I’ve been so looking forward to capping off these blog series with part three of the art of second shooting!! If you missed it before catch up with us by reading through part one – The Attitude of a Second Shooter and part two – The Expectations of a Second Shooter!
Second shooting is one of my favorite ways to grow as a photographer and I wholeheartedly believe that becoming a great second shooter will do you nothing but good!! I’ve found that in my experience both as a second shooter and having others second shoot for me – it is vital to fully understand and know your ROLE as a second shooter, which is what we are talking about today! While this will vary from photographer to photographer, I believe these tips will be helpful and applicable to every second shooting position you will find yourself in – no matter who you are working for! These are 3 key things I always like to keep in mind when second shooting!!
Capture candid emotion. While the main photographer may be busy capturing a key moment, there are typically other incredibly memorable things happening around you. Be aware of what is going on and do your best to capture a broader perspective of what is taking place on the wedding day. Be ready to snag a beautiful of Mom as her son see’s his bride. Or grab a shot of the flower girls who are oohing, ahhing, and twirling in their beautiful dresses. Be intentional about capturing the “out of the box” emotion that is taking place around you, instead of just waiting for the main photographer to tell you what to do.
Shoot “close up” detail shots! This means you should shoot with a longer focal length than the main photographer. If the main shooter is shooting the bridal party with 50mm, shoot from a different angle with an 85mm to capture a tighter shot of them laughing or a side angle of the bouquets! Sometimes the side angle of the bridesmaids laughing or groomsmen goofing off are my favorite!
Push yourself creatively! This is the time where the “money shots” aren’t your responsibility! Therefore, think outside of the box. Push yourself to take risks and capture the day with a completely different perspective than you typically would. Second shooting can be so inspiring because it truly pushes you to create beautiful images even if you don’t have the seemingly perfect angle or lighting. It trains you to shoot your own weddings with more creativity and make the tough situations work. The ring shot below was taken at night in a dark reception – because there wasn’t a chance to photograph them any other time during the day. Sometimes you just have to make it happen – and when it happens beautifully, it’s a pretty successful feeling!
I hope these posts have given you the push to break out of your comfort zone and start second shooting! Or better yet – I hope they push you to be an even better photographer regardless of what your role on a wedding day is. There is always room to grow – for each and every photographer out there! Happy Monday, friends!
Much love,
Jessica Lauren
(Sidenote! ALL of these images were taken while second shooting with my sweet friend Courtney Smith Photography. Hopefully these will give you real life perspective on the kinds of image you CAN take while second shooting!!) :)
