Six Reasons you Need a Second Photographer on your Wedding Day

Every once in a while I have a couples ask if I can make them a custom collection, without a 2nd shooter. I understand where they are coming from – many couples are opting for more simplistic weddings and don’t feel they really need to pay for TWO professional photographers to cover everything. And while I understand, I strongly emphasize that they should consider two (at least for part of the time) for the reasons listed below.
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1. I can capture more real moments when I’m working with a 2nd shooter. For example – during your ceremony I’ll likely have our second shooter stay in the back...meanwhile, I will sneak quietly around the sides, zooming in on your faces while you say your vows, your family’s faces to catch any of their emotion, etc.  

2. We can capture events happening in different locations. Many couples want to maintain the tradition of not seeing each other before their ceremony, so there is a chunk of time at the beginning of the day that they’re in different places. I can’t be in both places at the same time, as much as I’d like!  The anticipation and excitement before your ceremony are moments you won’t want us to miss! So I usually stay with the bride while our second photographer hangs out with the groom. As much as we prefer working as a team, there are usually going to be times during the day where it’s more practical for us to split up in order to capture everything that is important.

3. A second photographer captures different angles of the important moments. Like walking down the aisle or a reveal. I want to capture the brides face. A second shooter can capture the grooms face. 

4. A second shooter can help me prep for epic photos. While I finish photographing something, they can scout the next location and start preparing lighting if needed. Sometimes they’ll pose so I can test the lighting on them, making sure my camera settings are perfect before the couple even steps into the photo. It’s these behind the scenes duties of a second shooter that make them such a valuable asset to our team.

 5. A fresh set of eyes means you’ll have more photos AND more creative photos. Every photographer captures things from their unique perspective. I also ask the second shooters I work with to purposely use different lenses and angles when shooting. Having two photographers is the best way to ensure we’re providing complete coverage of your wedding day!

6. Having a second shooter allows me the flexibility to take a breather and drink of water when I need to. And yes, this affects the quality of your photos! There is so much going on during a wedding day, that having somebody to back me up really becomes a game changer. I’m definitely more creative when I’m hydrated and have someone to help with my gear, ideas, and staying on schedule. Just sayin’ : )
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