Second Photographers- Do you need one?
There are many reasons of why having a second photographers at weddings are beneficial and whether you’re a bride/groom or a photographer you may be questioning if you need to hire one. Keep reading as I walk you through a typical wedding day and help guide you to why a second photographer may be beneficial for you!
Over the last several years photographing weddings I have worked close to 75-100 weddings as a lead photographer and as a second. In fact, I started out in the wedding industry as a second photographer for one of my now good friends Samantha Kaye. I was looking to get my feet wet in the industry and Samantha being a photographer I looked up to I of course followed her on Instagram. One day, I saw her share a story about looking for a second photographer who was just starting out and willing to learn *que my very quick reply to her story lol*. I soon after met up with Samantha in person and she hired me! That’s where my wedding photography journey began and by the end of 2022 I will have photographed 55 weddings as a lead photographer!
Now, into the need for a second photographer. These tips are for my couples and for photographers so keep reading! As a lead photographer I LOVE having a second photographer at weddings. Ultimately, they make the day go by so much smoother than when I’m by myself. They are a second set of eyes and camera gear, ready to snap away as and they essentially allow me to be in two places at once. When I know that a couple wants to have “getting ready” photos of both parties I know I need an assistant with me. This allows me to be with one group while my second is with the other group at the same time so no fun moment is missed.
Second photographers also allow for more photos! Now, just because there may be a second shooter at your wedding doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get more photos in the terms of number count, but more angles and more moments captured. They’re my second set of eyes ready to capture every moment I may miss while taking group photos or sunset romantics for example. Also, more angles. I love seeing the angles they capture of a moment I also got but in a more traditional way.
Having a second shooter assist you as a photographer or letting your photographer know you’d like to have one at your wedding truly is such a good use of money! I will always include a second shooter in my wedding packages as I believe they bring so much additional value to your wedding day!
Finally, here are a few questions to ask yourself if you’re wondering if you need a second photographer (for couples and photographers):
- Are there multiple locations being used throughout the day?
- Does the couple want “getting ready” photos of both parties at the same time?
- Do I have a smaller budget, but still want as many moments as possible?
- Do I want “more”? more photos, angles, candid’s, etc…
