So many times when I meet with a newly engaged couple, the question comes up: “Should I have a second shooter at my wedding?”
A lot of times, couples feel that they can answer the question by simply looking at their guest list. And it’s true, having a larger guest list makes a second shooter even more valuable. But, regardless of the number of guests you’re expecting, having a second shooter can help provide even more opportunities for documented moments and alternative angles. As good as I am (and I do shoot weddings on my own all the time), the truth is I can’t be at two places at once. Having a second shooter can further ensure all moments are covered. The most common example is that while the both of you are getting ready, I can be with one of you, while my assistant is with the other. Additionally, if I’m joining the wedding party for portraits after the ceremony, my assistant can head to the reception to cover cocktail hour and capture all the details in the room before the reception begins.
Another great benefit of having a second shooter is all the alternative angles they can capture. At the ceremony, having a second shooter will prevent as much movement from happening on my part, which could otherwise distract your guests. Additionally, I can focus on the couple while my assistant can focus on the reactions of guests. At the reception, getting an alternative angle during the first dance, cake cutting and bouquet toss is particularly fun!
To show this, I’ve compiled a gallery of images from Mallory and Clay’s recent wedding, that show images taken by myself and my assistant that day, Jennifer. These are images that were taken at the exact same time, down to the second! My favorites in particular are the shots where Mallory is walking down the aisle. I had Jennifer follow her from behind, while I was up in front of her. Also, the reception room at the Grand Valley Dale Ballroom had a second story, which provided an additional vantage point. Having Jennifer there added images to Mallory and Clay’s wedding gallery taken from additional interesting angles that told a more complete story of the day.
