You're getting married, the photographer is booked or maybe you're researching photographers, and you see the option to add a second photographer... what does that mean? More importantly, do you even need one?
What actually is a second photographer?
A second photographer, also known as a second shooter, works alongside the main photographer to capture your day from different angles and viewpoints. They are not merely assistants; Although they will be on hand to help the main photographer on the day, their primary role is photography. After the wedding, they provide their memory cards to the main photographer, who then processes and edits the images to ensure a consistent final gallery.
I personally use professional photographers who run their own businesses as second photographers for my couples' weddings. This means they know exactly how a wedding day works and have experience photographing in various venues, lighting conditions and situations. I am part of a network of amazing wedding photographers I use as second photographers for couples that book them. I know and trust they will do a wonderful job. They all have a similar approach to me - documentary storytelling. I also second shoot for them when I can - it's a lovely community to be a part of.
So now you know what a second photographer is, but what do they actually do on the day? And do you really need one?
I'll start by saying that most professional 'solo' photographers will be more than capable of photographing the full wedding day by themselves. I have shot hundreds of weddings as the solo main photographer, so I have lots of experience photographing as much of the wedding story as possible. But there are some advantages to having a second photographer on the day and here are five reasons to consider adding one to your package.
1. Cverage of both mornings
Unfortunately, your main photographer can't be in two places at once. Since you and your partner will likely be getting ready in different locations, the main photographer can only cover one of your "getting ready stories." This means crucial moments from the other side of the preparations might be missed.
A second photographer solves this issue by documenting the other part of the morning preparations. You'll both receive comprehensive coverage, including detail shots, getting into your outfits, and those final finishing touches. Couples who have opted for a second photographer often appreciate being able to see what each other experienced before the ceremony. If both of your morning preparations are important to capture, adding a second photographer ensures nothing is missed!
2. A different angle of the ceremony!
Your main photographer will likely be positioned at the front during the ceremony, which provides an ideal view of the main action. However, having a second photographer adds valuable perspective. The second photographer can stand at the back and capture photos from a different angle. As you walk down the aisle, they can capture reactions and details that the main photographer might miss from the front. Plus you'll get to see your ceremony from the same viewpoint as your guests!
Another benefit is that if you're getting ready at a different location from your ceremony, the main photographer may not have time to capture the ceremony room empty before guests arrive. A second photographer can handle this task and also capture candid moments of guests arriving and greeting each other, adding even more moments to your wedding story.
3. Extra candids of guests during your group photos!
During the drinks reception, you'll likely be with your main photographer for group photos and couple portraits. Meanwhile, guests not involved in these photos will be chatting and mingling. Your main photographer will be focused on the group shots, meaning it's not possible for them to get candids during this time. This doesn't mean to say your main photographer won't get a chance to take candid photos later in the day. However, having a second photographer ensures even more natural guest photos. They can dedicate themselves to capturing candid moments while the group photos are underway, ensuring that no special moment goes unnoticed during this busy time!
4. A different angle of your wedding reception!
Just like during your ceremony, key moments of your wedding reception (such as speeches, cake cutting, and the first dance) benefit from a second photographer's unique angle. While your main photographer is likely focused on capturing the top table and the reactions of the couple and main VIP guests during speeches, a second photographer can capture a wider range of guest reactions and provide an alternative viewpoint of the top table. This ensures a varied documentation of these special reception moments!
5. You get more photos of your day and extra creativity!
Ok, so it might sound obvious, but you get even more beautiful memories captured of your day! Adding a second photographer not only results in more photos but also offers a broader perspective of your wedding day. With two photographers, you'll have an abundance of beautiful memories to cherish and revisit for years to come.
Having a second photographer also introduces an additional creative eye. They often have the freedom to explore creative angles and experiment with different styles, providing you with a diverse and artistic collection of images that complement the main photographers.
