becoming a second shooter

there are probably many threads about this anyways but I just thought I'd ad another one...

I really really want to become a second shooter for weddings I'm new to the area I live in and so far haven't met any local photographers.

So... do you go into photographers offices and apply, or call and ask, or write letters?

if anyone in north west arkansas would take a newbie under their wing, here I am!! I am learning more and more everyday about photography, I feel like I would be ready to become a second shooter by summer 08 hopefully by then I'll be more comfortable with camera functions and have more lenses and accessories added to my collection.

would appreciate any advice, thank you!

Emails and letters are easy to ignore. Walk into studios, or call up the people operating from home. Don't expect to be paid until you prove yourself. Some photographers will be wary they don't want to train the competition.

I don't at all expect to get paid at first, I would just be more than happy to have the opportunity!

have any of you photographers hired a second shooter who hadn't any previous bridal/wedding experience?

You'd tend to go in as an assistant unless you can prove your can take decent photos. At least that's what i'd have someone do.

breathless_moments

I am in the same situation here in south Arkansas. I do have one up and coming photog giving me a chance to shoot with him. I have done one and have a couple others coming up real soon. It is a blast to say the least. I would love to 2nd shoot with some others as well but scared to death to just walk in and say hey here I am need any help.

It would probably benifit you to put together a portfolio either online or in an album to show what you can do. That is what I am working towards anyway.

Good Luck!


Greg

I just emailed tons of people, and get 1 or 2 that reply.. most people DONT want 2nd shooters, because they think it's threatening to their business or they have it down pat with how they do it, and more people working with them causes stress and confusion.

I've second shot for atleast 6 different photographers.