Second Shooters: Do You Need One, or Just Want One?

If you’ve started researching wedding photography, you’ve probably come across the term second shooter. And maybe now you’re wondering… Do we need one? Is it worth the extra cost?

The short answer: It depends and not just on your budget.

As your photographer (and someone who’s walked couples through every kind of wedding), lets want to break it down in a way that’s honest, practical, and rooted in real experience... not just sales pitch talk.

First, What Even Is a Second Shooter?

A second shooter is an additional photographer hired to assist on your wedding day. While one will focus on capturing the main flow of your day (getting ready, portraits, ceremony, reception) a second shooter can capture different angles, reactions, details, or parts of the day happening in a separate location.

So yes, there are perks.

• While one is with the bride, the other might be with the groom.

• While one is photographing your ceremony, the other might be capturing your guests’ reactions.

• While one styling your flat lay, the other might be catching the venue details.

THAT SAID....

Do You Need One?

Let’s be real. Sometimes a second shooter is less of a need and more of a luxury. Here’s how I help couples decide:

Guest Count:

• Under 100 guests: You absolutely do not need a second shooter. The space is manageable, the timeline is focused, and I can move freely without missing anything. You’ll get everything you need (and then some) with just one photographer.

• 100–150 guests: You’re entering that soft gray area. If your wedding has multiple locations, a sprawling venue, or a particularly detailed timeline, it might be helpful, but it’s still not required.

• 150–250 guests: Now we’re talking. At this level, having a second shooter starts to make more sense. It allows us to divide and conquer without stress, especially during cocktail hour, large receptions, or overlapping events. However, can still be managed by one if you're still not convinced on a second person.

• 250+ guests: Absolutely. We would highly recommend it any larger. Big venues, big crowds, and big moments need more coverage. One photographer running from getting ready to ceremony to cocktail hour and back again may not be as efficient and we don’t want to sprint through your day... we want to slow down and document it well.

Emotional Flow:

Another consideration? Your comfort.

Weddings are deeply emotional. Beautiful, yes, but also intense. Having two photographers hovering around you all day can feel overwhelming, especially if you're someone who doesn’t love the spotlight.

Sometimes having one familiar photographer gently moving in and out of spaces, reading the room, and giving you small moments to breathe is a gift in itself.

If you value peace, connection, and space.. know that a solo shooter can provide that balance beautifully.

Is It Worth the Extra Money?

That’s something only you can answer, but here’s how we see it:

• If you’re already stretching your budget, skip the second shooter and trust that your lead has got you covered. We know how to move with intention, get what matters, and keep your day running smoothly.

• If you can afford it and want every possible angle captured, it’s a great enhancement.

• If you're unsure, ask yourself:What do I actually want more of? Candids? Guest reactions? Faster turnaround time? If none of those are a high priority, you may not need to add it.

In Summary…

Second shooters are a beautiful addition, but not a requirement for a meaningful, well-documented day.

With SHOTS BY LC, you’re hiring someone who knows how to anticipate moments, capture them with care, and move through your day with calm confidence. We’ll never push you toward a second shooter unless we truly believe your wedding needs one.

And if it does? We’ve got a trusted team ready to support.

But if it doesn’t? You’ve still got a lead photographer who will be fully present, fully capable, and fully committed to telling your story.