Everything You Need to Know About Second Photographers
As a wedding photographer in Kansas City, wedding planner and wedding industry writer, I frequently receive questions from brides and engaged couples for a variety of reasons. I hear from those who are looking for the best local wedding photographer for their wedding, as well as those who read my wedding blogs and have questions about getting into wedding photography in Kansas City. Sometimes I hear from people who are planning a wedding and want to submit topics for me to write about, as well as general questions about the ins and outs of wedding photography.
One recent email I received from a bride in Los Angeles shed light on the lack of information available regarding wedding second photographers. Those within the wedding industry may be somewhat familiar with the term, but there is a surprising lack of clarity for those who are trying to become a wedding photographer, and for engaged couples.
Everything You Need to Know About Second Photographers | Wedding Photographer in Kansas City
With that in mind, today I’m sharing some specific industry knowledge for engaged couples who are considering a wedding photography package in Kansas City that includes a second photographer, and for photographers who are trying to break into the wedding photography market. (If that’s not you, check out other topics available on my blog here!)
Bridesmaids bustle wedding gown at The Brim in Kansas City. © Merry Ohler, Kansas City Wedding Photographer.
Wedding Photographer in Kansas City
If you’re already a wedding photographer in Kansas City, this post probably isn’t for you, but if you’re just starting your wedding photography business, or if you are an engaged couple who would like more information about second photographers, what they do, and whether and how much to tip them, read on!
What is a second photographer?
A second photographer is a photographer who works with a primary wedding photographer to photograph weddings. The second photographer is usually a photographer who is working to build their wedding portfolio and gain the experience needed to begin shooting weddings as a primary wedding photographer, but sometimes they are established wedding photographers in their own right. Second photographers help the first photographer by providing alternate angles and viewpoints of wedding photography coverage. They also assist with carrying gear, getting detail and candid shots, and more.
The second photographer is responsible for shooting throughout the day, but when their shift is complete, they give the SD cards with the digital images to the primary photographer. The primary photographer culls and edits the final images, and delivers them in a digital gallery or via USB drive. The second photographer is usually not permitted to post any images from the wedding on social media, but often they are permitted to use edit the images to their liking and use them on their own personal photography website.
Bride and groom exit the chapel at The Brim in Kansas City. © Merry Ohler, Kansas City Wedding Photographer
What is the benefit of having a second photographer at your wedding?
A second photographer provides you with more coverage and can help alleviate time constraints when it comes to wedding party photos. When there are two photographers, one is free to stay with the bride and her attendants while the second photographer accompanies the groom and his crew.
The benefits of a second photographer are also apparent when it comes to ceremony and reception photography. With two photographers, you are able to capture a more complete view of the ceremony and vow exchange, as well as the events of the wedding reception.
Aerial photo of intimate private estate destination wedding in Galveston. © Merry Ohler, Kansas City Wedding Photographer
Who hires the second photographer?
The primary or first photographer hires the second photographer. Typically, the primary wedding photographer has some second photographers they prefer to work with, or they have associate photographers that work as their second photographer.
If you have purchased a wedding photography package which includes a second photographer, your package price includes the fee your photographer will pay the second photographer. If you have purchased a wedding photography package which does not include a second photographer, and you would like to have one for your wedding, you will need to pay an additional fee to your photographer and have that feature added to your wedding photography services.
Kansas City Wedding Photographer
What is the difference between a second photographer and an associate photographer?
Second photographers are temporary photographers who work on a job by job basis. They are contracted to work for one specific date at an hourly rate. Associate photographers are photographers who regularly work for and with a primary photographer, under their business name. Associate photographers may be first photographers or second photographers.
Frequently, associate photographers are experienced wedding photographers in their own right, but they enjoy the wedding day photography experience most and prefer not to edit the final images. Associate photographers shoot the wedding day, but submit the images to the primary photographer for editing and delivery. Associate photographers do not usually interact with you aside from the actual day of your wedding.
Bride and groom walking back down the aisle at Flander Hall. Shot with Meredith Graves Photography. Photo by Merry Ohler, Kansas City Wedding Photographer.
Should I tip a second photographer? If so, how much?
If your photography team has done a great job and you are happy with their work on the day of your wedding, you may wish to tip them. While there is no hard and fast rule, 15-20% is usually in line with the industry standard. A good first photographer will share the tip with the second photographer, or you can divide this as you see fit.
How to become a second photographer?
The best way to become a second photographer is to reach out to established wedding photographers in your area and ask if they are looking for second shooters. Send them links to your work, and ask for a meeting to introduce yourself and talk about what you bring to the table. By working under an established wedding photographer, you’ll have the opportunity to build your wedding portfolio and gain the experience needed to start first shooting weddings on your own.
Do you have any lingering questions about second photographers? Let me know in the comments below and I’ll do my best to answer them!