Why A Second Photographer Is Important On A Wedding Day

When it comes to weddings and elopements I include a second photographer in all of my packages. I have never shown up to a wedding day solo and there a few good reasons for this. Having a second photographer included in your wedding day is essential to not only ensure you receive a diverse gallery, but it also serves as a back up plan should an emergency occur. I also don’t contract out various photographers to second shoot for me, you can count on image consistency because my husband Jp is my full-time second. As my second photographer, Jp keeps things chill with the guys, knows how to pin a boutonniere and fluff the train of your dress, and does a million other things including cut downed trees and runs to the store for any items a couple may have forgotten, he does it all folks!

Emergencies happen, having a second photographer is crucial when they do.

Trust me when I say a wedding day emergency is every wedding-vendor’s worst nightmare. Imagine I'm photographing your wedding day, we are a few hours in, all of a sudden a stomach bug hits me or I trip and break my ankle. Now I’m down and out. Who is going to keep photographing your day? JP. He’s been shooting with me for years now and I’m fully confident that if something were to happen to me, he’d be able to take over and make sure your day was still documented beautifully! All while preventing a lapse in coverage.

A second photographer gives you a variety of images and helps tell the story of your day in more detail.

Having a second photographer on your wedding day is crucial for capturing every special moment from different angles and perspectives. To put it simply, I can’t be in two places at once, no matter how hard I try! While I the main photographer may focus on the core events, having Jp there ensures that no detail is missed. He can simultaneously capture the reactions of your loved ones, candid moments, and intricate details. Us as a team can cover a wider range of shots, providing you with a more comprehensive visual story of your big day in your final gallery.

Examples of this include-

The first look, I focus on one person, he focus’ on the other.

The ceremony, specifically walking down the aisle we can get multiple perspectives of each person and guests.

Speeches and other guest focused activities, we can capture both the person speaking and the couple and guests reactions.

Creative shots, while I might be focused on the big picture, Jp is looking for those little moments. I am always in awe of the unique shots Jp takes, that I never would have thought of!

A second shooter creates efficiency in your timeline.

One of the main portions of your timeline where having a second photographer really helps with efficiency is during the getting ready part of the day. I am able to be with the women, while Jp is with the guys. This is especially helpful when each group is getting ready at different locations. You get the benefits of having both groups photographed, which is only possible with having a second photographer. He also keeps things moving during family formals which take an average of 20minutes. He calls out a pre-made list of family combinations and helps wrangle family members, then I arrange everyone and take the photos. This would take twice as long if I were by myself. There are many times throughout the day I send him to go do a task, help the couple grab something or coordinate an event such as a first look. While he is doing that, I can still be photographing whatever is happening at that moment.

Nervous that having two people there with cameras during your elopement day will be overwhelming?

With a blend of documentary, candid photography paired with assistance where and when you need it, we photograph your wedding day in a way that respects your space but still tells a complete story of your day. We know how intimate an elopement day is, and we value giving you the space to be yourselves. We are present when needed but aim to blend into the background during moments like your vows and first dance.

What it all comes down to is this, when both of us are there to document your day, it enables us to give you the experience you deserve! From day of services to your final gallery, two photographers are always better than one!

Hi! I’m Liz, I specialize in Pennsylvania elopement photography and planning. I've helped over 100 couples plan their dream elopements and weddings, and I would be honored to help guide you on this next adventure. I help couples create wedding days that are intentional and stress-free by offering a supportive, knowledgeable and kind experience that includes vendor and location research and custom timeline curation, ensuring couples get beautiful photos while having an incredible time.

If you're interested in learning more about how I can help plan your wedding day, don’t wait contact me today and let’s get started!