FAQ: Do I need a second shooter?

This is a question I hear frequently! About 80% of the time I am the only photographer shooting (and all of the work on my website is my own and not from a second photographer). I typically return 400-600 photos to my clients as a single shooter from the average 6-7 hour wedding event. When a second shooter is added, they will contribute about another 50-100 images, not because they are shooting less but because most of what they capture can be somewhat redundant when we are both shooting the same action.

You WILL want a second photographer if:

Your venue has a second floor or balcony level view over the action happening below. This is truly a great second perspective! Examples: Kendall Plantation’s balcony above the dancefloor, St. Mary’s balcony above the congregation, Sunset Ranch Event’s balcony over the reception space.
You have a very large guest count and desire to have more photos of guests mingling during the cocktail hour. During the cocktail hour I will be doing your formal group photos and newlywed portraits. If you have a large guest count this is a nice visual record of who came.
You’d like to have the groomsmen getting ready time photographed (i.e. putting on ties, boutonnieres, cheers with beers etc), especially if they are getting ready at a separate location. Sometimes I can easily get these shots as a single shooter if there is a small number in your wedding party and the getting ready rooms are in closer proximity.

Considerations:

A second shooter is no guarantee that there will be a photo of your groom tearing up as you come down the aisle! Many times men who show emotion may have a completely different reaction when they are being watched in public – all eyes on you – two cameras on you. (Also spoiler alert- some of the most popular teary groom pics or jaw-dropped groom photos on pinterest were staged by actors… it’s true, sorry!)
Two paparazzi – not always better than one. For some, having one photo paparazzi around you all day during a sacred and emotional occasion is already alot to accomodate. If you are also having a videographer, consider if they will also be having an assistant… because that would be a total of 4 people in black with cameras buzzing around you all day! It can be overwhelming and crowded sometimes especially if your event is a more intimate size.

I hope this helps you decide if adding a second shooter fits you well!