At this stage I wouldn't feel comfortable/ready to be hired to do a wedding, but I'm hoping that it's not too far off in my future.

What would you recommend doing to prepare for getting that first booking? I'm hoping to build on a wedding portfolio by second shooting a couple weddings (I have a couple possibilities this fall), right now my portfolio is stictly family/kids/seniors, but is there anything else I can be doing? As far as networking the area here (as with most areas I'm sure) is so saturated with photographers I don't even know where to start.

Those of you that have been around the block, what were some of your most useful resources when you started out? (as far as getting exposure in the industry) and what did you find that brides expected from you from the start? Are there actually brides out there that hire even without an extensive portfolio as long as you "sell" yourself to them? LOL I laugh because when I got married I was brutal when looking for a photog...

Anyway... I know Rome wasn't built in a day.... I'm 100% prepared to put in the time and hard work. I'm just not sure where to start.

Second shooting, second shooting, second shooting! Do it until you feel the rhythm of weddings and are comfortable with what is required. then continue second shooting for a while longer. It is different when you are responsible for everything - so don't think you are ready to move on until you work almost automatically anticipating the first shooters needs without having to be told what to do. Work under the guidance of the person you are second shooting for... after you have more experience then ask if they can refer a wedding that is on a budget that they wouldn't take because it is not their price. It is not hard to get booked without an extensive portfolio because there are always bargain hunters.

Ask to be taught by your first shooter about post-processing and then volunteer to do a whole wedding a few times. Get to know what it takes.

Try not to sell yourself when you meet clients... The most important thing is to listen to your clients, show interest in them, connect and get to know their personality. People buy the comfort of knowing that you will take care of them. They are not buying pictures they are buying confidence. You were brutal because you were looking for trust... just a guess...

Start going to classes with your local PPA, join WPPI, take online classes and workshops. Second shoot with multiple people when you can. Learn different approaches. Study business and marketing. Define what you want out of this. But most of all, have fun!
Best of luck to you,
Stuart

I'm not all that experienced but perhaps I can talk as someone new and as a somewhat recent bride (last year).. Personality is key, I totally agree. I always try and listen and connect with brides, offer them advice like (oh this cake place is great, this alterations lady is great) and just be friendly with them. We hired our photographer on her perceived personality (which sure changed later.. heh).

Ditto to Stuart-couldn't have said it any better.

Didn't recognize you at first with your new avatar, Stuart!

I am also in the same boat as Katie. I know I need to be second shooting, but I can not seem to find anyone needing a second shooter in my area. I have sent emails to a few local photographers letting them know that I am available to second shoot if they ever need someone, but not bitters yet... What you guys suggest for getting some second shooting gigs?