Do I need a second photographer at my wedding?

Are you planning your wedding and wondering if you need a second photographer?

This is one of the biggest questions asked when a couple is choosing their package.

This may be an unpopular opinion, but usually, I’m going to say no, it isn’t necessary, BUT it can be an excellent addition!

I have shot multiple weddings, and It’s nice to have a second shooter, but I am more than comfortable working on my own and have only found it necessary a handful of times!

Of course, there are a few circumstances where I will tell you, yes, you need a second photographer, but most of the time, it’s just a nice add-on!

Let’s start with when I think it’s necessary to add a second photographer:

You and your fiance are getting ready at two separate locations.

If the two of you are not getting ready at the same location, usually one is at the venue and the other at a hotel, Airbnb, or home. In this situation, I highly recommend a second photographer who can hang out with the guys while I work with the bride and her girls!

When you are having a larger wedding with a higher guest count 120+
You have planned this big beautiful wedding, invited all your family and friends, and the guest count is above 120 ish, you will want to consider a second photographer.
You have meticulously planned events and want every moment, big and small, captured. This is a time when I would also highly recommend a second photographer!

Now let’s jump into when it’s nice to have a second photographer, but it isn’t necessary…

More Coverage

Disclaimer:

It’s important to note that more coverage doesn’t necessarily mean more images.

Your wedding will pass in the blink of an eye! I cannot stress this enough. This is a day you spend months and months planning, then you blink, and it’s gone.

Instead of quantity, think quality. All the different moments and memories two photographers can capture. Especially if you have a long day and/or a tight timeline and multiple things are happening simultaneously!

Some events are planned and should be photographed
Toasts, Cake cutting, and first dances.
But what about those unplanned moments? Mom is crying as you dance with your dad. You looking on at your new husband as he dances with his mom. You have toasts, and your Husband reaches under the table for your hand, giving it a little squeeze.
Those are moments you don’t want to miss, so in this case, I’ll say two photographers are better than one when it comes to coverage!

Different Perspectives/Angles

Weddings, like movies, are best shot with more than one camera and from different angles.
This allows the photographer to capture all those in-between moments and emotions!
Which, in turn, lets the viewer in on the whole story!

Time Constraints
A second photographer allows for flexibility in the timeline, which allows for a less hectic shooting schedule.
The second photographer can gather all the family for the formal photos and get everyone lined up so that they run smoothly!
I also like to get my second photographer to knock out groomsmen’s photos after the guys get ready. This saves time later on!

One photographer may head to the reception after the ceremony to start on detailed coverage. The other photographer may stay at the ceremony to finish formal family photos!

With good timeline planning, this could be done with one photographer, but if you are short on time and ready to get to partying, a second photographer does come in handy!

Something to consider when deciding if you need a second photographer

A second photographer may not be ideal if you have a smaller wedding.
Two photographers working at intimate weddings or smaller venues may lead to a photography team being on top of each other.
You likely won’t need two photographers if you have a smaller guest count (up to 75 guests).
This can lead to many repetitive shots and not enough workspace!

Whether you decide on one or two photographers, I will capture a complete intricate storyline of your wedding day. Not having a second photographer doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the quality. If you’re still unsure about it, let me know. We’ll discuss it!

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