Not sure if you should hire a second shooter for your wedding? This blog’s got you covered. I’ll break down what a second shooter does on a wedding day, how they’ll help make your day and photos run seamlessly, and help you figure out if hiring one is the right decision for your celebration.
What is a Second Shooter?
A second shooter is an experienced photographer that is hired by your main photographer to assist them on your wedding day. A second shooter also uses top-notch gear so that their photos will seamlessly intertwine for your main photographers. Although a second shooter is not essential, here are a few examples of moments the second shooter would prioritize on your wedding day — which is why I think hiring one is 100% worth it:
- The second shooter’s main focus is to capture an entirely new perspective of your wedding day. For example: If the main photographer is capturing your portraits from straight ahead, the second shooter may take a step back and capture the same shot from a wider angle. Or add a creative twist that would be impossible with only one photographer.
- Catching moments your main photographer might not see
- Documenting the emotions of your guests
- Focusing on creative shots and details
Pros of Having Two Photographers on Your Wedding Day
The biggest advantage of having a second photographer is having a wider variety of shots, and just more photos in general from your wedding day. Imagine having an additional 200+ photos to cherish from your wedding! The second shooter helps to never miss a moment, and to capture that moment with different angles of documentation. For example, while I am getting one angle of your walking down the ceremony aisle the second shooter can focus on capturing your partner’s reaction.
You Will Definitely Need a Second Shooter if…
- Having Lots of Candid Photos of Guests is Important to You
- Hiring a second shooter is awesome because, let’s say, while I’m busy capturing you and your partner during the ceremony, my second shooter will focus on capturing your guests’ reactions and energy. Especially if you have lots of special people at your wedding that you definitely want documented (for ex. grandparents). Having a second shooter makes sure all those in between moments with the people you hold closest doesn’t go missed.
- You Prioritize Documentary Style Photography
- Documentary-style photography is all about authentic story-telling. And how do you tell a story well? By capturing the in-between moments and details, the raw emotion of the day, the energy, and all the different perspectives a wedding day has. Because of this, a second shooter’s main role is all about finding unique angles that’ll tell your wedding-day story in a well-rounded, cohesive way.
- You’re Planning on Getting Ready in Different Locations
- Having a second photographer in this scenario is a game-changer for several reasons! Hiring a second photographer means we can capture more meaningful moments during the prep for each person. Plus, you won’t need to book extra time for travel if your partner is getting ready in a different Airbnb, hotel, or venue.
Still Unsure if a Second Shoot is Right for You, Just Ask!
All in all, I was thrilled to be a second photographer at this gorgeous wedding in Fryburg, Maine. Having experience as both the main photographer and a second shooter, I fully understand how these roles complement each other and the importance of having a second photographer at your wedding. Your wedding day is once in a lifetime — make sure all the special moments are captured.
Boston Film-Inspired + Documentary Style Photographer | Maddy Bethune Photo
Hey! I’m Maddy, a film-inspired + documentary style photographer based in Boston. I love the unconventional and encourage couples to do something that feels like them when it comes to their photo session! I’m inspired by film photography, vibrant color palettes, and couples who don’t take life too seriously. I’m here to tell YOUR story just as you remember it (no fake smiles and laughs here), and to transform your most precious moments into tangible art that’ll hang on your walls for years to come. Ready to create together?? Get in touch with me here!
