Another "how much should i charge" thread

I was recently approached by a couple getting married in may 2011 to second shoot their wedding. I am new to weddings and have only second shot two weddings. I have to consider that I am still building a portfolio. How much would be appropriate to charge the couple to second shoot ( groom coverage getting ready in the beginning ) . I will be including a disc of all images. I am located in the NYC area

Thanks for taking the time to respond
-Mike

The bride and groom shouldnt hire 2 different photographers. It doesnt sound like your being hired as a second shooter, but more as another main shooter covering something different.

I would contact the main photographer if you are actually second shooting how much you are getting paid. Ive seen anything from free to $300.

I agree; it sounds odd that they would hire two different photographers and not coordinate the effort. As far as rate, it's always in impossible question for someone other than you to answer, but I might say that since you're a second shooter being a primary for the first time, maybe a couple of hundred above your second shooter rate.

Yeah, that's a rather odd arrangement. Usually the primary will bring along a second and it's typically a well coordinated effort. I would try to straighten out the situation with the couple. Maybe have them speak to the primary of their intentions and make necessary arrangements so you don't get in the way.

That said, typical second shooting gigs in the NYC go for $250-$400 I would say.

They have a main photographer, he's from California and they're flying him into NYC. Basically they want me to cover the groom side getting ready and some posed shots of the groomsmen etc. then i'm basically an additional shooter during the ceremony and reception.

Again, thanks for your help
-Mike

You really need to contact the main photographer and talk to him. Chances are there is an exclusivity clause in his contract and by hiring you as well, the main photographer may walk off the job.

Actually, I think the OP should have the couple contact the main explaining that they are arranging for this. Then perhaps the photographers can talk to each other and hash things out.

I've been paid nothing financially, and up to AUD $100 for second shooting. What I have gained in experience however, has been invaluable.

But the more pressing matter is what the others have said.

i have contacted the main photographer and just waiting for reply. thanks for the advice. However, i was wondering how much you pros pay another pro to shoot a wedding with you?

Depends how much I'm being paid, the contractor's level of competence, and how much work I'll actually get from them. Most of the time, I tend to use very little of their work.

Either way, I pay for their time, which starts from $100 and it only goes up from there.

For yourself, ask how much you would get you out of bed. Break it into per hour rates.