Associate and Second Shooting
I am available as a lead and second shooter for other photography companies. As an associate shooter, I have the privilege of working both as a lead photographer and as a second shooter, ensuring that every wedding is covered with the highest level of skill and professionalism. Whether I'm leading the shoot or supporting the primary photographer, my approach remains focused on delivering a seamless and personalized experience for each couple.
As a lead photographer, I take charge of capturing the key moments with precision, creativity, and a keen attention to detail. I collaborate closely with the couple to understand their vision and deliver images that reflect their unique style and personality.
As a second shooter, I complement the lead photographer by capturing alternate angles, candid moments, and behind-the-scenes emotions that might otherwise be missed. My role is to ensure that no special moment goes unnoticed, while maintaining the same level of professionalism and commitment to quality that you expect from the main photographer.
In both capacities, I prioritize excellent communication, reliability, and a calming presence, always making sure the couple feels comfortable and at ease throughout their special day. Whether I’m in charge or assisting, my goal is to provide a smooth, stress-free experience and deliver a beautiful, comprehensive collection of photos that exceed expectations.
What equipment do you use?
I shoot with dual camera bodies (Sony A9ii and Sony 7R4) on dual SD cards in RAW. I primarily use my prime lenses (50mm, 35mm, and 85mm) but also use zooms during smaller bridal prep, church ceremonies, and tight dance floors (28-70mm and 70-200mm). I shoot with all Sony lenses, and a Profoto A10 flash. I don’t typically use off camera flash, unless especially dark or requested.
What are your rates?
For lead shooting, my rate is $200/hr and second shooting is $100/hr. I’m happy to jump on a call with the couple before the event to get to know them, and discuss final timeline issues as well as any email correspondence prior to the event.
Do you travel?
Travel will be decided on an as-needed basis. Anything further than 1.5 hours from Ocean City, NJ will require travel fees, and anything over 5 hours will require a hotel stay.
How do you transfer images?
All culled images will be sent via WeTransfer within 3 days of the event. Other arrangements can be made (sd card, dropbox, etc) if needed.
What I love about wedding days!
I have been associate shooting for multiple companies since 2014
How did you get into weddings?
I went to East Carolina University and received my BFA in photography in 2007. After college, I moved to NYC and interned at the Guggenheim Museum in their photo preservation department scanning in original film negatives, retouching and restoring images, and assisting on shoots to document exhibits at the museum. After my internship, I got a job with a large printing company doing retouching for weekly publications, clothing catalogs, and multiple Conde Nast publications. It was honestly an amazing time to be living and working in NYC and I cherish that time immensely. Towards the end of my time there, they were transitioning to overseas retouching, I realized that technology was not going to be kind to retouchers moving forward. I met a photographer who was from my home town who offered to train me on second shooting and I took her up on the offer! While I obviously knew how to use a camera, I didn’t realize how different portrait photography and wedding photography was from studio and lifestyle images. She taught me so much, and while our styles turned out to be different, I’ll always appreciate the things I was taught, and use so many of those key strategies in my current business.
What is your favorite part of the day?
My favorite part of the day are those in between moments. During bridal prep, when the girls leave to get dressed and the bride has those intimate moments with her mom. When the bride and groom walk out of the ceremony and have that first “OMG, we just did that!” moment. The final seconds before the couple gets announced into their reception, a room filled with all their favorite people in the whole world, who are all there to celebrate and love on this couple and their story. Those moments show the true love and appreciation the couple has for one another, their family, and their future.
What makes you different?
I’ve never met a couple that didn’t turn into friends. I’m a Gemini, so I thrive on adapting to my couple and creating a unique day for them. Whether they want to keep things classic and formal, or put on some Pink Pony Club during portraits, I am here for it! I make my couple the priority of the day and have no problem taking charge to stay on schedule and make sure the couple doesn’t get sucked into anything they don’t want. Getting a groom to finally come out of their shell, turning the couple who “never takes good photos” into my prized portrait couple, or leaving the night giving them huge hugs, I love on my couples as if they were my best friends! I’ll be in the corner of the reception, with a giant smile on my face, wiping away tears at the first dance, and then be dancing with you to Rollin’ as we get some gorgeous shutter drag shots on the dance floor later. I love it all! My favorite reception song is when a band covers Valerie and I can’t help but wiggle.
Favorite song at the reception?
My favorite reception song is when a band covers Valerie and I just can’t help but wiggle. As for a DJ, I love a subtle blend of classic rock and current jams all mashed up!