Bringing a Second Shooter Up to Speed

Last September in Charleston, I was shooting a wedding and the second shooter I hired showed up late. The ceremony was about to start, and I realized I hadn’t given him the must-shoot list. He missed the bride’s entrance, and I had to scramble to cover it myself. That’s when I knew I needed a solid second shooter briefing process. EvoForce has been a game-changer in organizing these details.

Creating a Must-Shoot List

The first step in a second shooter briefing is a detailed must-shoot list. This isn’t just a checklist; it’s a roadmap. Include key moments like the first kiss, cake cutting, and any special requests from the couple. Make sure your second shooter knows which shots are non-negotiable. This list should be shared well in advance, ideally a week before the event, so they have time to prepare.

Using EvoForce, I can easily share this list and update it in real-time if anything changes. This ensures that both of us are on the same page, and nothing gets missed. It’s about setting clear expectations from the start.

Timing the Handoff

Timing is everything. Decide when and where you’ll meet your second shooter on the day of the event. I usually plan to meet an hour before the ceremony to go over any last-minute details. This is also the time to hand off any equipment they’ll need, like lenses or flashes.

Make sure they know the timeline of the day. If the ceremony starts at 3 PM, they should be ready to capture guests arriving by 2:30 PM. Having a clear schedule helps prevent any confusion and ensures smooth coverage.

Communicating Style and Preferences

Every photographer has their own style, and it’s crucial that your second shooter understands yours. Spend some time discussing your editing style, preferred angles, and any specific techniques you use. This conversation can happen over a call or in person, but it’s essential to have it before the event day.

Share examples of your work and highlight what you love about those shots. This helps your second shooter align with your vision and maintain consistency across the final album. EvoForce can store these style guides and examples, making it easy to share with new team members.

Handling Unexpected Changes

No matter how well you plan, things can change. Maybe the timeline shifts, or the couple requests additional shots on the fly. Your second shooter needs to be adaptable and ready to pivot as needed. Discuss potential scenarios and how you’d like them handled.

Having a communication plan is key. Use tools like EvoForce to send quick updates or changes to the schedule. This keeps everyone informed and reduces the risk of missing important moments. Flexibility and clear communication are your best allies in these situations.

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