When planning your wedding, you might come across the option to hire a second photographer, or “second shooter”, to work alongside your main photographer. But what does this mean for you, and is it worth the investment? Let’s break down what to expect when hiring a second shooter, including what they capture, how the photos are delivered, and how it affects pricing.
What is a Second Shooter?
A second shooter is an additional photographer hired by your main photographer to assist in capturing your wedding day. They act as an extra set of eyes, ensuring no moment is missed. While your main photographer focuses on the primary events and key moments, the second shooter helps document complementary perspectives and candid moments that add depth to your wedding gallery.
What Does the Second Shooter Capture?
Having a second shooter means you’ll get more comprehensive coverage of your wedding day. Here are some examples of what they might capture:
- Getting Ready Moments: While the main photographer is with the bride, the second shooter can document the groom and groomsmen preparing for the day.
- Alternative Angles: During the ceremony, the main photographer might focus on close-up shots of the couple, while the second shooter captures wide-angle shots of the venue or candid reactions from guests.
- Candid Moments: The second shooter often roams during cocktail hour, reception, and other transitional moments, capturing interactions, laughter, and little details you might miss.
- Guest Reactions: While the main photographer is focused on the couple, the second shooter can document guests’ joyful tears, laughter, and spontaneous moments.
How Do Second Shooter Photos Fit with the Main Photographer’s Style?
One common concern couples have is whether the second shooter’s photos will look cohesive with the rest of their gallery. The answer? Absolutely.
All photos, whether taken by the main photographer or the second shooter, are delivered by the main photographer. This means:
Curated Delivery: The main photographer carefully reviews and selects the best images from both shooters, giving you a polished and cohesive final product.
Consistent Style: The main photographer edits all the photos to ensure they match their signature style, ensuring a seamless look throughout your gallery.
How Does Pricing Work for a Second Shooter?
Adding a second shooter typically comes at an additional cost, but the pricing is usually reasonable given the added value. Here’s what you can expect:
- Hourly Rate or Flat Fee: Some photographers charge an hourly rate for a second shooter (e.g., $50–$100 per hour), while others have a flat fee for the day (e.g., $300–$500).
- Included in Premium Packages: Some wedding packages may include a second shooter as part of the overall pricing.
- Flexible Options: Many photographers, including myself, allow you to decide whether to add a second shooter after discussing your needs and wedding size.
Feel free to visit my packages section to learn more about my offerings. I usually look to provide a second shooter at $50/hour but it’s worth a discussion.
Do You Need a Second Shooter?
While not every wedding requires a second shooter, there are situations where it can make a significant difference:
- Large Guest List: If you’re expecting 150+ guests, having a second shooter ensures everyone and everything is well-documented.
- Multiple Locations: If getting-ready photos are happening in separate locations or you have a sprawling venue, a second shooter helps cover more ground.
- You Want Every Detail Captured: From candid moments to alternative angles, a second shooter ensures no memory is missed.
Personal Note
When my wife and I got married, we hired a second shooter and were really glad we did. He spent the morning with the groom and groomsmen while our main photographer was with the bride. The photos turned out great. Would we have noticed if we didn’t have those moments? Probably not. But having them made the gallery feel more complete and gave us a better sense of how the whole day unfolded.
Final Thoughts: What to Expect When Hiring a Second Shooter
Hiring a second shooter adds tremendous value to your wedding day coverage. You can expect more photos, diverse angles, and a fuller story of your day, all delivered in the cohesive, polished style of your main photographer.
If you’re considering a second shooter, I’d love to chat and help you decide if it’s the right choice for your wedding. Whether you’re planning a large celebration or a more intimate gathering, I’m here to ensure every moment is captured beautifully.