If you’re a photographer…or you want to be a photographer…and you’re ready for a bootcamp training on why second shooting is important, how to get into second shooting, and what to do to be a dang good second shooter. Keep reading.
We cover everything from the value of second shooting and how to harness it for your business growth, ways to land second shooting gigs and super practical tips there, all the way to a full passionate breakdown of how exactly to go about being the world’s best second shooter so that your main photographer will walk away thinking “holy heck… who was that person?? I need them for EVERY wedding forever!!!!”
The value of second shooting
Grows hands-on experience. Learn from and train under someone who knows what they’re doing. It will help build a portfolio and show yourself actually doing what you’re trying to do (aka marketing boost).
How to get second shooting gigs
Reach out to local photographers in your area. Send a GOOD pitch email (go to Episode 092 to learn how to write a good pitch email).
In your pitch email include:
- Share your gear, and examples of your portfolio.
- Share experiences you’ve had in the past, be HONEST and don’t try and make it sound like you’ve shot weddings if you genuinely haven’t.
- Share how YOU can SERVE that photographer. Never pitch asking for something solely from someone. Lead with value and service.
Connect in local FB groups, Honeybook connections, etc to find opportunities/second shooters needed calls.
Notes for being a dang good second shooter on the actual wedding day
- Be proactive – look for opportunities to step up. Don’t just sit in the corner waiting for the photographer to tell you every single shot to take. Look for opportunities to shoot and serve and take them.
- Be humble and teachable, but don’t be timid! If the main shooter makes a suggestion to you, LISTEN. If they ask you to run grab something, RUN.
- Check-in throughout the day. Communicate with your main shooter.
- Your focus should be serving the heck out of the main photographer. It’s not about you or making it about you. It’s not about marketing your business. NEVER give out your own business cards. You are an extension of the main photographer representing THEM. Not your own business.
- Be attentive. Look to be shooting where the main shooter isn’t unless they tell you differently. Your job is an amazing chance to capture stuff that the main shooter can’t. Lean into that. Don’t just try to get the exact shot they’re getting from over their shoulder.
- It’s not uncommon for you to not be able to share the work (depends on your photographer). Typically most photographers will let you use the photos you took for your portfolio as long as you wait a month or 2 after delivery to share them. And as long as you don’t submit them for publications or use them in paid advertisement. But again, don’t be shocked if the main photographer doesn’t allow you to use it at all. The main takeaway is experience. 34:25 Evie
- Never communicate with the couple directly. That’s not your job.
Show notes
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Athletic Greens: www.athleticgreens.com/HEART
Episode 092
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