A little bit of a different post is coming to you today! I’m going to talk a little about second shooting while sharing this beautiful DIY wedding I had the privilege of photographing with Julia from Amore Vita Photography. Make sure you check out her stuff; she is amazing!

Eddie and Marie had their beautiful intimate wedding at Angel’s Cottage on the Lake and it was simply stunning! She made most of the bouquets, the ceremony backdrop, the favors, and all the little decor in between. Julia and I swooned at all of the thought out detail!

Even though Matt and I have our own business, I still love to team up with other photographers and second shoot for them. There’s something so freeing about it; there’s little pressure and I get to be extra creative. My goal as a second shooter is to be where the primary photographer is not. If they’re shooting a little wide then I want to be in tight. If they’re getting a nice portrait I’m coming in and getting detail shots of hands or her dress or a simple look the groom gives his bride.

Here are a few tips on how to be a good second shooter for your primary:

*Talk with your photographer about what they expect from you for the day. Will you be off on your own or will you be by their side.

*Know ahead of time if you will be shooting on their cards or on your own.

*Always be early.

*Move around and do your best to avoid being in the main photographers way. You don’t want to photobomb their shot.

*Try to avoid using the same lens as the main photographer unless you are getting a completely different angle.

*Don’t get wide shots of the bridal party. The main photographer is already getting that so get in tight. Get faces and reactions or get a down the line bouquet shot.

*Be ready to stop shooting at any time to help the main photographer with lighting or posing if needed.

*If you’re doing any groomsmen shots, reception details, or cocktail hour while the primary is doing something else, make sure to get a wide variety.

All in all, as a second shooter you are there to support the primary and capture any moments that they may miss.

So get out there and second shoot!

You can view the whole post of Eddie and Marie’s beautiful DIY wedding from Amore Vita Photography here!