How to find someone who needs a 2nd shooter where you live?

[Sauk]

Ok so I want to get into this type of work. But how the heck do you find someone in your area (SLC, UT) to hire you or let you shoot with them?

Is there a place to look online or would I have to just call around?

[FlyingPhotog]

If it were me, I'd grab the yellow pages and start making calls.

- Photographers (Naturally)

And for leads to photographers:
- Wedding Planners
- Rental Halls (Reception Site)
- Country Club Offices (Reception Site)
- Church Offices
- Bridal Shops
- Tux Shops
- Professional photographic associations in Utah
- Camera Clubs or Photo Groups (the one to which I belong has at least three folks who've shot weddings at one time or another)

[tim]

Google for wedding photographers in your area. Call them. Emails are easy to ignore.

[Sauk]

thanks for the information. That was my feeling on it, just wanted to reinforce that thought process.

[bps]

Matthew,

I just checked out your website and enjoyed looking at your work. Given that you are in SLC, there are probably dozens of wedding photographers in your area. I would suggest spending some time researching everyone's work, their style, and their blog (if they have one) in an effort to get to know their personality. Since it looks you are transitioning into full-time photography, you want to try and invest your time with someone you admire. A second shooter can, and should, earn money (commensurate with your skill level). But the real value comes in the priceless things you learn along the way. It's also a great way to foster professional relationships.

Once you've established a prioritized list of who you would like to work for, then it's time to start making contact. There's pros and cons when comparing email versus the phone, and you'll need to weigh both to see what is right for you (and the person you are trying to work for). But one thing's for sure: do your best to make a humble approach and be sure to let the pro know what it is that you can do for them. Show them that you are willing to work hard for their business and the benefit of their customers. It's not uncommon for a pro to receive a lot of requests for second shooters, so you need to find a way to separate yourself and show them that you are sincere. And last but not least, don't get put off by someone if they don't respond right away. They may already have a solid list of second shooters to call upon, or they may be extraordinarily busy at the time. Just keep diligently working on it, and you will eventually find a position.

In some ways, the concept is similar to getting into sports photography...of which you already know something about. ;)

Good luck on the search and be sure to let us know how it turns out!
Bryan

[Sauk]

Thanks Bryan. Yeah I plan on getting a list put together of local photogs that shoot them. Heck I would not mind if they would just give me 10 minutes of their time to answer questions about it lol

thanks for taking the time to give me some information