One of the questions I get asked all the time is:

“Do we need a second photographer?”

The answer isn’t always yes, but when it is yes, it can make a massive difference to the story of your day and what ends up in your final gallery.

Here’s when having a second photographer is absolutely worth it.

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You’re Having 100 Guests or More

If you’ve got 100+ guests, there is simply a lot happening at once.

A second photographer means:

• More candid moments

• More guest reactions

• More of your favourite people actually photographed

It’s not about doubling up - it’s about making sure no one important gets missed while I’m already in the middle of something else.

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You’re Getting Ready in Different Locations

If you’re getting ready in separate places, a second photographer avoids the classic scenario where:

• One person gets rushed coverage

• Or someone has to get ready three hours early so I can bounce between locations

With two photographers, both mornings are documented properly, calmly, and without stress, which sets the tone for the entire day.

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You Want Your Reception Details Captured Before Guests Arrive

Let’s be honest, your reception looks absolutely banging for about five minutes before guests arrive with handbags, jackets, prams and drinks and start moving things around.

While I’m with you, a second photographer can:

• Capture your styling exactly as you planned it

• Photograph florals, table settings and details untouched

• Preserve the vision you’ve been dreaming about for months

Think of them as a details ninja slipping in at just the right time.

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You Want Photos of Your Guests During Cocktail Hour

During cocktail hour, I’m usually off with you taking portraits - which means someone else needs to be capturing your guests soaking up the good vibes.

Without a second photographer, that job is often left to:

• Aunty Sue

• Her iPad

• And a lot of “everyone look over here!” energy

A second photographer captures your guests naturally - laughing, chatting, playing lawn games, sipping drinks and absolutely demolishing the canapés.

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You Care About the In-Between Moments

Some of the most meaningful moments happen when you’re not even in the room.

While I’m photographing the “traditional” parts of the day - signing the register, family photos, couple portraits - a second photographer might be capturing:

• Your Nan quietly crying in the seats

• Your flower girl doing something outrageously cute

• A spontaneous hug or laugh you didn’t even know happened

These are often the photos couples tell me they treasure the most.