Do I need a Second Photographer at my Wedding?

The one question and one decision you will ultimately have to make while planning your wedding is whether or not you should have a second photographer at your wedding. There are many magazine articles and blogs that say that you must have one, while there are many that say you don't need one. Is having an additional photographer really that important? How do you know if you really need one and what is best for you?

Let's start by explaining what a second photographer does. First and foremost as your main photographer, I can not be in two places at the same time. Typically a main photographer will start wherever the bride and her bridal party will be getting ready, whether that is the home, a hotel or the wedding venue, while the second photographer will start with the groom with his groomsmen. The getting ready photos are some of the most important photos of the wedding day. Having some images of the groom getting ready as well is a great addition in your wedding album. These images tell the story of what it was like to start the day with the guys as well as the girls capturing them getting ready, their details, and most importantly their last few moments as a single man and woman.

After the getting ready part of the wedding day is done, the second photographer's objective is to capture candid photos of the wedding day. I usually want my second photographer looking for emotions and capturing emotions that I would have never been able to capture as I am concentrating on the ''bread and butter'' photos such as family and bridal party groups. While I am capturing the bride and groom with their parents, the flower girl might be behind me picking up her petals and placing them back in her basket, or the ring bearer may be pouting off to the side. I may never see it, but my second photographer is right there to capture these moments. The second photographer is also able to provide a unique perspective in many other ways. This can by shooting from a different angle than from what I am shooting, or by using another lens.

With a second photographer, nearly every important moment is captured from two different perspectives, eliminating the chance that something will be missed. The second photographer can also serve as an incredible backup. I had a situation where my flash failed during the First Kiss. This is obviously a moment that can not be recaptured. Thankfully my second photographer was right there to ensure the moment was not missed.

As your wedding photographer I will absolutely get some candid photos, but that is only when there are no “must have” photos to take. So if you feel these images are important to you, then you might want to think about having a second photographer. If not, then that’s okay too! This is your wedding, your day and your decision.

If you have any questions, I will be more than happy to talk to you about your wedding day. Every wedding is different. It will be great to hear the timeline of your day in order to help you choose a collection that will get the coverage you need.