meganbeth.com

Often times I get asked if people can second shoot for me, and although I normally work alone, well, me and Alberta, this year I would like to have more people come along with me to shoot and see how I do things. I’m not the best wedding photographer ever, but if it helps one person learn something, then I think it’s totally worth it. When I was just starting, I didn’t know photographers, so asking someone if I could second shoot was impossible. I didn’t know where to start, or who to ask, not to mention if I did get the opportunity to second shoot for someone, what to do.

Now, during wedding season, when I have free time, I like to second shoot for people for fun. It keeps my images fresh, and helps me think outside of the box without the stress of being the main photographer. These are some second photographer tips that I have learned by second shooting, and having second shooters.

1. Work those muscles. First and foremost the main photographer needs the shot, so if that means running to the car for the light, then run like the wind. Carrying the camera bag to and from so the main photographer can be shooting, you carry it. Extra batteries in the corner, they’re yours. Umbrella over the photographers head to protect from rain, hail, sleet, you got it.

2. Do your own thing, don’t be scared! Many times second photographers will follow around the first photographer looking for direction, when in fact the second photographer needs to just branch out and go shoot. Shoot everything the main photographer isn’t. If the main photographer is at the front of the room, be at the back. If they’re outside shooting the couple, go inside and shoot the cocktail hour or details. Also try using a different lens from the primary photographer to help capture different angles.

3. Let’s Talk Business. As a second photographer you are there hired to work for the first. So, even if you have your own business and a guest were to ask you for a business card, you are working for the primary photographer and should be handing out their card. Also be conscious about letting the main photographer get ‘the shot,’ so sometimes that means stepping out of the way for the most desired shots.

4. Cattle Herder. During the formal family shots, it is your job to collect family members and have them all lined up for the next shot. If a list is provided of shots and family members names you are the one that needs to make sure all the family members have gotten in. Sometimes teaming up with a cousin, or a friend of the bride and groom who knows everyone’s names and relation, helps speed the process along.

5. Bloggity Blog. NEVER blog the images before the main photographer. Even if you are a avid blogger, you need to refrain from using the images, at least for the time being. If they don’t mind that you blog them, always provide a link back to the main photographers website. But depending on the primary photographers wishes, you may not even be able to use the images at all. This also applies to using them on your website/portfolio, always ask the main photographer what their policy is, as many photographers differ.

6. Pearly whites. Smile, because you are representing the primary photographers business. This is your opportunity to not be stressed about ‘getting the shot,’ so have fun and enjoy it. Try new things, different angles, different lenses.

And these are some of my favorite images from this past wedding season shooting with my friend Kate:

Isn’t this the coolest kid you have EVER seen?!

Everyone was hustling around The Great Oak Manor trying to get ready, and HE wanted to come in the room…IN THE ROOM?! The girls gasped as they tried to figure out why he wanted to come in the room where she was getting ready. Don’t you know you’re not supposed to see the bride before she walks down the aisle, the girls said. He knodded, I know, but I need to tell her something.

Karen scrambled into the nearby powder room around the corner. She stood behind the wall nervously giggling while trying to contain the bottom tulle part of her dress making sure he couldn’t see any part of it. Chad made his way in the room and peeked around the first doorway with his eyes closed. Karen…I just wanted to tell you that I love you. As if the smile on her face wasn’t beaming brightly enough, she lit up and took a big deep breath, I love you too Chad, see you SOON!

Karen and Chad, thank you so much for waiting so patiently for this post. You two are an amazing couple with energy like I have never seen before. It seems as if your love beams out every blink and inch of smile, because it just can’t be contained inside. I feel so blessed to have been able to photograph your wedding, and witness not just the beginning of your lives as husband and wife, but a continuation of your devoted love. Thank you to all your wonderful friends and family for making it such an awesome day. Love, Megan Beth

Karen’s dress was so elegant and sophisticated.

No peeking.

Wow, work it girl!

Karen, you look absolutely stunning.

Karen and Chad did some major researching and timeline planning to make time for their own little photo shoots. They found this old rustic barn down the street in Chestertown, and it made the perfect backdrop for some amazing images.

The donkey and goat DID NOT want to miss out on the photo sesh with the gorgeous bride and bridesmaides.

Chad looked quite handsome as well!

I had an idea…I asked Chad what he thought… and really, how awesome is this?!

Then we headed to the Chestertown Marina with the groomsmen.

The cermony took place on the back lawn of The Great Oak Manor, which sits on the Chesapeake Bay in Chestertown, Maryland. With breathtaking views of the bay and the sun setting, it was a perfect spot.

This bridal party was seriously SO MUCH FUN.

One of my favorites from the day!

There are so many amazing little nooks and corners around the Great Oak Manor to shoot.

This is my top favorite reception detail image. Ever. Golden sun on the mason jars, gah, I love it.

Really though, it’s all in the details, and they rocked them.

The lighting was amazing, made for a perfect first dance.

Click HERE for some more slideshow goodness of Karen and Chad’s fabulous wedding at the Great Oak Manor!

When it rains, it pours. This was a hail storm. My computer and car had to poop-out at the same time, so here I am playing catch up on editing, emails, and sanity. One surprisingly good thing about not having a computer, I actually made it to bed before 4am. Craziness I tell you. Karen and Chad have been so patiently waiting for this post, and I promise the full thing is coming soon (and so many other phenomenal shoots)…I just had to post this sneak peek from their amazing wedding at The Great Oak Manor in Chestertown, Maryland first thing after I plugged my computer in.

