Do you need a second photographer at my wedding, has to be one of the biggest questions I cover when helping a couple plan for their big day. It is a question that has many layers to it and it really depends on a few factors I would like to take some time to explore today. It’s Dave with Dave McIntosh Photographics, Baltimore wedding photography and videography and let’s look at what needs you might have for your special day to come.
Reasons for a Second Photographer
Here are a few of my favorite reasons to have a second shooter at the wedding! Since wedding planning is all about lists (am I right?) I’ll list the reasons first, and then break down a few in more detail.
- Get photos shot from different angles and with more variety. (wide / telephoto)
- 2 photographers are able to photograph both the bride and groom as they get ready at the same time.
- Allows two different areas to be covered at once if a venue is very large or spread out.
- Family formals take less time, getting couple to their cocktail hour or we can take some couples photos sooner.
- More reception candids. This is especially helpful if you have a reception of over 125-150 people.
- Main photographer has a backup.
- The second shooter covers the cocktail hour and reception while the primary photographer shoots couple portraits.
- The second shooter assists with difficult shots, holding lights, ladders and carrying extra gear.
- A second photographer adds creativity to your final gallery of images by bringing his/her own unique vision.
- Two photographers give you more photos than one photographer would.
Separate Locations
Two photographers allow for one to be with the bride before the wedding and the other to photograph the groom before the wedding. This allows them to get ready at the same time not one then the other. If the bride and groom are getting ready in two separate locations, it is a good idea to have a second shooter.
Move the Day Quicker
If you have a large wedding party, or large family, a second shooter really saves the day! Two photographers help speed up family portraits, allowing you to get to your reception sooner! During this part of the day, we work as a team. The first photographer takes the photos while the second photographer assists with rounding up family members for the next photo and keep track of which portraits have been shot and which ones remain. The second photographer also helps line up and pose large groups.
The second photographer provides another set of eyes to make sure everything in your family formals is perfect, helping me look for things like hair bands on the ladies’ wrists, removing sunglasses, making sure zippers are up and collars are down! That allows me to focus on composition, posing, and making sure all family members look their best!
Unique Perspective
One of my favorite reasons to have a second wedding photographer is because each photographer brings their own unique way of seeing things and you’ll get more variety in your images because of this. We photographers are the creative type, and we pride ourselves on seeing things a little differently than other people. We also see things differently from each other! I have several very talented second photographers who I love to work with, and I’m always inspired by some of the great shots they get during the day, too!
I choose second photographers whose style complements my own and we work together on a regular basis. Usually I try to get the “solid” shots while the second photographer is free to move about and get more creative photos. During the wedding ceremony we tend to split the room so we don’t need to move around as much. The result is more opportunities for photos you will love!
When to Hire One Photographer
- You’re planning an elopement or an intimate wedding in a small space. Photographers would just wind up getting in each other’s shots because the venue is so small.
- You have a tiny guest list and wedding party. I can round up the immediate family for your family formals on my own. But if you have 300 guests, 50 cousins and 20 bridesmaids, I will need help. If you have 75 or fewer guests most likely 1 photographer is enough.
- Everything is happening in one location. The bride and groom are getting ready on the same site as the ceremony and reception. Vineyards, plantation houses, beaches often fall into this category.
Several weddings you see on my blog were shot solely by me. I wear two cameras and they record on two camera cards each, so I have a backup on me for all the key moments.
Can I Afford a Second Photographer?
There’s one reason I didn’t list here—budget. I price my second photographer to make it cost effective since it helps both you and me. But the second shooter is not free so I understand if it is not within your budget. Prioritizing your photography in your budget is something you won’t regret! According to The Knot’s survey, one of the top 5 regrets couples had about their budget was not spending enough on their photography! In this survey, many wished they’d spent less on their invitations and dress so they’d have had more to spend on their photography. Remember, your photography and videography are among the only things you’ll have after the wedding to remember the day!
Finally, if you’re still on the fence, I’m happy to hop on a call with you! You can share your vision and together we can come up with the best recommendation for your dream wedding!
About Dave McIntosh Photographics
My talent helps you remember each moment fondly. This means not only gorgeous photos and video but also a positive experience. When you look at the photos, you recall how you felt. Capturing special moments is more than picking up a camera. Sometimes is it creating a safe space for you to relax and be yourself. Sometimes it is creating a moment. Once you relax and be in the moment, the magic begins. I will guide you to create memories perfectly suited to you based on over 10 years of photographing weddings.