3 Reasons You Need a 2nd Photographer

1. Action & Reaction  

When you ask someone, “What are the most important photos of a wedding?” most people tell you that it's the kiss. They say it's the first dance, the first look or the portraits of the bride and groom. These statements are completely valid, but any experienced photographer knows that there is much more complexity to a wedding day. A photographer waiting for the first kiss may not notice the reaction of brides parents holding hands, with eyes full of joyful tears. That moment can mean more then anything to the bride when their time has come and she can still cherish that memory long after. A second shooter’s job is to be focused on what the primary photographer may be too busy to see. The primary photographer is often held liable to getting quality photos of moments similar to what most people say are important. They set their shot and then wait to get an iconic photo of a moment that we all knew was going to happen. While that is happening, a good second shooter is snapping all those reactions to the couples loved ones, and waiting for that same moment.

2. Physical Limitations & Efficiency

There are plenty of logistical reasons for having a second photographer. Often, couples get ready in different locations and have their prep roughly around the same time. It’s not always realistic to have one photographer running back and fourth, with the expectation of catching “a few good moments”. You can never really force that timing. Budget is sometimes the concern and that is completely understandable, which is why we even offer using a single photographer. Efficiency is key to a wedding timeline moving smoothly. Having a second shooter means groomsmen and bridesmaid photos can be shot at the same time. One photographer can capture the carefully selected décor before it's ransacked by hungry wedding guests, while the other photographer snaps family portraits.

3. Backup & Insurance

Should things ‘go south' and your bestest* boy (your dog) play tug with the photographers camera straps, or the ring bearer’s wagon sneaks into the isle just a little too far and ultimately table-top your lead shooter rendering him unconscious for the first kiss. We then have a back up. The second shooter (who’s been waiting his whole life for this moment) is there heroically, snapping the first kiss. The moment every second dreams of, the moment they become immortalized as the go to and a strong contender employee of the month.

Recap.

A single good photographer can more often then not get the job done and often well but they in no way can be perfect. A good team ensures we get the best coverage possible.

The good news is adding a 2nd photographer is not as expensive as it sounds.