Why Book A Second Shooter?
What is a Second Shooter?
One of the options I offer is for a second shooter. And whilst not every wedding will benefit from having a second shooter, there are many reasons why one can really add a huge amount of value to the day.
A Second Shooter is another photographer who works with me during the day. They are there to assist me during the day making sure all moments are covered, sometimes from multiple angles. It is often the case that whilst I'm focusing on the key moments, they are able to have a broader view of the day, and be capturing guest reactions or small details which I can't. The photos they take will be given to me and I will edit them to ensure all the photos we deliver have a uniform look in terms of style.
Photos by 2nd Photographer Rachael Francesca
What is so good about having a Second Photographer?
There are many reasons why booking a second can be such great value. I'll break them down below:
Getting Ready Photos
If the couple is getting ready at different locations, the easiest solution for full coverage is having a second photographer.
Ceremony Angles
A second shooter ensures all angles are covered during the ceremony, especially if there's no room for me to move or time for me get to some unique vantage points.
Candid Coverage
A second photographer can capture candid moments while I focus on planned shots, which is especially helpful for large guest counts.
Perfect Portraits
A second shooter enhances couple portraits by offering creative angles, adjusting details, and assisting with lighting, especially for night shoots. This allows me to be more creative and create more epic photos!
Dan Jones of Step 10 captures a wonderful moment during the speeches
Second Opinion?
I love having a second working with me during the day, and whilst it certainly isn’t always necessary, it always adds something. I like working with the same few second photographers whenever possible as we have built up relationships, I have complete trust in them, and they know what I expect from them. They are, of course also wonderful people and fantastic photographers in their own right.
Matt Atherton has my back (literally) whilst shooting the bridal parade
Matt Atherton who has seconded for me a number of times, was the obvious choice to my own wedding!
FAQ
How much does a Second Shooter cost?
£500 which includes both their time shooting and my time editing
How many more photos would we get?
It’s normally around 250-350 more photos.
When do we need to decide on whether to get one?
Not right away, and not necessarily before paying the deposit. I normally book someone in 2-3 months before the wedding so if you change your mind we can always book around then. In all honesty I could probably find someone willing to second even the day before the wedding, but obviously it probably wouldn’t be someone I know or had worked with before, so might not be ideal!
We like the idea but can’t really stretch to a second. Is there anything you can do?
Well, sometimes I like to give new seconds a try, so with the understanding that I haven’t worked with them before I can potentially work something out. There is also an option I can bring an assistant with me, someone to help with lighting set ups mainly. They will not be taking any photos but you will get the benefit of help creating great shots.
An Elf lends a hand with the lighting at a very prestigious wedding...
