Introduction
I would take a guess and say you're here because you are on the fence when it comes to whether or not you need a second wedding photographer, at your wedding. Honestly, it is wedding dependent because every wedding is different in its own way. Personally, I do not require a second photographer to be present when I am photographing weddings, but I do highly recommend them, for the following reasons:
- same shot, different angles
- getting ready images
- extra security
- more guest images
- speedy group images
What is a 2nd Photographer?
To start, a second photographer is hired to work alongside the original photographer, to photograph different angles and situations on the big day. They are there to assist the main photographer throughout the day. Second photographers are really a blessing in disguise.
It is important to note: the main photographer will hire the second photographer. Hiring a second shooter is not the wedding party's responsibility. Photographers typically have certain people they enjoy working with who are similar in style and trustworthy.
WOOD FLOWERS | BOUQUET
Same Shot, Different Angles
This is important for situations like first looks. With just one photographer, my job is to get the father's reaction to seeing his daughter in her wedding dress for the first time. With a second photographer present, I will focus on the groom, while they focus on the bride's reaction. Same goes for the bride and groom seeing each other for the first time. This is also great to consider for when you walk down the aisle. The main photographer's responsibility is to get everyone walking down the aisle. While a second photographers' responsibility is to get guests' reactions.
GROOM'S EMOTIONAL FIRST LOOK AT BRIDE
Getting Ready Images
While taking pictures of the bride and groom is possible with one photographer, there are situations where it's nearly impossible. If the bride and groom are required to get ready at different locations, two photographers are necessary. If the bride and groom are getting ready at the same time at the same location, two photographers are a good idea for the maximum number final images. Instead of one photographer jumping from room to room.
UNIQUE BRIDE | WHITE OAK EDITORIAL
Extra Security
Having a second photographer present is great for cases when equipment fails. Listen, it happens, technology sucks when it comes to this and it's not something we want to occur. I carry two cameras, for this purpose, but I can't take pictures with two cameras at once. So, if my equipment happens to fail during your fist kiss, I am grateful to have a second photographer present, so that they get the shot.
FATHER'S FIRST LOOK AT BRIDE
More Guest Images
Are you having a huge wedding? If so, it's nearly impossible for one photographer to capture at least one picture of every single guest. While a main photographer is capturing the newlyweds interacting with guests, a secondary photographer can capture guests interacting with other guests. So, all aspects of the reception are captured.
AT THE ALTAR | 2022
Quick Group Shots
While main photographer is taking pictures, the second photographer is getting the next group of people ready to be in front of the camera. For instance, during family pictures, they are getting grandparents ready to join the full family shot. This also gives the newlyweds the opportunity to get back to the reception faster.
More Photographs Overall
This doesn't mean double the photographs, but an average of 50 extra photographs per hour.
DETAILS | WEDDING DRESS
My questions for you.
If you can answer yes to four or more of the following questions, then you NEED a second wedding photographer.
- Are you worried about the main photographer missing an important shot?
- Are you having a large wedding (100+ guests)?
- Do you want photos of both sides of the wedding party getting ready?
- Do you want to be sure to get one picture of each guest?
- Do you want to be able to join party celebrations sooner?
- Do you want more images overall?
