The ethics and etiquette of being a second shooter

April 28, 2013 James Tang

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Each primary photographer will have different ideas on what are the responsibilities of the second shooter, and what the second shooter shouldn’t and should be shooting. This blog post reflects only my personal opinion and experience. It doesn’t represent the standards for all second shooters. If you’re unsure about something it is always best to check with your primary photographer. Communication is the key to forming a pleasant and long lasting working relationship.

For me, a second shooter represents my brand in front of the clients. Everything that my second shooter does will reflect on my brand so it is important that he/she understands the responsibilities and work with me throughout the day. I prefer to work with people that I know and have worked with before. It’s always hard working with a new second shooter because we all shoot differently and have different approach to wedding photography. With that said, I’ve had my share of second shooters and have compiled a basic “Do’s and Don’ts” list for myself when I second shoot for someone else. It’s the same list that send out when I ask someone to second shoot for me.

Do’s:

Always present yourself professionally.
Be on time and if you’re late make sure to notify the main photographer.
Be friendly and courteous to all guests and vendors.
Act busy even when you’re not busy.
Anticipate things that may happen throughout the day. Wedding is very dynamic so watch for things that may happen away from the bride and groom.
Ask a lot of questions so that expectation is set correctly for both parties. If you’re unsure about something ask the main photographer.
Let the main photographer know when guests/vendors request contact information. I usually will give you a few business cards to give out.
Get the shot list done first before you try something new. I have a basic shot list that I give out to my second shooter.
Shoot from different angles than the main photographer.

Don’ts:

Don’t give out your contact information. You’re at the event on behalf of the main shooter so only give out the contact information of the main shooter and his/her business.
Don’t become friends with clients, guests, and vendors.
Don’t post your photos before the main photographer. Each main photographer will be different so always check with the main photographer to see how long before you can post up the pictures.
Don’t tag clients on your photos posted on social media sites.
Don’t talk about your photography business to vendors and guests. You’re at the even representing the main photographer’s brand and that should only be the focus of the day.
Don’t stand around and look bored. It reflects really badly on the main photographer even if you actually have nothing to do. There’s always something to shoot so try to look busy at all times.
Don’t shoot the same angles as the main photographer. If you must, use a much different focal length.

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James Tang

Owner/Photographer at James Tang Photography

I'm a hybrid wedding and portrait photographer. I use medium format 6x7 film and full frame digital cameras for my work. I'm based out of Southern California but have traveled throughout US and part of Europe to document weddings. My wedding photography style is modern, elegant, and timeless. Occasionally, I will do creative personal projects for fun.