07/26/2026
A photographer messaged me the other day asking about second shooting, and it made me realize something: not many photographers talk about how to actually be a great second shooter.
After every wedding I second shoot, I write down what I learned, what I could’ve done better, and how I can better serve the lead photographer next time.
Looking back, I wish I could redo some of the weddings I second shot when I was first starting because I’ve grown so much over the years.
Here are three things that have made the biggest difference:
Ask questions. Before every wedding, I ask the lead photographer what they like, what they don’t like, and how they prefer to work. Do they want BTS of them working or just the couple? Do they like Dutch angles, intentional blur, or off-camera flash outdoors? The more I know beforehand, the better I can support their vision. I also make it a goal to deliver 40+ BTS videos throughout the day.
Support first, photograph second. Some of the most valuable things you can do have nothing to do with your camera. Grab their water, hold a fan, fluff the dress, run to their bag, carry gear. I’m constantly asking myself, “What can I do right now to make their day easier?”
Capture what they can’t. Some overlap is inevitable, but I never want my gallery to be filled with duplicates. I focus on different angles, guest reactions, candid moments, and details they may have missed. If they’re shooting landscape, I’ll switch to portrait.
Being a great second shooter isn’t just about taking beautiful photos, it’s about making the lead photographer’s job easier while helping them deliver the strongest gallery possible. Let me know if you would like a Part II!
Shoutout to these incredibly talented photographers featured in the BTS from these videos!
ARCADIA STUDIOS | DESTINATION WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER
Knoxville Wedding Photographer
Florida Wedding Photographer
Ansley Suddeth | Atlanta Wedding Photographer
ATLANTA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER | MALLORY
FLORIDA WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER | KELSEY
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