Having Multiple Wedding Photographers: A Good Idea?

The number of photographers you have at your wedding is entirely up to you. There are several factors to consider when making this decision, such as the size of your wedding, your budget, and whether you want photos of both the bride and groom's preparations.

Having two photographers means you'll get more photos from different angles and perspectives, and they can capture moments that may otherwise be missed by a single photographer. However, this also means there will be more cameras on you and your guests, which may be overwhelming for some. Additionally, you'll need to factor in the cost of a second photographer, including their vendor meal and tip.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and what you feel will work best for your special day.

Pros of having two wedding photographers

There are several advantages to hiring two wedding photographers. Here are some of the pros of having two wedding photographers:

More photos and perspectives

Having two photographers means you will get more photos of your wedding day overall. With two photographers, you will benefit from different angles and perspectives, ensuring that no moment is missed. One photographer can focus on close-ups, while the other captures wide-angle shots. This dynamic duo will be like magic, capturing the fast-paced moments from multiple viewpoints so you can relive the day through their lenses.

Be in two places at once

Two photographers can cover different locations simultaneously. While one photographer captures the couple's special memories, the other can snap shots of guests during cocktail hour or capture the reception details and guest candids. This ensures that all the important moments and intricate details are captured, even if they occur at the same time in different places.

Back-up and peace of mind

Having a second photographer provides peace of mind in case of an emergency. If something unexpected happens to the main photographer, their equipment malfunctions, or they miss a critical shot, the second photographer can step in and ensure the day is still beautifully documented.

Enhanced creativity and variety

Two photographers bring their unique styles and creative visions to the table, resulting in a diverse range of images. One photographer may focus on technical aspects, while the other captures emotional moments, resulting in a well-rounded collection of photos that tell the complete story of your special day.

Efficient logistics and support

Having an additional photographer can help with logistics and provide support. They can assist with lighting, capture behind-the-scenes moments, and ensure smooth transitions between locations. A second photographer can also take over if the main photographer needs a break, ensuring continuous coverage throughout the day.

Better coverage for large weddings

For large weddings with many guests, two photographers can more effectively capture the breadth of the event. With more people to photograph and more ground to cover, an extra pair of eyes (and hands!) can make a significant difference in ensuring that all the important moments and guests are included in the wedding album.

Hiring two wedding photographers offers a range of benefits, from capturing more moments and details to providing peace of mind and creative variety. Ultimately, the decision depends on your preferences, wedding size, and budget.

Cons of having two wedding photographers

While having two wedding photographers can be beneficial in many ways, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider. Here are some cons of having two wedding photographers:

Additional Cost

Having a second photographer can represent an extra cost, as you will need to pay their fees, meal, and tip. This additional expense may put a strain on your budget, especially if you are having an intimate wedding or are working with a limited budget.

Overwhelming for Small Guest Counts

If your wedding has a small guest count, usually around 75 or fewer, two photographers can sometimes be excessive and overwhelming for the guests. In such cases, a single photographer can adequately capture all the necessary moments without making the event feel too crowded or intrusive.

More Cameras on You

If you or your partner are camera-shy, having an additional photographer means there will be more cameras focused on you throughout the day. This could potentially make you feel uncomfortable or self-conscious, taking away from the natural flow and spontaneity of your special moments.

Editing Time

With two photographers, you will undoubtedly receive a larger collection of photos, which may result in a slightly longer editing time. While it won't be a significant delay, it's something to keep in mind if you are eager to receive your final images promptly after the wedding.

Dynamic Changes

In very small weddings or cramped spaces, having an extra photographer might change the dynamics of the event. Their presence could be slightly disruptive, especially if the additional photographer is not experienced in working discreetly and professionally.

Missed Moments

While rare, there have been instances where teams of two photographers become too casual, focusing more on their own interactions than on capturing the wedding moments. This can result in missed key moments, defeating the purpose of having an additional photographer in the first place.

When is one photographer enough?

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether one photographer is sufficient for your wedding. Firstly, the size of your wedding plays a crucial role. If you're having an intimate wedding with a small guest list, typically around 75 or fewer guests, one photographer can usually capture all the important moments. On the other hand, if your guest list exceeds 100, it might be beneficial to consider having two photographers to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Another factor to keep in mind is the number of locations and simultaneous activities during your wedding. If you and your partner are getting ready in separate locations, having two photographers can ensure that both of your preparations are documented. Similarly, if there are multiple events happening at the same time, such as the cocktail hour and couple's portraits, a second photographer can help capture different moments simultaneously.

