Do I need a Second Shooter for my Wedding?
One of the most popular questions I get asked from my wedding couples is “Do I need a second shooter?” In this blog post, I’ll be covering the reasons why you may, or may not need a second shooter to capture your wedding day.
What is a Second Shooter?
A Second Shooter in the context of wedding filmmaking is someone who assists the lead shooter in capturing footage. This footage may be captured with a different lens, from a different angle, or in a completely different location from the lead shooter. This is especially helpful in creating a more dynamic film.
For instance, while the lead is preparing cameras & audio for the ceremony, the second can continue capturing the day as it unfolds. The same goes for the lead getting setup for the reception while the second is capturing guests mingling and associating with one another. Not only does this give the lead the opportunity to properly setup their equipment to preserve your day in the highest quality, but it also reduces the risk of hiccups come speech & dance time with audio and lighting not being properly tested beforehand.
The Safety Net
During a wedding, there are rare circumstances in which cameras malfunction, media is corrupted, or a piece of equipment is dropped. This can be very disappointing to a couple, especially when you are paying your hard earned cash for a professional to preserve your wedding day. Of course, this doesn’t happen often, but in the odd case of it happening, a second shooter can be your saving grace.
If the lead shooters camera malfunctions during the ceremony, the second shooter can continue capturing, or vice versa (there are typically 2-3 cameras rolling during a ceremony, so it will always be covered, no matter if a camera malfunctions). If media is corrupted and a specific moment is lost on one camera, the second shooter will have it captured on their camera.
The One and Only Con
The one and only con there is to a second shooter, is the extra cost. However, the pros of having a second shooter far outweigh the investment you make. The cost of a second shooter is small compared to the benefits of having one.
The Clear Benefits
Dynamic film
More angles
Double the footage
Key moments covered
Two places covered simultaneously
