I wanted to get an idea of what folks do about booking a second shooter. I have closed my first wedding that requires that I hire one, but how far out seems to work best? I know from my perspective as a second shooter who also does his own weddings I prefer to wait until probably within 1 or 2 months of a wedding. However as a primary in need of a second shooter, I want the piece of mind knowing that someone is locked in.
I wouldn't ask a good primary shooter to commit to a second shooting gig more than about 2 months in advance unless they are happily booked for the year. With non-local photogs I want to work with and have to fly in, I try to trade...but then we're both losing a weekend so it seems more fair.
Generally 30-60 days out is when I finalize my 2nd shooters. And I prefer the same if I'm going to 2nd shoot. Logistically it's hard to guarantee further out than that when you are running your own business and can't risk turning down a wedding gig of your own for a 2nd gig.
