I've used a second shooter on occasion and they double as an assistant.
I do interview them and look at whatever work they can provide me to review. We go over what gear they do have and if I don't think it is sufficient then I provide body/lenses/flashes for them assuming they can get themselves up to speed on the operation of them.
I do pay them and pay them reasonably well. In exchange for this they turn over the images and can keep a copy for their own self promotion but not to turn around and try to use them for resale. I don't provide CD/DVD to the couple so resale is an integral part of my business plan.
I don't have an issue with assisting someone new learn the ropes. If they don't do it with me, they will do it with someone else or on their own. Those that won't give these people a shot because they are being protective of their territory are simply fooling themselves that by denying them work that this will work.
I don't use a second on all weddings, only those that are large enough that I think I am going to be running too hard to get everything the way I would like. Those that do work with me are also expected to do alot of the lighting moves, packing, etc.
It has worked well for me. I have three persons that I call on for a variety of assignments. I probably use them more for my work with an ad agency that I work with than in weddings. In all cases they do get paid. Even those that say they will do it for free to get the experience get paid. I can remember starting out and I was working for a studio. That is the way the studio owner treated me. I wouldn't feel right taking advantage of someone this way. The criteria pertaining to the use of their images post wedding is detailed in a signed agreement.
