We get this question a lot. Let's talk about it!

Wedding ceremony takes place by a tranquil lake with willow trees and a wooden hexagonal arch at sunset.
Wedding party sits in black chairs arranged in a row outdoors with willow trees and a lake in the background.

First, let's lay some ground!


Any second shooter that I hire has met my high standard for artistic excellence and professionalism. Most often, it's my husband, Nathan! You can read more about our approach here. But, regardless of who it is, I take extra care to ensure my second shooter is briefed on all parts of your day, the dynamics of your family, and all the special details that are important to you. I provide them with artistic direction as needed to support the things you desire out of your wedding gallery. Essentially, my second shooter functions as an extension of everything I do for you already, providing more coverage.


Wedding days move fast and as much as I'd like to be the one to capture all of it, on a typical 8 hour wedding its just impossible for me to be in multiple places at once and cover all of it in a way that truly tells the story of your day.


While my second shooters bring their own talents and abilities to help document your day, I am still the one who will curate and edit your gallery.

Here's 3 big things a second shooter brings to your wedding day.


1. Two perspectives, one moment. 


While you’re walking down the aisle, my second is grabbing your groom’s reaction. 


While you’re kissing as newlyweds on the balcony, my second is capturing your guests cheering you on. 


While you’re sharing your vows, my second is photographing the whole scene for a different, broader story. 


While you’re dancing for the first time, my second is focusing on your guests. 


The examples below are from real weddings and taken at approximately the same time. These would be nearly impossible to capture without a second shooter.

Black and white wedding processional photo showing bridesmaids walking down the aisle in formal dresses at an indoor venue.
A black and white photograph shows a group of men in formal attire standing against a stone wall.
A romantic wedding couple shares a tender kiss in a sunlit church doorway surrounded by dark wooden frames.
A crowd gathers outside brick buildings to watch someone toss a wedding bouquet in a celebratory moment.
A series of black and white photos showing a couple's first dance at their wedding reception in an elegant ballroom.
A romantic black and white photograph of a couple in formal attire standing by tall windows beneath an ornate crystal chandelier.
A couple shares their first dance at an industrial-style wedding venue with string lights and exposed brick walls.
Wedding reception guests seated at long tables in an industrial-style venue with warm lighting and rustic decor.
Black and white photo sequence showing a couple dancing and dipping during their wedding dance at an elegant venue.
A black and white photograph of a traditional church wedding ceremony with stained glass windows and organ pipes.

2. Better coverage of getting-ready photos. 


If you and your groom are getting ready in separate locations, a second shooter means both of you are documented in those intimate, behind-the-scenes moments — not just one of you.

A series of black and white photos showing healthcare workers in white coats sharing joyful moments together.
A group of men in formal attire gather together, wearing white shirts and dark vests in a warmly lit indoor setting.
A row of bridesmaid dresses in soft gray tones hang beside a white wedding gown in a bridal suite.
Black and white photo sequence showing groomsmen helping each other put on dress shoes before a wedding ceremony.
A wedding dress fitting moment captured in an elegant room with an ornate stone fireplace and arched doorway.
A groom in a black tuxedo and bow tie poses in an elegant indoor setting with natural window lighting.
A sequence of photos showing bridesmaids in pink dresses helping with wedding preparations in a bright sunlit room.
A series of photos showing two men in suits sharing an emotional moment with tissues and handkerchiefs.

3. More images, more memories. 


A second shooter adds additional photos to your final gallery — detail shots, wide reception coverage, guest portraits — giving you a fuller, richer story of your day.


Here's a visualization of a wedding reception with a second shooter and the variety of photos we're able to document:

Let's get the conversation started! If you'd like to know more about wedding coverage for your day, fill out my inquiry form now!

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