Many times when you are photographing a large event, such as a wedding, it is pretty much impossible for just yourself to capture every single special moment that is taking place throughout the event. Hiring a second shooter can help... they can give you the peace of mind that you need to know that you will have another set of eyes to photograph around the event and it also gives you peace of mind that you are doing all you can to make sure that your client is happy with the photos that were captured.

Hiring a second shooter can be nerve-racking, especially if it is someone you have never worked with before, but if you plan ahead and the two of you are both on the same page, it will be a pleasant experience. Here are 3 things you must remember if you are going to hire a second shooter.

Where To Find A Second Shooter

If you need a second shooter, you want that person to be the best they can be. Remember, they will be working for you and their work ethic, skills and personality, whether good or bad, will reflect on your business. Try to think about various photographers that you know, possibly one that you have worked for in the past that may want to return the favor.

It is good to always be looking for second shooters that you can use. If you know you regularly will need the assistance of a second shooter because you work with so many large weddings, it may be beneficial to have a page on your site dedicated to second shooters and what you are looking for exactly.

Second shooters can vary in their photography. Perhaps it can be someone who is looking to expand their portfolio. Or, maybe it is someone who is newer to photography and trying to learn and see what shooting an entire wedding day is like. Maybe it is a seasoned photographer who is just looking to make some extra money on the side. No matter the type of person, you want to make sure that you can work well and trust this person to do their job right and who will be a great representative of your company name.

Make Sure To Have A Signed Contract

It is important to have a contact that your second shooter can sign upon agreement of the work to be done and the amount you will pay that person. If you use second shooters regularly, it may be great to have a contract template that you can change up depending on the situation and person you are hiring at the time.

Getting a contact signed before the event is important, even if the person is a good friend that you have worked with before. You never know what type of situation can occur and having that contract with the exact terms of the job will be there in case something happens such as the wedding getting canceled, etc.

The contract should include the entire scope of work that will be done during the job you have hired the second shooter for. You will want to list out what is expected of them, how much they will get paid, the date and time of the event and what happens in case the event is canceled, postponed or anything else. You also want to include any information about insurance, travel expense coverage, and anything else that you think is necessary.

Communication Is Key

Communication is key. Just like you will be communicating with your bride and groom before the wedding, you want to communicate with your second shooter who will be working with you. You want to make sure they have their contract and any other necessary documents and information regarding the event prior to the date of the actual event. They should know what to wear and what to expect from the specific venue you will be working at so they can plan ahead as well. If you know you will be working outside, it is good for them to know in case it is rainy, they need some specific equipment or simply a jacket in case it is chilly.

On the day of the event, make sure the two of you have a meeting at the venue to plan who will be shooting what, so you can both divide and conquer throughout the day.

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Have you ever hired a second shooter and have a good tip or advice to share? Tell us below!

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