Should we add on a second wedding photographer (second shooter)?
First off, I just want to clarify my language preferences. I really don’t like the term second shooter. I know that is industry standard but when you are not in the industry and overhear people discussing “shooters”, it means a bunch of different things and I am guessing people don’t think about photography. I am also super anti guns and I do not want anyone associating my work or me with something gun related. So… second photographer. Additional photographer. Other photographer. You get the picture.
When I chat with potential clients about photographing their weddings, I always recommend adding a second wedding photographer (some of my packages include one). There are a lot of things that need to be taken into consideration. But having a second photographer will always be beneficial to your wedding. Here is a list of my top three reasons!
- As your main photographer I cannot be in two places at once. Most couples want a lot of things captured but don’t take into consideration how many of those things are going on at the same time. Most likely you will want getting ready images taken before the ceremony with the bridal party and the groomsman. You will want a photograph of your fiance’s reaction to you walking down the aisle. Simultaneously you’ll want a shot of you entering the ceremony. I’ll be taking family formal photographs most likely during your cocktail hour. Every moment important to you should be captured and you can ensure that happens when you have a second photographer.
- You will end up with a larger variety of pictures. Every photographer has their own perspective of an event and their own shooting style. When I recommend a second shooter I already have a list of photographers I am ready to work with. I always pick a photographer whose style varies from my own so that you get the most out of having that second perspective around. A lot of people think of a second photographer as someone to fetch equipment and follow the main photographer around. This couldn’t be further than the truth. I think that a second photographer is just as important as the main photographer because they will be catching all the moments you’ll be missing as the main act of the event.
- You will receive a higher volume of photos. Hiring a second photographer will ensure that you get the most photos you can from your special day! It’s very simple, that second will get to wander around the event catching photos of your parents dancing or your cousin giving your aunt a hug, or the laughter at the speeches from the crowd while the main photographer will get to have all of their attention on the toast giver, or the couples first dance. Because like stated above, I can’t be in two places at once.
The moral of the story, to get the most out of your event, having an additional photographer can greatly help and I am here to guide you along the way. I think it is also important to note that when you hire a photographer and are wanting 2, it’s important to note that we will work as a team so I always recommend having your photographer pick who they will be working with so things run smoothly!