Acting as a second shooter

[yap'in]

So i have a wedding coming in June/July, a buddy of mine has asked me to be a second shooter for him.

what role should i play ... if any; should i run around taking pictures of audiences while he gets the couple?

[cassarilda]

what I tell my 2nds is to basically be where Im not - for a different angle etc, and also for events I cant get (candids during family portraits etc)...

But ask your mate what he wants, where he wants you to be etc - I usually do that anyone on the day, explain what I know is going to happen, certain shots I want to capture etc.

best of luck.

[yap'in]

thanks

maybe i'll hang out at the bar and talk with the bride's maids ...........

[theboywithnohats]

Im a second photographer for a couple of wedding photographers, I just basically mix in with the crowd and get the candids...and occasionally different angles to the formal shots :) best seeing what he wants...each photographer has their own style so they'll all want different things!

[C.Steele]

I second shoot and what I do is basically think about what will support/compliment the main photog's shots the best. I am always aware of what lens he has on, what angle and composition he is going for, etc. Then I try to take supporting shots.

For example, if he has a wide on and is doing larger group shots, I will put on my 70-200 and focus on getting tighter shots of couples in the group etc. Also, when formals are going on it's a great time to be a "sniper" and get some of the expressions from the on lookers. Mom's expression when Dad and Daughter are getting photographed is always a good one. Same applies for first dance, etc.

Best of luck!
Chris