Whether you need a second photographer at your wedding depends on your specific needs and budget. For example, if you have a large wedding or want to capture all the special moments of your big day, having a second photographer may be a good option. However, you may not need a second photographer if you have a smaller wedding or a more intimate ceremony.
Deciding whether or not you need a second photographer can be a difficult thing if you don’t have much experience with wedding photography. I completely understand that most of my couples haven’t photographed 90+ weddings as I have. So more than likely, you’ll be leaning on your photographer to guide you down the right path.
Some of the key things that I like to know when determining whether you need a second photographer for your wedding day are:
1. Will you both be getting ready at the same location?
Having multiple getting-ready locations means I will need more time to travel or another photographer to ensure every getting-ready moment is captured. One photographer will be in one location, while the other photographer will be in the other location.
2. Are you doing a first look or a grand reveal?
Having two photographers for this moment is critical for getting both reactions simultaneously. One photographer can capture a grand reveal, but it is better with two. If you’re not doing a grand reveal, you’ll want that moment when your partner sees you walking down the aisle to be captured. Again, having two photographers makes sure that every angle is captured. For this particular wedding, this couple didn’t do a first look. So capturing all the emotions and angles of her walking down the aisle and his reaction was very important to them. Having a second photographer there made sure we covered all the angles and didn’t miss a moment.
3. How many will be in your wedding party, and how many guests?
If you have a more extensive guest list (50+ guests) or a large wedding party, having two photographers will ensure every moment is captured and no candid moment goes uncaptured.
One photographer would be sufficient for a more intimate guest list (50 and under guests) and a small wedding party.
4. Are you doing a cocktail hour?
I love to take this time for portraits of the couple and a grand reveal of the reception you have spent so long putting together with your planner. During this time, the second photographer can be at the cocktail hour, capturing all of your friends and family’s candid and group photos.
5. How important are candid moments of family and guests?
I am only one person and can only be in one spot at one time. However, if candid shots of your guests are important and you’re having a large wedding or need your photographer to be in two spots at once, a second photographer is a must-have.
If you decide on a second photographer, so no moments will go missed, great! Here are a few befits of having a second photographer on your wedding day.
1. A second photographer can capture a different angle of the ceremony.
2. Having a second photographer allows me to focus on you, the couple, while the second photographer captures details of the wedding and candids of friends and family.
3. Having a second photographer creates more opportunities for creative shots.
4. More images!
With a second photographer, you’ll end up with more images. Period. It means that one photographer can capture portraits while the other photographer is back at the reception, capturing your favorite aunt and uncle rip up the dance floor. As the main photographer, I can only be in one place at a time, and having that second person ensures that once-in-a-lifetime moments will be captured from different angles.
If you want to chat more about booking your wedding, inquire here!
