Most couples would agree that choosing the right photographer for their wedding is not only a necessity, but also a very important decision to make as they are planning the wedding. Nowadays, more and more, couples are deciding on having two photographers rather than just one. If you’re on the fence and wondering why you would need a second photographer for your wedding. Here are some reasons to consider it.

Two Photographers Cover More Ground
A key benefit of having two photographers is that you’ll have photographs from various locations at your wedding. No matter how good your photographer is, he or she can only cover one location at a time. A second shooter provides you with double the coverage. For example, while the lead photographer is getting shots of the bride preparing for the wedding, the second shooter can focus on the groom.

The Second Shooter Can Assist the Lead Photographer
At times, the two photographers may be in different spots, capturing different people and happenings. However, there may also be times when the lead photographer can use some assistance setting things up. Having a second photographer on hand is very helpful for tasks such as holding lights, carrying equipment, moving items around, or helping to guide subjects into more favorable positions.

Professional photographers can and often do get by without any help. They can always ask someone nearby to hold something or move something. However, having another professional on hand makes it easier and faster. You will end up with a greater selection of photos, some of which may never have been taken with only a solo photographer.

Two Photographers Can Capture Scenes from Multiple Angles
As noted, a second photographer can cover a different area of the wedding. Additionally, even when both photographers are covering the same scene or people, they can do so from different angles. For key moments, such as the bride and groom walking down the aisle and the wedding ceremony itself, it’s very beneficial to get multiple vantage points. Consider all the additional photographs you’ll get by getting both big and small moments captured from multiple perspectives.

A Second Shooter Speeds Things Up
Weddings can be hectic as people make their way from one spot to another, such as from the wedding to the reception. If you’re having a large wedding with many family portraits on the agenda, two photographers will help speed things up so everyone can get to the reception more quickly.

Let’s You Preserve Low Key Moments
A photographer working alone has to pick and choose their shots. While they may capture some smaller moments, they need to focus mainly on the big picture. When there’s a second shooter, he or she can look for details and less obvious subjects, providing a broader and more well-rounded account of the event.

Helps the Lead Photographer Focus
Even the best and most experienced photographers are sometimes stretched to their limits at busy events. When the lead photographer has someone to assist, it makes their job so much easier. They can do their job with more precision and not feel they need to rush around to make sure they don’t miss anything.

It’s Safer to Have a Backup Photographer
While two photographers are better than one, what’s even more fundamental is that you need at least one photographer at your wedding. There’s always the chance that something could happen on the day of your wedding that prevents the lead photographer from showing up. Whether it’s an illness, vehicle problems, or a family emergency, it’s always safe to have a backup. A second shooter helps ensure that you’ll have at least one photographer at your wedding. In all likelihood, you’ll have two, which is even better.

Ask Your Lead Photographer to Recommend a Second Shooter
If you decide to hire a second photographer for your wedding, how should you go about finding them? If you’ve already chosen your primary photographer, mention to them that you’d like to have a backup shooter. Most often they will have someone to recommend who they work with regularly. It’s ideal if the two photographers have experience working together. Even photographers who typically work solo will usually be able to recommend someone qualified who can back them up at your wedding.

When Should We Have a Second Photographer for Our Wedding?
Granted, not every wedding needs two photographers. It depends on your preferences as well as the type of wedding you’re having. The following questions will help you decide.

• How large is your wedding? If it’s a small and intimate affair with only a handful of guests, you probably can get by with one photographer.
• How large and spread out is the venue? The larger the venue, the more a second shooter will help. If it’s a small and compact location, one photographer may be able to handle everything.
• What is your budget? Two photographers will cost more than one. If you’re on a very tight budget, you may want to stick with one. However, if you want to take advantage of the benefits of a second photographer, you could consider reviewing other wedding expenses that you might be able to scale back on.

Many couples that are planning their wedding initially think of hiring just one photographer. However, once you start considering all the advantages, having a second shooter can put your mind at ease and add additional assurance of having a great selection of professional photos to look back upon.