How to become a second shooter?

[anoldsock]

...so I quit my job about two years ago to travel, and I spent about 8 months traveling within the States, to Europe and to Asia. I picked up photography as a hobby to document places I've been and things I've seen. Since then I've been pressured to work on two engagement shoots, and I continue to get compliments from friends and family. Now it was always a hobby for me, and I never considered a career in photography, but now I'm thinking that I should at least explore what's out there. Being said, does anyone have tips on how to score a part time gig as a second shooter, or maybe tips on how to learn more about the photography industry?

Anyway, any information would be greatly appreciated.

[ndsimm]

http://www.texasphotoforum.com/forum...ad.php?t=38831

http://www.texasphotoforum.com/forum...&highlight=tag

[HotHolly]

Those are 2 great threads. You'll find photography is like other jobs - you start at the bottom and work your way up. 2nd shooting isnt a starting place...unless you have mad skills. People usually start out as a tag a long and then 2nd shooters are chosen from there. :o)

[Aric C. Hoek]

Originally Posted by HotHolly

Those are 2 great threads. You'll find photography is like other jobs - you start at the bottom and work your way up. 2nd shooting isnt a starting place...unless you have mad skills. People usually start out as a tag a long and then 2nd shooters are chosen from there. :o)

Dito

[bigjon0107]

Originally Posted by HotHolly

Those are 2 great threads. You'll find photography is like other jobs - you start at the bottom and work your way up. 2nd shooting isnt a starting place...unless you have mad skills. People usually start out as a tag a long and then 2nd shooters are chosen from there. :o)

Yep, dont go in expecting to be a shooter. Just like anything, you start at the bottom and work your way up; and in this case that usually means moving lights and keeping track of gear. But make sure you look at every situation you are in as a learning experience. Some of those shooters that are willing to help have such vast amounts of knowledge and just watching them can improve you as a shooter.

Look around in the wedding section for "tag along" opportunities. Dont expect to get paid the first few times (except for gas, maybe) but once you start developing relationships with shooters, that is when your opportunities will rise.