When you’re looking for a wedding photographer, it’s easy to focus on the singular word: photographer. As in just one. Isn’t that what everyone has? Just one wedding photographer? That’s what I thought when planning my wedding. I didn’t realize how important it was for a photographer to have a second shooter. In fact, I didn’t even know what that meant or how much that would change the way everything played out on my big day. Luckily, my second shooter, Kamal, was part of a package deal with Gaby, and I didn’t even need to think about it. It’s one of the best non-decisions I’ve ever made.
More pictures (all the ones you want)
When the bride and groom are getting ready in their separate rooms, a photographer can only be in one place at a time (unfortunately, cloning isn’t an option.) So if you had just one photographer, what does this mean for your photos? There would be a rush back and forth, making it impossible to capture every getting-ready moment from both the bride and the groom’s side. But with a second shooter, all your dream photos are possible.
This can’t-be-everywhere-at-once concept applies to the ceremony as well, especially when the bride is walking down the aisle. The second shooter can capture many different angles and also hone in on the reactions of friends, family, and the groom. When I was the maid of honor at my best friend’s wedding (which Gaby also photographed), Kamal snapped an aerial shot of me grabbing my husband’s hand as I walked down the aisle. Unique perspectives like this really make wedding photos come to life.
Having a big wedding? Or even a medium-sized one? During the reception, you’ll be overwhelmed by everyone that wants to dance with you, pose with you, and talk to you. And on top of that, there will be an overwhelming need to take in all your surroundings, though it will be basically impossible to do so. Having two photographers will make everything feel less daunting. They will not only capture the flowers, table settings, and all the decorations, but they’ll also help coordinate group photos and steal candids of hugs and laughter.
Lights, camera, action: Wait, who is manning the lights?
The second shooter is in charge of the lighting, making sure it is positioned perfectly for every shot (which is no easy feat). My wedding day was exceptionally windy, so Kamal was at-the-ready for the lights (and cameras) to fall at any moment, on top of continuously repositioning them. But he was up for the challenge, and he did a fantastic job.
Coordinating, planning, communication: Making the day run smoothly
If the bride and groom don’t want to see each other before the ceremony, it’s extremely helpful to have the second shooter with the groom and the groomsmen to make sure the two groups don’t go in the same room.
Overall, the expression “team work makes the dream work” really does come into play with having two photographers. Together, they make double sure that they will have the bride and groom’s pictures done in time for specific key events, and they coordinate with each other to fit in every important shot.
Contact Benoit & McCarthy Photography today at [email protected]. You can relax knowing that two experts will be on the job, covering all angles. They will have your back.