Do You Really Need a Second Photographer for Your Wedding?
- Shawn Eastman
- Jan 20
- 8 min read
Updated: Feb 24
When planning your wedding, you may have stumbled across packages offering a second photographer as part of the deal. Naturally, this might make you wonder: Do you really need a second photographer for your wedding?
As someone who has photographed countless weddings as a solo professional wedding photographer, I can confidently say that while a second shooter can be beneficial in some cases, it’s far from essential for most couples.
This article will break down the advantages and drawbacks of having a second photographer, helping you decide if it’s something you need or just an added luxury - so, consider this a balanced view on second shooters at a wedding from a seasoned wedding photographer offering all you need to know about second photographers.
Table of Contents
The Role of a Second Photographer
A second photographer is exactly what the name suggests: an additional professional capturing your wedding day alongside the primary photographer. The idea is that they’ll provide extra coverage and offer another perspective.
For example, while the main photographer is focused on the couple’s first kiss, the second photographer might be capturing the reactions of family and friends.
But here’s the thing: A skilled solo photographer can often achieve the same storytelling coverage with careful planning and expertise.
In my experience, the true benefits of a second photographer at a wedding only come to the fore when it's a large wedding at a sizable venue with a high number of guests (say, 200+) or when the couple would like two things covered at once - such as extensive coverage of both the bride and the groom getting ready at different locations.
The Benefits of a Second Photographer
While not necessary, there are some distinct advantages to having two photographers:
More Angles, More Coverage
With two photographers, you get different perspectives of key moments. For instance, during the ceremony, one photographer can focus on you walking down the aisle while the other captures your partner’s reaction. Similarly, during the reception, one might cover the dance floor while the other snaps candid shots of guests mingling.
Simultaneous Coverage
A second photographer can cover moments happening in two places at once.
This is particularly useful for:
Morning preparations: If the couple is getting ready in separate locations, a second shooter ensures both sides of the story are covered.
Large guest lists: At weddings with 200+ guests, two photographers can help ensure no one is missed.
Backup Plan
While rare, equipment malfunctions or unforeseen circumstances can occur. Having a second photographer offers an added layer of security, ensuring your special day is still fully captured.
Creative Shots
Two photographers can experiment with different angles, compositions, and techniques, offering a broader variety of images.
The Drawbacks of Hiring a Second Photographer
Despite these benefits, hiring a second photographer isn’t always necessary and comes with its own considerations:
Added Expense
Adding a second photographer to your package will increase costs. If you’re working with a tight wedding budget, this may not be the most cost-effective choice.
Potential Overlap
In many cases, a highly experienced solo photographer can capture everything you need. The overlap in coverage provided by a second shooter may not always justify the extra expense.
More People, More Distraction
Having two photographers moving around can sometimes feel intrusive, especially during intimate moments. A single photographer often works more discreetly.
Why One Photographer Can Be Enough
If you’re worried that opting for a single photographer might limit your wedding photos, let me reassure you: a professional photographer knows how to plan, adapt, and make the most of every moment.
Here’s why one photographer is often sufficient:
Experience and Expertise
Solo photographers often have years of experience capturing weddings. We know how to anticipate key moments and work efficiently to document all the important details.
Strategic Planning
Great photographers don’t leave things to chance. Before your wedding, we’ll discuss your timeline, prioritise must-have shots, and plan how to cover every aspect of your day.
Candid Moments
With a focus on storytelling, a solo photographer can capture beautiful, candid moments that showcase the emotions of your day. You’ll still get those cherished reactions, laughs, and tears.
When to Consider a Second Photographer
While a single photographer can handle most weddings, there are certain scenarios where a second shooter might be worth considering:
Large Weddings: If you’re hosting 200+ guests, two photographers can ensure more comprehensive coverage.
Complex Venues: Venues with multiple floors, expansive grounds, or tricky logistics may benefit from having two photographers.
Elaborate Timelines: If your schedule is packed with simultaneous events, a second shooter can provide additional coverage.
Personal Preference: If you love the idea of having every angle captured or extensive coverage of two places at once, and the budget allows, a second photographer could be a great option.
How to Decide if You Need a Second Photographer
When deciding whether to hire a second photographer, consider these factors:
Your Guest List: For smaller, intimate weddings, one photographer is usually enough.
Your Budget: If you’re weighing costs, think about whether the benefits of a second photographer outweigh other priorities.
Your Style Preferences: If you’re drawn to more creative, multi-angle shots, a second shooter might align with your vision.
My Professional Perspective
As someone who predominantly works solo, I can confidently say that one photographer is often more than enough to capture the magic of your wedding day. With careful planning and a focus on storytelling, I ensure every important moment is documented beautifully.
