So what is a second shooter and what do they do anyway?
When you hire a wedding photographer depending on the size of the wedding, they will usually bring along an assistant and or another photographer with them to help them keep things flowing throughout the day. Most people don’t realize how much work goes into photographing a wedding. It’s actually incredibly exhausting, exciting and I know I run on adrenaline pretty much the entire day. I don’t always use the same assistant and I have a few willing professional photographers on standby for whenever I need a second shooter. My most recent assistant had no idea how much work she was getting herself into and claimed it would likely be her last wedding lol…..
A second shooter is another pair of eyes.
You of course want creative eyes to help you see the things you may miss. At a wedding, there are tons of opportunities to miss things because you simply cannot be everywhere at once. A second shooter can also be at another location than your main photographer. I second shoot a lot, and I adore it. Often the head photographer will need me to photograph the groomsmen while she/he is off with the bride and her party. This allows both of us to have more time with the guys and gals and get more creative because we are less worried about time constraints. Often times the bride and groom are getting ready in two different locations, so this is ideal. The second can also help shoot little things like the cake, centerpieces and details. They can help the main shooter work the room so more time can be spent with you and your wedding party.
Creativity x 2.
A second shooter may see things differently or help the main photographer come up with some different ideas. Trust me, when you are alone shooting a wedding, sometimes another set of eyes comes in pretty handy! They can also focus on little details like mom crying in the front row during the ceremony while the main shooter is focused on the couple saying their vows.
Angles.
Let’s talk about different angles. Envision this: The main shooter is focused on the couple at the alter, just waiting for “the kiss.” Second shooter is standing by off side also waiting for the kiss. The kiss happens….boom you have got two different angles of the same moment with a totally different feel to them.
Back up.
When your wedding photographer has a second shooter they can relax a bit more. Why? What if their gear fails? What if they slip on Uncle Bob’s spilled margarita and smash their camera on the ground? (Nightmare) What if they get an emergency call from a loved one saying their daughter is in the emergency room and they have to leave ASAP? When they have a second shooter with them, their back up plan is in place. In a worst case scenario, your second shooter can take over or help remedy equipment problems. This is never a bad thing.
Extra Expense?
So all of this sounds like a good case for having a second shooter right? So let’s talk cost. Does it cost more to have a second shooter at your wedding? The answer to that is likely yes. It depends on how your photographer structures it into the cost of your wedding package. Some will have it rolled right into the cost and others will have it as an addition. Either way, it is something to seriously consider when hiring a wedding photographer. The cost to add one is usually not that high considering all of the added value and piece of mind they provide. 
Booking a wedding for 2015 and beyond?
If you are getting married next year, you are likely already considering your venue and photographer. Ask your potential photographer if they use second shooters and they will tell you how invaluble they are. I have a few professional photographers that will work with me and whose skills I trust to help deliver every moment of your wedding day. To book me and my awesome side kick for 2015 CONTACT ME and I will be more than happy to help you start planning your unforgettable wedding day.
