4 Reasons You Should Definitely Add a Second Photographer to Your Wedding Collection
As you’re exploring options for wedding photographers, have you noticed that some offer collections that include a second photographer? Sometimes called a “second shooter,” these additional photographers help your main photographer catch moments they may not otherwise have a chance to. Believe it or not, photographers can’t be in two places at once. I mean, we are talented, but no one is THAT talented!
A second photographer serves as a second set of eyes, adding fresh perspectives, and ensuring not a moment is missed. But depending on the size, location, and plan for your special day, a second photographer may not be for you. So…how can you decide?
Check out my top four ways to decide right now whether a second photographer is a “must book” for your wedding day!
- YOU AND YOUR FIANCE INTEND TO GET READY IN SEPARATE LOCATIONS
Remember when I mentioned photographers can’t be in two places at once? Well, this is a time you’d wish we could be! While you’re living it up on the morning of your wedding with your joyful, mimosa-toasting BFFs, your husband-to-be is going to be doing…whatever it is boys do. Cheers-ing whiskey? Comparing superhero socks? Who knows! But both of you will want those moments documented, and deciding which party is photographed at what time means moments will be missed.
By booking a second photographer, you’ll have someone dedicated to each party for the duration of that getting ready time. This also speeds up the portraits taken of each party, saving time on bridal party photos after your first look or ceremony.
- YOU’VE BOOKED A LARGE CEREMONY VENUE
Whether you plan to say “I do” in a cathedral or outside a sprawling villa, a single photographer trying to navigate a large venue can lead to missed moments, too. But by inviting a second photographer along for the ride, the pair can strategically coordinate who goes where and when to ensure nothing passes undocumented.
This also makes it easier to include reaction shots of your guests during key moments, and gives you multiple angles on special moments like the exchange of rings or that fairytale first kiss! Not to mention a camera stuck on the groom’s face as you walk down the aisle while another camera is capturing your grand entrance!
- YOU’VE PLANNED A TIGHT TIMELINE
I get it, wedding days are jam-packed with events and photos you hope to enjoy in your gallery. But if you’ve planned a full day and a tight timeline, your photographer won’t be able to catch every single moment happening simultaneously during the day. However, with a second photographer, you can harness that “two places at once” superpower again during bridal portraits or the first look.
For example, one photographer can take those breathtaking bridal portraits you can’t wait to print and share, while the other captures your untouched reception venue or your cocktail hour. A second photographer can also be very helpful in a logistic sense, ushering family members into position for the family portraits or wrangling unruly groomsmen. This prevents the larger portrait sessions from causing delays!
- YOU HOPE FOR A MASSIVE GALLERY
And why shouldn’t you!? It is your wedding day, after all!
Two photographers can simply capture more images than one can alone. So, if you can’t wait to see a gallery overflowing with hundreds and hundreds of images documenting every moment, emotion, and angle from the best day of your life, definitely add a second photographer to your “must-have” list!
A second photographer — and the added cost that comes with one — isn’t for everyone. But for some, they are the secret sauce that makes for a perfect wedding gallery! By diving into these four considerations, you’ll have the information to better decide if a second photographer is right for you! And if you still aren’t sure, drop me a comment or send me an email, so I can offer even more advice! Best of luck, and happy wedding planning!
