How to have the best wedding day experience | Why you need a second shooter at your wedding.

Wedding Series Part 3 of 10

What Is a Second Shooter?

A second shooter is essentially a second photographer for your wedding day—and one of the most valuable additions you can make to your photography package. While it may seem like an extra cost at first, the benefits far outweigh the investment. I always recommend including a second shooter because of the incredible value they add to your final wedding gallery, whether you’re celebrating in the heart of Chicago, the charm of Peoria, or the vibrant energy of Atlanta.

I work exclusively with a trusted group of second shooters who are trained to photograph in a way that reflects my style and artistic vision. They specialize in capturing alternative angles, special moments, and fine details that I may not be able to catch on my own. Working as a team allows us to create a comprehensive and visually stunning collection of photos that truly tells the authentic story of your day.

 

Here Are Just a Few Reasons Why Including a Second Shooter Is Worth It

 

1) More Moments and Perspectives Captured

With two sets of eyes on your wedding day, we are able to document different moments as they unfold. While I may be focused on formal portraits and key events, a second shooter can capture candid interactions, reactions, and special moments happening in the background. This ensures your gallery includes both posed and spontaneous shots that reflect the full energy and emotion of your joyful celebration—whether it’s a rooftop ceremony in Chicago, a garden wedding in Peoria, or a historic venue in Atlanta.

While the main photographer is focused on the groom catching the garter in midair. While the second shooter can get the reaction of the groomsmen as they rush for the garter. 

                         

Different angles during the first look with the Bride & Groom. Lead left, Second right.

2) Coverage in Two Places at Once

Often, the bride and groom are getting ready in separate locations. A second shooter allows us to be in both places at once, capturing getting-ready moments, detail shots, and fun with the bridal party.

My second shooter usually spends time with the groom and groomsmen while I focus on the bride and her portraits. When you receive your final gallery, you’ll have a well-rounded collection that truly represents the full story of your wedding day, no matter where those moments took place—from a cozy suite in Peoria to a chic loft in Atlanta.

Having a photographer in two places at once ensures that you get everything on your wish list without feeling like you’ll forget something or that there won’t be enough time. The main photographer captured the bride reading a note from the groom. While the second shooter captured the groom getting ready, details. 

While the main photographer was working on the detail photos for the bride.

The second shooter got details of the groom and was able to get some early reception area detail photos.

 

3) Different and Unique Ceremony Angles

The wedding ceremony is one of the most special and emotional parts of the day. While I concentrate on the traditional must-have shots—like the walk down the aisle, the vows, and the first kiss—my second shooter captures unique perspectives and genuine guest reactions. Together, we provide a broad range of images that document the ceremony in a creative and meaningful way, preserving the timeless essence of your love story.

Your main photographer is usually down front, capturing the bride coming down the aisle and the first reaction of the groom. The second shooter is getting the details from behind the bride 

Second shooters are able to get cool vantage points as the main photographer is present, making sure no moment goes unmissed.

4) Cocktail Hour Coverage

Cocktail hour is a fun-filled time brimming with joyful moments. It’s also a time when I’m typically taking family portraits or couple photos. A second shooter is free to roam the party, capturing your guests, candid interactions, and the start of the celebration.

They also focus on photographing the personal details you’ve incorporated into your reception. Whether it’s a sentimental photo display, custom signage, or your carefully chosen floral arrangements, a second shooter ensures those authentic elements will be preserved in your gallery—especially important for couples hosting elegant receptions in Chicago, rustic barn weddings in Peoria, or modern soirées in Atlanta.

 

While the main photographer is busy with formal photos like family, bridal party, and bride & groom portraits after the ceremony. The second photographer is off to the cocktail hour to capture photos of couples and the overall atmosphere post-ceremony. 

5) Variety in Your Final Gallery

While my second shooters are trained to match my style, they also bring their own creative eye to your wedding photography. This adds more variety and artistic expression to your final gallery. You’ll receive a cohesive, beautifully curated collection of images that not only tells your love story but also highlights moments and angles that might otherwise go unnoticed—creating a timeless keepsake of your day.

   

You get a more diverse gallery for the same time frame, and it’s really awesome!

Elevate Your Wedding Photography with a Second Shooter

Including a second shooter is highly recommended when planning your wedding photography. From expanded coverage and multiple angles to more candid guest shots and a richer variety of images, a second shooter ensures your entire day is captured in its fullest form. If you want a wedding gallery that tells your complete love story from every angle, including a second shooter, it is a must.

Whether you’re planning a joyful celebration in Chicago, an authentic gathering in Peoria, or a timeless affair in Atlanta, I’d love to talk about building your perfect wedding photography collection.