That said, if you’re leaning toward having a second photographer, I’m happy to discuss the option and help you decide what’s best for you. Ultimately, the most important thing is to choose a professional wedding photographer you trust and feel comfortable with.
Whether it’s one photographer or two, your wedding day will be captured with care and creativity - leaving you with stunning memories to cherish forever.
FAQs About Hiring a Second Photographer at a Wedding
What does a second photographer do at a wedding?
A second photographer works alongside the main photographer to provide additional coverage. This includes capturing different angles, focusing on candid moments, and covering simultaneous events, like the bride and groom getting ready in separate locations. They’re essentially the second set of eyes to ensure no moment is missed.
Do I really need a second photographer for my wedding?
Not necessarily. A single, experienced photographer can cover your wedding beautifully. However, if you have a large guest list, multiple locations, or want lots of candid shots and angles, a second photographer can enhance your overall coverage.
What are the benefits of having a second photographer?
The main advantages include:
More angles and perspectives.
Coverage of simultaneous moments.
Extra candid shots of guests.
Back-up in case of technical issues or sudden illness with the main photographer.
Is hiring a second photographer expensive?
Adding a second photographer typically increases the cost of your package. The exact amount depends on the photographer’s experience, duration of coverage, and your wedding location. While it’s an additional expense, it may be worth it for comprehensive coverage if that's important to you.
Occasionally, a photographer may have a novice photographer who second shoots their weddings as a way for them to gain hands-on work experience - your main photographer may ask if you'd be interested in having the novice second shooter also attend and shoot the wedding, usually at a very low additional cost.
Does a second photographer improve the quality of wedding photos?
Not necessarily. Quality depends on the skill and style of the photographers. A second shooter adds variety and coverage but doesn’t inherently make the photos better unless both photographers are highly skilled.
Can one photographer handle a large wedding?
Yes, many skilled photographers can manage large weddings by prioritising key moments and working efficiently. Over the years, I have comfortably photographed very large weddings with several hundred guests by myself. However, for these very large events (150-200+ guests), a second photographer can make the coverage more thorough.
What’s the difference between a second photographer and an assistant?
A second photographer captures additional images, working independently to complement the main photographer. An assistant typically helps with equipment, lighting, and logistics rather than taking photos.
What moments can a second photographer capture?
They can photograph moments such as:
Groom’s preparations while the main photographer captures the bride’s.
Guest reactions during emotional moments.
Wide shots of the venue during key events.
Additional fun and candid moments among guests.
Will the second photographer’s style match the main photographer’s?
Most professionals choose second photographers whose style aligns with theirs. This ensures a cohesive look in your final gallery.
Can I choose who the second photographer is?
Typically, the main photographer selects their second shooter. This is someone they trust and have worked with before to ensure seamless teamwork and a consistent style.
Do smaller weddings need a second photographer?
For intimate weddings, a single photographer is often sufficient. A second photographer might be unnecessary unless you want extensive candid moments or coverage of multiple locations.
How do second photographers coordinate with the main photographer?
They follow the main photographer’s lead and plan. The duo communicates effectively to cover different aspects of the wedding without overlapping.
Is it better to hire a photography team or one experienced photographer?
It depends on your needs. Teams provide more coverage, while a solo photographer offers a more personal touch. Both options can deliver excellent results.
Are second photographers less experienced?
Not always. Many are experienced photographers who prefer second-shooting, though some are learning their trade and building their wedding photography portfolio so in those instances they will naturally be less experienced. Main photographers usually ensure their second shooter is skilled enough to reflect any additional charges that may be added for the second photographer.
How can I decide if I need a second photographer?
Consider factors like guest count, multiple locations, timeline complexity, and your desire for an extensive range of varied shots. If these are significant for you, a second shooter may be beneficial.
Do second photographers bring their own equipment?
Yes, second photographers bring their own gear, including cameras, lenses, and flashes, ensuring quality and reliability.
Do I meet the second photographer before the wedding?
Not usually, no - not unless you booked the duo as a package from the outset. However, if it’s important to you, discuss this with your main photographer to see if arrangements can be made for you to meet the second shooter beforehand.
Can a second photographer handle group shots?
Yes, in most cases, they will be very capable of assisting with group shots, capturing alternate angles or candid moments while the main photographer sets up formal poses. The only time this may not be the case is if the second photographer is still early in their journey of learning and mastering wedding photography.
Is a second photographer useful for elopements?
For intimate elopements, a second photographer is rarely necessary unless the couple would specifically like extensive coverage.
Does having two photographers slow down the process?
It shouldn't! In fact, on the contrary, it often speeds things up. While one photographer focuses on key moments, the other captures candid shots, ensuring every moment is covered efficiently.
