Is a Second Shooter Worth the Extra Cost for Your Wedding Day?
When I first started my wedding videography business, I was young, nervous and terrified of ruining someone’s big day; I always had a second shooter with me to share the load. As I became more confident in my skills and workflow, I transitioned to solo shooting. While I've become adept at capturing the essence of a wedding on my own, there are undeniable advantages to having a second shooter that can make a significant difference in your wedding film.
The Advantages of a Second Shooter
More Comprehensive Coverage
Multitasking Made Easy: With a second shooter, I can spend more quality time with the couple, capturing intimate moments and reactions, while my second shooter can set up for the ceremony or speeches. When on my own I have a cut off time at the brides house in the morning so I can get to the ceremony to set up, with a second shooter, I can leave at the same time as the bride. This division of labour ensures that no moment is missed, and everything flows smoothly.
Parallel Filming: We can work faster and more efficiently since both of us are capturing different angles and aspects simultaneously. This means less time spent repositioning and more time focusing on creating beautiful shots.
Enhanced Creativity and Equipment Use
More Equipment in Play: With two people, we can make better use of advanced equipment like drones and gimbals. While one videographer is capturing steady shots on the ground, the other can be getting stunning aerial footage or dynamic gimbal shots that add a cinematic flair to your wedding film.
Dynamic Angles: A second shooter allows for more dynamic and varied angles. During pivotal moments like the vows or the first dance, having multiple camera angles can make the final video more engaging and polished.
With two shooters it’s easier to setup multiple dynamic shots that I can cut between in the edit.
Better Coverage in Challenging Locations
Small Ceremony Locations: In intimate or space-constrained venues, moving around to get the perfect shot can be challenging. With two videographers, we can set up multiple camera positions, ensuring comprehensive coverage without having to disrupt the flow of the ceremony.
Simultaneous Moments: Weddings are filled with simultaneous events—while the bride is getting ready, the groom might be sharing a moment with his groomsmen. Having a second shooter means capturing both moments seamlessly, adding depth and richness to your wedding story.
While I am fully capable of delivering a beautiful wedding film as a solo videographer, having a second shooter can elevate the final product. The added coverage, creative opportunities, and logistical benefits make it a worthwhile investment for many couples. When planning your wedding, consider the value of those extra angles, the seamless coverage of key moments, and the enhanced storytelling a second shooter can provide.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your vision for your wedding film and your budget. Whether you choose to have a second shooter or not, my goal is to ensure your wedding day is captured beautifully, preserving the memories for years to come. If you have any questions or want to discuss the best option for your wedding, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!