They say you find love when you least expect it. And love was the last thing Brad was looking for after his big move from Arizona to Washington DC. Friends. He was looking for friends. And back in Arizona he found his friends at the Roller Derby, of course. After settling in he decided he would check out the DC Roller Derby scene with friends, and there, indeed he met one. She was petite, strawberry sun kissed hair, radiant smile, and with the most amazing laugh. And friends they became, they were inseparable the whole evening. Mutual friends and on lookers couldn’t help but notice, commenting that they thought ‘something big just happened.’ They went home that evening wondered if the other was feeling what they were feeling.

They say you find love when you least expect it. Or at the Roller Derby.

Kirsten and Brad, witnessing your friendship and love is truly amazing, and I feel so blessed to be able to photograph your wedding. You guys balance each other out so well, and your charisma for life together is undeniable. Your friends and family are wonderful, and are obviously so supportive and thrilled that you have found each other, literally coming from the other side of the world (hi Aussies!) Thank you so much for sharing with me your beautiful, intimate day. Love, Megan Beth

Also, a huge thank you to Melissa for driving all the way up to help me. You rock girl!

Kirsten’s mother has the most amazing gardens, a beautiful and obvious choice for the wedding to take place.

I loved her vintage 50′s retro heels, they suited the style of the day so well!

Kirsten was the twenty first person in her family to wear this amazing veil on her wedding day.

The headband, the J.Crew dress… so perfect for a backyard garden wedding.

She had the biggest, brightest smile on all day.

Brad…looking so handsome in his European cut suit.

Kirsten and Brad opted to see each other before the ceremony which, of course, resulted in a romantic and special moment for just the two of them. Not only did it leave plenty of time to get pictures of the two of them, it allowed them to enjoy the whole cocktail hour with their family and friends.

Their shoe selection ROCKED!

These two are definitely my favorites from the day.

Kirsten and Brad planned the entire wedding themselves in literally a couple of months. Not only did they do an amazing job, look at all the amazing details. WOW.

The fabulous Dionysus Kitchen was on hand with the freshest, organic most delicious food. When asked if they had anymore yummy figs, their response was, oh yes we grow them in our backyard, we’ll be right back. Could it BE anymore fresh?

Finally man and wife. BD+KH

Kirsten’s stepdad gave the most heart warming and touching speech. I don’t believe there was a dry eye in the house.

Kirsten and Brad are avid (pro) Bocce players, and it was a huge part of their big day. They offered for me to give it a whirl, but I declined seeing as I was amongst some of the best, and probably would have completely embarrassed myself. I’m going to practice at home, then take them up on their offer.

Let the games BEGIN!

His and hers Bocce balls…of course.

He woke her up before sunrise and told her of his plans to take her hiking and out for a nice dinner. Being half asleep, she heard him mention about how he wanted to suggest what she wear for dinner. Obviously this ‘outfit’ suggestion couldn’t wait until sunrise. He felt for her hand under the covers and after first getting the wrong finger, slipped on the most gorgeous sparkly rock you have ever seen. They were already best friends, now they were to start as a new team: husband and wife.

Kim and Geoff, your wedding was nothing short of spectacular and I can’t tell you how exciting it was to be able to photograph it. It is clearly evident that you guys are truly best friends and I promise you, that will take you so far in life. Your endless supply of laughter, high fives, and support will get you through any bumps in the road. Thank you for letting me witness your love. And keep ON DANCIN’! Love, Megan Beth

Gateway Florist in Annapolis did an amazing job with Kim’s florals. By far my most favorite bridal bouquet. Kim added a personal touch to it by bringing the Succulents all the way from her garden in Cali.

Kim’s Jimmy Choo’s. Shoe one, of three for the day. Why not?!

One good looking group of bridesmaids.

What a stud.

I love the that Geoff chose to put the guys in nice suits and colorful ties.

Oh and did I forget to mention the CHUCKS, and argile socks. AWESOME!

The whole wedding made the trip through the streets of downtown Annapolis, by foot, from the William Paca House to the Annapolis Yacht Club.

The gardens at the Paca House are unbelievable. Everywhere you turn there is something beautiful blossoming.

Brides can pretty much get anything under the sun on their wedding day. Kim: OH my goodness what an awesome dog, would you mind if we borrow her for a second? Dude runner: Certainly! Apparently she was a Great Dane PUPPY. Yikes, she was already bigger than me!

How cute are they?

I heart this one. Probably my favorite from the day.

Kim and Geoff allotted tons of time for pictures with just the two of them. Every couple deserves beautiful wedding photos and when enough time is scheduled to create those photographs you are more relaxed, and comfortable. This creates the fabulous, amazing photos with YOUR personalities shining through.

Doesn’t everyone stand in the middle of the road for the shot?!

Kim and Geoff had the most amazing first dance. They decided to spice things up a bit, and wow, THEY CAN DANCE! To get the full effect, check out this video.

I crack up every time I look at this image of Kim laughing during the best man speech….something about STREAKING!!…but I’ll let Geoff tell the story. Apparently he knows it well.

I know I say it all the time, but I have the best clients ever. Yes, that is Geoff, the groom doing the worm…HOLLA!

Wow, smokin hot!