Two is better than one, right? That’s why you are getting married! At Elevate Photography, we are often asked “Do you think I should have two photographers?” Unless the couple is eloping or having a wedding with less than 50 guests our answer is a resounding “Yes!” Here is why:
More Candid Photos of Family and Friends
Weddings provide a rare opportunity to gather the most important people in your lives and celebrate. While the lead photographer’s job is to focus on the couple, wedding party and immediate family, a second photographer has the freedom to find fun or emotional moments throughout the day and document them, whether it is a family friend or a cousin. Countless times, couples have told us that they treasured a particular candid photo of a grandparent who passed away or a flower girl who is now a teenager.
Bride and Groom’s reaction to Seeing Each other for the First Time
There is something magical about the moment that a bride and groom see each other for the first time on their wedding day. The raw emotion is palatable as the couple contemplates their lives together. By documenting the bride and groom’s reaction from different perspectives to that special moment, couples get to re-live one of the most important moments of their lives.
Two Unique Perspectives
Having two photographers means getting two artistic interpretations of the same event. At Elevate, our second photographers are all amazing artists in their own right giving couples two different, yet beautiful perspectives. Second shooters also have the opportunity to push their creativity – selecting a different lens or using the light in a unique way.
Different Locations During the Ceremony
Having two photographers means we can literally be at two places at once. The lead photographer can be photographing the bride walking into the ceremony while the second shooter is capturing her dress flowing down the aisle from behind. One photographer can be focused on the bride’s reaction while the groom says his vows, while the other one is focused on his parents. It really allows us to tell a much deeper story of your wedding ceremony.
Bride & Groom Getting Ready Shots
Typically, the lead photographer shoots the bride getting ready with her mom and bridesmaids while the groom and his entourage are preparing for the big day. Having a second photographer means that the couple also gets photos of the groom joking with his friends, enjoying a moment of quiet reflection or learning to tie a bow tie. We think he is important too!
Great Candids of Wedding Party
The lead photographer’s job is to capture the overall shot, especially when it comes to the wedding party. While the lead is capturing the overall group, the second shooter can focus on individuals. This allows the viewer to really get in there and experience the fun and joy of the wedding day.
Reception Details
It is the lead photographer’s job to get family photos immediately following the ceremony. This is also the best time to photograph your reception details because the room is typically finished for dinner. The second photographer can be documenting all the hard work and thought you put into the reception details before their guests and purses are in the way.
On-Site Backup
All of Elevate Photography’s lead photographers and second shooters are required to have back up gear, because stuff happens. A battery can go dead, a light can burn out. Having a second shooter means that special moments from the day won’t be missed because one photographer can cover for the other until the situation is reminded.
Elevate Photography is a team of Colorado wedding photographers who are passionate about what they do – taking great photos, every time. Elevate’s creative and photojournalistic style combined with a commitment to customer service ensure amazing images of the most important day of your life. We are based in Denver, Colorado, but are happy to travel to beaches, mountain tops, or ice castles to photograph your wedding.