Twice the Coverage, Twice the Memories: Why a Second Shooter is Worth It
Understanding the Role of a Second Photographer at Your Wedding
When you’re planning your wedding, one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing your photographer. But there’s one thing that many couples don’t think about right away: Should you hire a second photographer? Having an extra shooter on your wedding day might seem like an unnecessary splurge at first, but it can really take your wedding photos to the next level. In this post, we’re diving into what a second photographer does and why you might want to consider adding one to your big day.
What is a Secondary Photographer?
A second photographer is simply another professional photographer who works alongside your main photographer. They aren’t just there to assist—they’re actively capturing moments from different angles and getting shots that your main photographer might miss. The primary photographer may be busy capturing family shots, capturing the bridal party or working with the newly married couple. During this time, guests are in the background making the most of the free food and alcohol! The secondary photographer is there to capture these candid moments, the in-between laughs, capture details of the ceremony and reception before guests move in and explore different creative angles.
Key Benefits of Having a Secondary Photographer
1. You get more coverage from different angles.
Weddings can be fast-paced, with multiple events occurring simultaneously. While the primary photographer is focused on one moment, such as the bride walking down the aisle, the second photographer can capture other important moments from a different angle. For example:
The groom’s expression during the bride's entrance.
The reactions of guests during the ceremony.
Candid moments during cocktail hour while the primary photographer is focused on the bridal party pictorial.
This expanded coverage allows you to have a wider variety of images, ensuring no important moment is missed.
2. Different Perspectives & Creative Shots
Your second photographer doesn’t just take the same shots from a different angle—they add their own creativity. While the main photographer might be focused on posed portraits liked family shots or the bridal party pictorial and other key moments, the second shooter can capture things like:
Close-ups of details like your rings, flowers, and decor.
Wide shots of the venue to show off the setting.
Set-up shots of the ceremony or reception before guests arrive.
Candid moments of your guests enjoying the day.
This way, you get a fuller story of your wedding day, with different vibes and angles.
4. Getting ready photos for both partners.
If your wedding day preparations are split between various locations, it may be difficult for the main photographer to travel between locations, or they may not be able to spend as long at each place. Having a secondary photographer means the morning prep flows smoothly, and there’s enough time to take it easy, get those great shots and not need to rush to take off to the next place.
3. Less Stress for Everyone.
Having a second photographer means that you’re not relying on one person to get every shot. The day can get hectic, and there’s a lot going on. While the main photographer is working on family photos, the second photographer can grab shots of your bridal party mingling or guests having fun. It helps keep things flowing smoothly without missing anything important. The main photographer might be preoccupied taking photos of the couple and not have a chance to capture the ceremony and reception set-ups, so the secondary photographer will have that covered. In case anything unexpected happens with the main photographer, the second photographer will be there and ready to keep the show running!
When Should You Consider a Second Photographer?
While not every wedding needs a second photographer, certain circumstances make it a more worthwhile investment. Consider adding a second photographer if:
You have a large wedding: With many guests and locations, having a second photographer ensures no moments are missed.
You’re having a long wedding day: If your wedding day stretches for several hours or spans multiple events (e.g.,groom prep, bride prep ceremony, family shots, pictorial, cocktail hour, reception), having a second photographer will give both photographers time to rest and stay sharp.
You want more variety in your photos: If you’re seeking a wide range of angles, perspectives, and creative shots, a second photographer can provide those.
You’re planning a destination wedding: If your wedding takes place in a unique or distant location, a second photographer can help document your wedding day in ways that a solo photographer might not be able to.
To Sum It Up
Having a second photographer at your wedding can add a lot of value. Not only does it give you more coverage, but it also means more creative shots, less stress, and a greater variety of images to remember your day. Whether you’re having a big wedding or just want to make sure every moment is captured, a second photographer can make a big difference.
So if you're on the fence, consider chatting with your photographer about how a second shooter can fit into your plans. It might just be the decision that makes your wedding photos even more amazing!
If you’re booking with Hummingbird and you’re on the fence about hiring a secondary photographer, have a chat with us about whether it may be beneficial to you!
