When you're planning your wedding, photography is one of the most important investments you'll make. After all, once the day is over, your photos are the one thing that remains.
But here’s one question many couples don’t expect until they’re finalizing their photography package: Do you need a second shooter for a wedding? The answer depends on a few key factors like your timeline, guest count, and vision for your photos.
In this article, we’ll break down what a second shooter does, when you might need one, and how it can elevate your wedding photography experience - especially if you're planning a Colorado wedding with dynamic locations and mountain backdrops.
What Is a Second Shooter?
A second shooter is a professional photographer who teams up with your main photographer to help tell a fuller story of your wedding day - catching extra angles, candid shots, and events happening elsewhere at the same time.
They’re not an assistant - they are a skilled photographer, often handpicked by your lead photographer to match their style and workflow.
What Does a Second Shooter Do?
Here’s a look at what a second shooter typically contributes during your wedding:
- Photographs ceremony guests while the main photographer is focused on the couple
- Provides alternate angles of the ceremony, kiss, vows, and first look
- Assists with candid shots during cocktail hour, family formals, or group portraits
- Supports logistics, like gathering family members for group photos
- Helps cover large venues or split locations
If you're looking for second shooter wedding photography, you're likely looking for this kind of comprehensive storytelling - the kind that captures everything, everywhere, all at once.
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Why a Second Shooter Matters for Colorado Weddings
If you're getting married in Colorado, especially at a mountain venue or multi-location event, a second shooter is often a smart choice.
Why?
Split locations: Maybe the bride is getting ready in a cabin and the groom at a nearby lodge. Two photographers ensure nothing is missed.
Dramatic landscapes: One photographer can focus on sweeping scenic shots while the other captures intimate close-ups.
Unpredictable weather: If plans shift quickly due to snow, wind, or rain (all common in the Rockies!), a second shooter offers flexibility.
Adventurous elopements or hikes: In the great outdoors, a second shooter helps manage gear, trail logistics, and alternate angles during your trek.
At Kelly Photo & Design, we often recommend second shooters for weddings for Colorado couples who want complete coverage of their scenic day.
When You Might Not Need a Second Shooter
Consider the following situations:
- Small weddings or elopements with fewer than 25 guests
- Single-location events with a tight timeline and no separate getting-ready spaces
- Couples who prefer a more intimate, documentary-style approach without a lot of posed shots
- Tight budgets where photography time can be streamlined with clear planning
Benefits of Having a Second Shooter
Top reasons to hire a second wedding photographer:
1. More Moments Captured
While you’re walking down the aisle, the lead might be focused on you - but the second shooter can capture your partner’s reaction. These dual perspectives tell a fuller story.
2. Better Coverage of Candid Moments
While your lead photographer is doing formal portraits, the second can catch cocktail-hour candids, laughter, tears, and spontaneous hugs between friends.
3. Creative Angles and Artistic Variety
Two shooters can photograph the same moment - like your first kiss or first dance - from completely different perspectives, resulting in a more visually dynamic gallery.
4. Backup in Case of Emergencies
Although rare, unexpected issues like gear failure or illness can occur. Having a second shooter offers peace of mind and backup coverage.
5. Faster Delivery Turnaround
With more usable photos from multiple angles, editing can sometimes move faster - especially when working with a highly coordinated team like Kelly Photo & Design.
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When to Discuss a Second Shooter
You don’t need to decide immediately when booking. In fact, we recommend talking it through during your wedding timeline consultation. Factors to consider include:
- Number of guests
- Wedding venue layout
- Number of hours of coverage
- How important variety is to you
- If you're doing a first look or not
- Whether getting-ready time is split between locations
At Kelly Photo & Design, we offer the best wedding photography packages, so you can choose what fits your day best.
Second Shooter + Colorado = Magic
Colorado weddings are unique - whether you’re eloping on a mountaintop, saying “I do” at a ranch, or hosting a black-tie event in downtown Denver.
Having two photographers allows you to document both the grandeur and intimacy of your day without compromise.
Ready to Talk Wedding Coverage?
Let’s figure out what’s right for your wedding day - with or without a second shooter. At Kelly Photo & Design, we craft wedding photography experiences that match your love story, your style, and your priorities.
