Wedding Photography Series: Part 5 of 10
What Is a Second Shooter?
A second shooter is essentially a second photographer for your wedding day–and one of the most valuable additions you can make to your photography package. White it may seem like an extra cost at first, the benefits far outweigh the investment. I always recommend including a second shooter because of the incredible value they add to your final wedding gallery.
I work exclusively with a trusted group of second shooters who are trained to photograph in a way that reflects my style and artistic vision. They specialize in capturing alternative angles, special moments and find details that I may not be able to catch on my own. Working as a team allows us to create a comprehensive and visually stunning collection of photos that truly tells the story of your day.
Here are just a few reasons why including a second shooter is worth it.
1) More Moments and Perspectives Captured
With two sets of eyes on your wedding day, we are able to document different moments as they unfold. While I may be focused on formal portraits and key events, a second shooter can capture candid interactions, reactions and special moments that are happening in the background. This ensures your gallery includes both posed and spontaneous shots that reflect the full energy and emotion of your celebration.
A candid photo that caught the flower girls watching our team photograph the bride.
J and her bridesmaid walking across a Savannah street on the way to photos.
There is beauty in a simple, candid shot of the bride's veil just before she puts it on.
An unplanned photo at C + J's wedding as guests signed wine bottles rather than a guest book.
Taken from a different angle, this photo captures the nervous excitement just before G + R's first look.
2) Coverage in Two Places at Once
Often, the bride and groom are getting ready in separate locations. A second shooter allows us to be in both places at once, capturing getting-ready moments, detail shots and fun with the bridal party.
My second shooter usually spends time with the groom and groomsmen while I focus on the bride and her portraits. When you receive your final gallery, you will have a well-rounded collection that truly represents the full story of your wedding day, no matter where those moments took place.
R spent the morning getting ready in a different location than G. A second shooter is able to capture photos of the groom to ensure the entire day is documented.
J and his father had a quiet moment before his first look with E.
While the bride was hidden away before the ceremony, T and his groomsmen walked to the church.
R and his groomsmen took time to enjoy a drink while G was having a private moment with her father.
R and his groomsmen considering their options as they took time for a celebratory toast.
3) Different and Unique Ceremony Angles
The wedding ceremony is one of the most special and emotional parts of the day. While I concentrate on the traditional must-have shots–like the walk down the aisle, the vows and the first kiss–my second shooter captures unique perspectives and genuine guest reactions. Together, we provide a broad range of images that document the ceremony in a creative and meaningful way.
Taken from the balcony Beaulieu's plantation home creates a unique perspective for J + J's ceremony.
A second shooter stays with the bride and her father before walking down the aisle. The resulting photos are filled with emotion and love.
A unique perspective as the officiant took a selfie with A + D during their ceremony.
Taken from two different angles, you can see the benefit of having a second shooter during the ceremony.
A different view of R + T's ceremony allows my team to deliver multiple photos with varying perspectives.
Capturing candid photos of guests during the ceremony is one advantage of having a second shooter.
4) Cocktail Hour Coverage
Cocktail hour is a fun-filled time filled with joyful moments. It is also a time when I am typically taking family portraits or couple photos. A second shooter is free to roam the party, capturing your guests, candid interactions, and the start of the celebration. t
They also focus on photographing the personal details you have incorporated into your reception. Whether it is a sentimental photo display, custom sign or your carefully chosen floral arrangements, a second shooter ensures those elements will be preserved in your gallery.
A second shooter can photograph details at your reception while I focus on photos with the family and wedding party.
Cocktail hour is a perfect time to take candid and group photos of your guests.
Simple candid shots like these are just some of the photos that will be in your final gallery.
Hotel Bardo's courtyard where R + T hosted cocktail hour before guests arrived.
A beautiful photo of guests taken at J + J’s wedding.
Beautiful reception details taken at G + R's reception at Perry Lane Hotel.
Candid photo for guests at R + T wedding.
With a second shooter, there are limitless opportunities to photograph your guests throughout the day.
5) Variety in Your Final Gallery
While my second shooters are trained to match my style, they also bring their own creative eye to your wedding photography. This adds more variety and artistic expression to your final gallery. You will receive a cohesive, beautifully curated collection of images that not only tells your love story but also highlights moments and angles that might otherwise go unnoticed.
J + J dug up a bottle of buried bourbon and toasted to beautiful weather with their wedding party.
As a loved member of the family, Kava met the couple at the alter to be a part of A + D’s ceremony.
R and his groomsmen, full of excitement, are ready to celebrate.
A + D wrote personal notes to each guest that included seat assignments for the reception.
A beautiful moment captured at cocktail hour as guests admire C's ring.
Elevate Your Wedding Photography with a Second Shooter
Including a second shooter is highly recommended when planning your wedding photography. From expanded coverage and multiple angles to more candid guest shots and a richer variety of images, a second shooter ensures your entire day is captured in its fullest form. If you want a wedding gallery that tells your complete love story from every angle, including a second shooter is a must.
Want to learn more about how a second shooter can enhance your wedding experience? I’d love to talk about building your perfect wedding photography package. You can contact me here.
See more weddings on the blog here.
