they focus on the speaker.
Frequently Asked Questions About Second Shooting
Do second shooters need to sign contracts? While I don’t always require them for casual assistance, it is becoming standard industry practice. A contract protects both parties regarding liability, payment terms, and copyright usage. If you are asked to sign one, read it thoroughly to understand who owns the rights to the images you take.
How much do second shooters get paid? Rates vary significantly based on experience, gear, and location. In a market like Vancouver, rates can range from $25 to $50+ per hour. Even if you are just starting, you should be compensated for your time and talent. Be professional when discussing money—establish the rate before the wedding day.
Is it necessary to have my own equipment? If you are hired to photograph (and not just carry bags), then yes, absolutely. You usually need a professional-grade camera body (preferably with dual card slots for backup) and professional lenses. You don’t need every lens on the market, but a versatile zoom (like a 24-70mm) and a fast prime lens (like a 50mm or 85mm) are standard requirements.
Can I put the pictures on my own blog or social media? This is the most controversial topic in second shooting. Always ask first. Some photographers allow it with a credit to their studio, while others require you to wait until they have blogged the wedding first. Some may not allow it at all. Respecting the primary photographer’s rules on image usage is the best way to maintain a good professional relationship.