Here's the deal. I normally shoot by myself. I am used to covering a wedding by myself no matter how large. When I have someone with me, I shoot exactly the same way while they work on their portfolio and sponge up some of what I do. Maybe five times during the day, I will ask an assistant to grab my bag or lightstand.
After the wedding, I ask the assistant to cut their images down to the best hundred or so. Of those best hundred usually about 30-50 will make it into the final wedding coverage of 600-800 images. So not really a second shooter, who I think would provide a large portion of the coverage.
- It's a learning experience
- Very low job responsibilities
- You get to work on your portfolio
- You get paid
I think everyone that has worked with me has had a good time and learned a lot. I know that a lot of them still ask me for advice on their own businesses and photography.
I hope that helps clear up any confusion!