There is a time and place for everything. This statement is true of most things including if you should have a second photographer or not at your wedding. If you haven’t ever planned a wedding before it’s difficult to know what the right answer is. At Shane Webber Photography we offer second photographers and can advise on whether we think it makes sense for your wedding day or not. Couples often ask us “Should I get a second wedding photographer?”, we have all our top advice below!
Get loads more helpful advice with our wedding planning tips.
Wedding Size
The most obvious consideration is the size of the wedding. A small gathering most likely won’t require a second photographer. If the wedding is really small it could be overkill and detract away from proceedings. Alternatively if the wedding is large then you will really need to have a second wedding photographer to get enough coverage. If you are having more than 150 guests we think you should consider booking a package with a second photographer.
See examples of our work on our featured weddings page.
Benefits Of A Second Photographer
Booking a second photographer for your wedding has some key benefits. If these sound appealing get in touch and we can discuss your requirements further.
• More images in the final gallery
• Coverage of groom and bridal preparation with a dedicated photographer
• Extra angles covered during the ceremony (e.g. view from the back of the room)
• More candid photos (when the lead photographer is taking portraits and family group photos the second photographer can be taking photos of the guests)
Couples having mid-sized weddings often find it the hardest to decide if they need a second photographer. If you want to have the best possible coverage then definitely go ahead and book!
“Second photographers are great on the day to get more angles and capture lots of beautiful natural photos”
Shane Webber Photography
Lots Of Details
For weddings with lots of details and plenty going on a second photographer is suggested. Your lead photographer will be focused on getting all the most important photos and moments. The second photographer can be taking room and detail photos. Consider what entertainment you have and how much time in-between the ceremony and the meal. A shorter schedule can force your photographer to prioritise key shots. A second photographer takes this pressure off and you will have everything covered.
Natural Photos
If you love natural wedding photographs then a second photographer will be a great addition to your wedding dream team! Whilst the lead photographer is taking your beautiful wedding portraits they can be capturing candid photos of the guests. This is especially handy if your wedding venue has large grounds and you want to spend a good while on your own portraits. Group photos and couples shots all take time away from your photographer getting lovely natural images of the guests. Hiring a second photographer for the day lets you rest easy knowing they will be snapping away for the whole drinks reception.
Photography Budget
We want everyone to have amazing wedding photos! That’s why we always suggest if you don’t have money for extras then put all your budget into your lead photographer. Booking an amazing lead photographer is far better than having a photographer, second photographer, engagement shoot and album which are all mediocre. If the price for your favourite photographer and a second is more than you want to spend just focus on getting the best lead photographer you can. We encourage our couples to build their package based on their needs. Every element of our service from our wedding photography to our albums are the best possible quality. Couples can choose to have a package with all the bells and whistles or just have full day coverage providing beautiful high-quality photos.
When it comes to choosing additional services we are on hand to help advise what makes the most sense for your wedding day. Let us know what plans you have for your wedding in your consultation and we will work out a plan suitable for your needs. Our dedicated Studio Manager is on hand to help you find the right package for your wedding. We would love to hear all about your big day – get in touch for prices and to book a consultation.
Leave A Comment