Let’s talk having a second photographer…

Let me first start by saying that you don’t have to have a second photographer for your wedding. But there are lots of reasons why you might like to book a second photographer. Today’s blog will offer 5 reasons why this might be a good option for you.

GROOM PREPARATIONS

This is one of the main reasons that my clients will often tell me they chose to book a second photographer. After all, it’s the groom’s big day too! Having a second photographer will enable you to have the grooms preparations captured as well. Although, the grooms morning prep is not as detailed as the brides; not many groom’s start the morning with facemasks and rollers in their hair. You might want to capture the groom and his groomsman having a traditional hot shave, a trip to the local barbers or adjusting each other’s ties.  

GUESTS ARRIVAL

In the hour or so just before the ceremony starts, I would usually be busy with the bride capturing last minute make-up and hair touches, getting into that stunning dress and of course her first look with the farther of the bride and her bridesmaids. Therefore, I won’t be available to capture the guests first arriving to the ceremony. This is where a second photographer comes in very handy, they can be there to capture all these little moments, the groom’s nervous arrival and lots of hugging as everyone arrives to celebrate your special day.

THE CEREMONY

During the ceremony, I try not to run around too much, I don’t want to distract you or the registrar. But having second photographer allows us to capture the ceremony from all angles; maybe even different heights if the venue has a balcony. This also means you can enjoy close up shots of your facial expressions and the happy tears. As well as the beautiful shots from way down the aisle and the way the dress and veil flow so beautifully. Another good point to mention here is that, more than often I am asked to capture the bride as she makes her way down the aisle, but we don’t want to miss the exact moment the groom first sees his wife to be in her beautiful dress. The second photographer will be able capture this lovely moment and the groom won’t be able to deny that there were a few tears their too!

GROUP SHOTS AND reception mingling!

 So, now its official you’re married! You’ve left the ceremony and now it’s time to have group shots. Which can vary in time depending on weather and on how many family and friends you want to be part of these. Too many great, great uncles and we might be a little behind schedule. Again this is where having a second photographer can really help, along with a pre-planned list for each photo. The second photographer can start on the groom’s family whilst, I start with the bride’s family. It will also allow one of us to sneak off and capture the layout of the reception room in all its glory before guests start to enter, this way you can remember how beautiful the space looked and how your hard work and months or years of planning has finally come together!

As your guests enter this room, I always like to capture their happy reactions as they see how amazing everything looks. Having another photographer will enable us to capture more of these moments. One photographer capturing the fun, games and little ones running around with bubbles outside. And another inside there to capture the guests arriving and having drinks, canapés and a lovely time.

If looking back at these candid shots of your guests and the little moments are really important to you, I’d always recommend a second photographer to help capture them. Especially if you have over 100 guests, and you would like photos of everyone invited; I’d certainly recommend considering it. You’ll get a lot more shots of them if you have a second photographer come along for the day.

THE SPEECHES

During the speeches I would usually be right there by the top table, probably hiding out of site but somewhere I can get great photos. Having a second photographer will enable photos of the speaker and his expression as he tells a slightly embarrassing but funny story and also the audience’s reactions as there hear this story for the first time.

So what does all this mean…?

Well, it’s not absolutely necessary to have second photographer to capture your day, but these are a few reasons it might suit you if it’s something you’re considering. You don’t have to look for another photographer and pay full price, I offer a discounted price for second photographer at £350 or if you purchase Capella package number 3, a second photographer is already included! Having another photographer that I have worked with before is a great idea. It means, I know and trust their skills and style, and that we work well together so that no special moment will be lost.

If you’re not 100% sure what you should do, pop me a little message. We can talk the plans for the day and see if having a second photographer is a good option for you!

Your girl at Laani,

Capella Photography