First of all, Happy May 1st! Craziness. Where has the year gone?! To be honest, as I am sitting here in the sunshine… at Starbucks… drinking a passion tea lemonade… in the SUNSHINE (did I say that already? ;)) I am quite enjoying it. May first. Summer. Can’t wait!

With wedding season right around the corner, many of you will be second shooting or assisting. For some of you it will be your first time. Maybe even your first time working at a wedding. So… Here are a few things i’ve learned FROM second shooting myself, as well as having second shooters work for me.

#1. Expectations

– Be clear on their expectations. Talk about if you can use the photos, where you can post them, and when you are allowed to post them. Every photographer has different rules so don’t assume it’s ok.

#2. Never stop shooting

– Second shooters are great for getting that second angle, or creative shot we may not be able to get. Peek through trees. Get candids of the wedding party while they are shooting the b+g. Shoot the location. Even get shots of the photographer doing their thiiinnnggg. ;) There is oh-so much to capture on a wedding day. NEVER STOP SHOOTING.

#3. Remember, you are working for THEM

– You have your own business? Great. You do things differently? Cool. That is so awesome! :) Remember though, they are essentially your employer. You are representing THEM. It is THEIR business. It is THEIR client. DO NOT use this time to promote yourself to the guests or get chummy with the bride. Yes, be friendly, but it speaks volumes if you can be respectful and put them before yourself. There is nothing better than having a great relationship with others in the industry. It makes a HUGE difference. So, help each other out and be their #1 fan.

#4. The little things

– Go above and beyond. Get them water. Grab their bags. Keep an eye out for dresses that could be straightened out again. Watch the shot list, and know the timeline. Be positive and encouraging. Wedding days can be stressful, so the little things can help oh-so-much.

#5. Know your gear

– Simple as that. This should be an obvious, but a wedding day is NOT the time to experiment or learn how to use it. No ifs, ands, or buts.

#6. Eye contact

– Eye contact is important especially during the ceremony. Check back every couple minutes to make sure they don’t need you to move or get a different shot. Most importantly, do not ever get in their way. You know how annoying over the shoulder readers are?? Yup. Same with over the shoulder shooters. They are perfectly capable of getting the shot, so be creative.

#7. Dress to impress

– Be professional and respectful. Not sure if your outfit is ok??  Check with the photographer. There is nothing wrong with double checking. :)

Hope this helped! I’d LOVE your feedback. :) Have a wonderful sunny day!

Taliah xx