This season I am breaking apart a bit more of what I am looking for in a second photographer vs a film assist/second photographer. Over the years I have seen many different approaches to being a second photographer, and so I have found outlining expectations going into a day to be key. Every day I have found that I need something a bit different too - so ensuring we are aligned on the day and the needs of teh day is important.

Overall on wedding days I like to level set I don’t have that much time to chat - I am highly engaged in the day, moments happening, and trying to ensure I am delivering a gallery that is to my expectations. Typically we are chatting about what is coming next, what lens to be on, where the focus should be etc. I am always happy to recap or chat the day after, or catch up with coffee on other days:)

SHOOTING FILM: I have outlined for each my expecations for shooting film between Second Photographer and Film Assist/Second below.

PAYMENT: I will outline the needs of the day and the total payment / hours ahead of time. The hours listed on the timeline are the agreed upon hours paid. I will send Venmo or Paypal after the event. If you are being paid over $600 you must provide a W9 form.

DRESS: Most of the weddings I take are cocktail attire, but a lot of my weddings are formal weddings. The goal is for us to blend in with the guests, but also that we are able to do all the things we do (get lowwww, raise hands up, maybe lay on the ground, maybe stand on a chair etc). dresses(ideally not strappy), nice dress pants, long skirts. Skirts/Dresses should be at least midi length (to allow for all the things above lol). Please no bras showing.

For black tie events or formal, a dress or pants with a blazer are great options. Patterns and colors are totally fine - please try to blend in with guests. Do not wear jeans. Please look professional. If you do not appear professional, you may be asked to leave and no payment will be made for services. (things like tee shirt / leggings would prompt this.). If you have any questions about what is appropriate, please don't hesitate to reach out.

CREDIT/SHOWCASING WORK:

Each wedding is different and would come with different sharing parameters depending on the couple. Some couples have do not share work in their contracts, some allow limited sharing. This will be discussed in the terms of each event.

I ask you do not share images for 3 months post the wedding date. Please do not tag the couple in images, and please add credits for the work you are showcasing. For example - any image should say “second shot for @kellyrussophoto”

SECOND PHOTOGRAPHER

Pay $50-$75 per hour, typically there 7-9 hours.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS:

-positive attitude/willingness to go above and beyond

-energy is there to get incredible photos, if I have a second, it is because I need one and value having the additional perspective on the day.

-takes initiative to set up additional details and maximize each shot.

-will need to split apart to capture parts of the day separately - example getting ready photos or cocktail hour/reception space.

-obvious but know camera well, know flash, shoot with dual cards.

-shoots film

-main photographers who photographs own weddings

-deliver 1000+ photos

-typically has been a film assist/second photographer

-don’t lean too heavy into trends or we can always chat about preferences. Meaning don’t go heavy on tilting photos. One or two to fill the frame is great, but otherwise I can do it in post.

WHAT AM I LOOKING FOR IN PHOTOS

-well-composed photos, someone who can see what I am getting, and complement it.

-checking in on types of lens to use, or where to focus attention

*I typically do not have second photographer shoot film unless they are alone for specific parts of the day, and I would like on film for those parts. You also must be an experienced film photographer. I will provide the film and develop the film. I will share the film to view/learn from but do not let second photographers use film for marketing/portfolio.

FILM ASSIST / SECOND PHOTOGRAPHER

Pay $35-$40 per hour - typically there 4-6 hours, typically getting ready through cocktail hour. Do not include in dinner head count. Are not expected to lead/direct different portions of the day.

KEY QUALIFICATIONS:

-positive attitude / willingness to go above and beyond

-help with changing film, carrying cameras /lights, moving lights.

-can load 35mm film, holga 120 film

-photograph key moments as a digital backup as I shoot film. Think first kiss/coming down the aisle or first look.

-shoot 1-2 packs of polaroids on certain days.

WHAT AM I LOOKING FOR IN PHOTOS

-usable photos of key moments if film does not execute

-at aperture 2.8, shutter speed 400 for key moments

*if you choose to shoot film yourself on these days to practice/learn I have the following guardrails:

  • I do expect you to share the film with me after the wedding. I want to ensure the couple and their day is top priority and that includes me being able to make the decision if any photo taken on the day should be included in the gallery.

  • No key moments should be on film as those you would be on digital while I am shooting film.

  • the expectation is you are there to shoot digital. 1-2 rolls would be the maximim of film shot.

additional angles - while I am getting the B&W image - other would be above getting additional angle