All photos from this post were taken by Poplin & Pine for Jolie Jo Photos on March 11, 2023

When I first started my photography business in 2020 and up until the end of 2022, I swore off weddings. I had heard nightmare stories about unhappy brides, freak accidents during weddings, failed memory cards— you name it, and it was happening to photographers all around me.

So I said “NOPE. Not for me! One day to get everything right and no do-overs? Count me out!”

But here we are. You read the title. You know where this is going.

Don’t get me wrong, I love weddings! LOVE them. Planning them. Going to them. Looking at them on Pinterest. Helping set them up. But actually being responsible for capturing all those special memories? Notsomuch.

On March 11, 2023 I finally conquered my fear of photographing weddings. I had the opportunity to be a second photographer for Jolie Jones, and what an amazing opportunity it was! We had a quick chat the week before the wedding just to get to know one another and we hit it off right away! 

If you’re looking to be a second photographer, here are my tips for being a first timer… from a first timer:

1. Talk to the lead photographer! And I do mean TALK. Pick up the phone or do a zoom call. Get to know each other and make sure it’s a good fit personality wise! The day goes much smoother when you know you’ve got a good connection with the person you’re representing. 

2. Be honest about your skill level and make sure they are willing to teach and guide you. You’re representing them during this wedding just as much as you may be building your portfolio, but until it’s YOUR business being hired, they come first. Represent them well and be honest about your skills. 

3. Do your research! Look up the venue you’ll be at. Plan your travel there, get a feel for what the layout is, and start thinking about the day. If your lead has given you a guide and wedding day timeline, read it! You don’t need to know it by heart but know what the expectations and general plan for the day are. 

4. Don’t be afraid to have fun. You’re at a WEDDING… be excited! Everyone is there to celebrate and while you do have a job to do, you’re there celebrating the day too. You help set the tone during the in-between moments of the day.

5. Be confident! If you need to give some direction during portrait time, do it. You don’t have to be a drill sergeant but have a firm voice! You can have fun and provide some structure at the same time.

If you’re looking to get into weddings, reach out in local photography groups and look for a photographer who may need an assistant or a second. The pay varies depending on experience but it’s a great way to get started and see how weddings flow, without just leaping in and getting in over your head. Weddings are a big deal for a couple so it’s good idea to build your portfolio and experience in order to deliver a quality service.

Have you jumped into weddings? Drop your tips in the comments!

All photos from this post were taken by Poplin & Pine for Jolie Jo Photos on March 11, 2023