The layout of your venue is also worth considering. If your wedding is held in a cosy location where all the activities are in close proximity, one photographer may be able to capture everything without missing a beat. However, if your venue is spread out or has multiple areas that are difficult to cover from a single position, having an additional photographer can ensure that all angles and moments are captured.

Lastly, your budget and personal preferences are important factors. Hiring a second photographer often comes with an additional cost, and having multiple photographers might feel overwhelming for a small wedding. If you're on a tighter budget or prefer a more discreet photography approach, one skilled and experienced photographer can usually capture your special day beautifully.

When do you need two wedding photographers?

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to hire one or two wedding photographers. While it ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget, here are some scenarios where having two photographers can be beneficial:

• Large weddings: If you're having a large wedding with more than 100 guests, two photographers can help ensure that all the important moments are captured. It can be challenging for a single photographer to capture everything that is happening, especially if the wedding is spread out over a large area.
• Multiple locations: If you and your partner are getting ready in different locations or if there are multiple event spaces, having two photographers can ensure that both of you are covered simultaneously. This can save time and ensure that no important moments are missed.
• Large families or bridal parties: A second photographer can be helpful if you have a large family or bridal party and want to capture various group photos and configurations. They can also help with crowd control and ensure that people are organised and ready for photos.
• Cultural traditions: If you are following specific cultural traditions related to modesty, such as having separate spaces for men and women during the getting-ready process, a second photographer of the same gender can be respectful of these traditions and capture those moments.
• More photo opportunities: Two photographers mean more photos and a wider variety of angles and perspectives. This can be especially beneficial if you want to capture both the couple's and guests' reactions during key moments, such as the first dance or speeches.
• Redundancy and backup: As the saying goes, "two is one, and one is none." Having two photographers provides redundancy and peace of mind in case something happens to one photographer or their equipment. This ensures that your special day is still captured, even in unexpected situations.

While there are many benefits to having two wedding photographers, it's important to consider your budget and the potential cons as well. Having two photographers can increase costs, result in more cameras on you and your guests, and potentially feel overwhelming for smaller, intimate weddings. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences for your big day.

How to decide on one or two photographers?

Having two photographers at your wedding can be a great way to ensure you capture all the special moments of your big day. But how do you decide if you need one or two photographers? Here are some factors to consider:

Size of your wedding

The size of your wedding is an important factor to consider when deciding on the number of photographers. If you're having a large wedding with over 100 guests, two photographers may be a good idea to ensure all the key moments are captured. With a larger guest list, there are likely to be more activities and events happening simultaneously, which one photographer may struggle to capture alone. However, if you're having a more intimate wedding with a smaller number of guests, one photographer may be sufficient.

Number of locations

If your wedding is taking place across multiple locations, such as separate venues for the ceremony and reception, or if the bride and groom are getting ready in different places, two photographers can help ensure that both locations are covered. This way, you won't miss any important moments, and you'll get a variety of shots and perspectives.

Your budget

Hiring two photographers will likely come with an additional cost, so it's important to consider your budget when making your decision. If you have room in your budget for an extra photographer, it can be a great investment to ensure you capture as many moments as possible. However, if your budget is tight, you may need to prioritise and decide if there are other areas you'd rather spend more on.

Your preferences

Ultimately, the decision to have one or two photographers comes down to your personal preferences. If having a lot of photos and capturing every moment is important to you, then two photographers may be the best option. However, if you're happy with a more limited number of photos and are comfortable with the possibility of missing some moments, one photographer can still do a great job.

Photographer's recommendation

It's a good idea to discuss your options with your chosen photographer. They will have experience shooting weddings of different sizes and will be able to advise you on whether one or two photographers are best for your specific event. They may also have a second shooter they can bring on board if needed.

Other considerations

There are a few other factors to keep in mind when deciding on the number of photographers. Firstly, having two photographers means there will be more cameras on you and your guests, which may make some people feel uncomfortable. Additionally, a second photographer may add to the overall dynamics of your wedding, especially if it's a small and intimate event. Finally, consider the timeline of your wedding day. If there are a lot of events happening simultaneously or back-to-back, two photographers may be necessary to ensure everything is covered.

Frequently asked questions