I started using second shooters back in 2015 and it completely changed the way I work. I suddenly had a lot more freedom on a wedding day to be creative and I noticed my standard of photography improved. Not only that but the galleries of images I was delivering felt a lot more comprehensive. I don’t always work with additional photographers but, for larger weddings, it definitely makes a difference to what can be covered on the day. Here is a list of reasons why you should book a second shooter:
PRE-WEDDING PREPARATIONS
On the big day, couples often choose to get ready in different places due to the age old tradition of not seeing your partner on the morning of your wedding. This can make it difficult to document both parts of the day. Having a second shooter there means I can be with the bride whilst someone else is documenting the groom getting ready. As bridal prep can occasionally run over schedule, it also takes the pressure off getting pictures before the ceremony of guests arriving.
ANGLES
One of the main reasons you should book a second shooter is to document the most important parts of the day from different angles. During the ceremony, it’s impossible for me to be at the front photographing the bride walking down the aisle whilst being at the back capturing the groom’s reaction. In some situations, there are ways of getting both of these shots by standing in one place but it’s not always an option. Having a second shooter there means you get better coverage of these must have moments.
VARIETY
All the photographers I use understand the way I work on a wedding day but they also have their own unique style. We don’t all photograph the same moment in the same way which means you get a totally different perspective throughout the day. For example, during confetti I usually like to get a lot of guests in the frame to get context and tell the story in a more effective way. My second shooters know this so they often zoom in close emphasise the couple’s reactions or get down low to capture a different angle.
CANDIDS
I usually choose to get any couple and group portraits during the drink’s reception. Having another photographer around means someone is there to capture those natural moments between friends and family that might otherwise be missed.
CREATIVE PORTRAITS
I often use different lighting techniques in my portraits, especially in the evening. Having someone there to setup flashes and hold video lights makes the process much quicker and frees me up to be more creative on the day.
BACK UP
Although I have several backups in place it’s always nice to have one more! Having two people attend your wedding provides an additional backup in case of an emergency.
REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD BOOK A SECOND SHOOTER
To find out more about adding a second shooter to your package, just get in touch to receive a copy of my brochure.