Should I Hire A Second Shooter For My Wedding?
One of the most common questions I get during consultation calls with couples is: Should we hire a second shooter for our wedding?
If you’re in the process of booking your wedding photographer, you’ve probably wondered about this yourself. A second shooter is an additional photographer who works alongside your primary photographer to help capture more moments and different angles throughout the day.
Do You Need a Second Shooter?
First things first: hiring a second shooter is not a requirement. I personally have photographed countless weddings solo, and a professional wedding photographer should be fully capable and confident capturing an entire wedding day on their own. That said, if your budget allows, there are several benefits to having a second photographer on your wedding day.
When a Second Shooter Makes a Big Difference
1. Getting Ready Photos
A second shooter is especially helpful during the getting ready portion of the day. Typically, you and your partner will be in separate locations or rooms while getting dressed and ready. Having two photographers means each person can have their own dedicated coverage—so no one misses a moment, and your photographer won’t need to rush between locations.
2. Guest Coverage During Cocktail Hour
If candid photos of your guests are important to you, a second shooter can be incredibly valuable. Often, cocktail hour overlaps with the couple’s portrait session. While your main photographer is capturing portraits of you two, your second shooter can focus on mingling guests, capturing candid moments, and the overall vibe of cocktail hour.
3. Multiple Angles and Perspectives
Want to see your ceremony or first look from more than one angle? A second shooter can provide those additional perspectives that add depth and variety to your final gallery. While one photographer is focused on you, the other can capture guest reactions, wide-angle shots, or detail shots—ensuring no moment is missed.
4. A Bigger Gallery
With two photographers capturing your day, you’ll naturally receive more images. This can be a big bonus if you want a more comprehensive visual story of your wedding.
So, Should You Hire a Second Shooter?
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your priorities and budget. If you value complete coverage of both partners getting ready, lots of guest photos, and having multiple angles of key moments, hiring a second shooter is a great investment in your wedding photography.
Talk to your photographer about whether they offer the option to add a second shooter and how it could elevate your photo experience. It’s your day—and having the right team in place to document it can make all the difference.
Ready to Chat About Your Wedding Photography Needs?
Whether you’re considering a second shooter or just starting to explore your options, I’d love to hear more about your vision for the day. If you’re looking for a wedding photographer in Vancouver who offers personalized support and a stress-free experience, get in touch here.
Let’s make sure your wedding is captured just the way you’ve imagined it.
