The Unsung Hero of Wedding Photography: Embracing the Role of a Second Shooter
- Craig Hickey Photography
- May 8, 2025
- 4 min read
Updated: Dec 10, 2025
Why Having a Second Shooter at Your Wedding Is a Game Changer
When you think about your wedding photos, you probably imagine the big moments. Walking down the aisle, that first kiss, the confetti, the dance floor chaos and all the emotional bits in between. But weddings are packed with tiny blink and you miss it moments too. The quick glances, the background laughter, the reactions you never get to see on the day.
A second shooter helps capture all of that.Two photographers means more story, more emotion and more memories without you even realising it is happening.
Here is a relaxed look at why I often recommend one and how a second shooter can take your gallery to another level.
What a Second Shooter Actually Does
A second shooter is another professional photographer who joins me for your day. They are not an assistant or someone in training. They are an experienced photographer who knows exactly what they are doing.
While I am photographing the main action, they are free to roam. They catch the behind the scenes moments you might miss. The cheeky looks, the heartfelt reactions and the natural moments that happen in between the bigger scenes.
Why I Recommend Having One
Weddings move fast. One moment you are saying your vows, the next you are sipping a drink and watching someone on the dance floor attempt a bold move they will probably regret later.
Here is why a second shooter makes a big difference.
More coverage and more moments
Two of us means you get both sides of the story. One can be with you in the morning, the other with your partner. One can be close to the action during the ceremony, the other can capture your guests reactions at the same time.
Extra candid magic
Some of the best photos are the ones no one expects. While I am doing portraits or group photos, my second shooter is out catching real laughter, hugs and brilliant spontaneous moments.
A smoother workflow
Having another photographer makes everything run more smoothly. They help with lenses, lighting, timing and everything in between. It keeps the day flowing naturally.
Timing, Light and Patience
These three things are a big part of great photography and a second shooter helps cover them all.
Timing
They can be ready for that teary speech reaction or the big just married smile while I am capturing a different angle.
Light
Golden hour, low light moments on the dance floor or tricky indoor setups. A second shooter helps us handle it quickly and beautifully.
Patience
Some emotional moments happen quietly in the background. With two of us watching for them, they are far more likely to be caught.
How We Work Together on the Day
We go over the timeline and any must have photos before the wedding so we know exactly what to expect. On the day we move around with ease, communicate quietly and stay out of the way so you and your guests can relax and enjoy yourselves.
Making the Most of Golden Hour
Golden hour is that warm, dreamy light just before sunset and having a second shooter makes it even better.
One of us can capture wide scenic shots and the other can focus on close up moments. They help with quick light tweaks, keeping the session relaxed and making sure you look and feel your best without rushing away from your guests for too long.
Real Moments Over Stiff Poses
My style as a Leicester wedding photographer is simple. Real moments over stiff posing. Honest storytelling over forced shots. A second shooter adds even more depth to that.
While I work on group photos or couple portraits, they can focus on:
guest reactions
parents emotions
children being chaotic
laughter on the sidelines
dance floor energy
Together we blend into the background so the day unfolds naturally and nothing feels forced.
Midlands Venues and Maximum Coverage
We are lucky to have incredible venues across the Midlands. Barns, manors, outdoor spaces and more. A second shooter helps make the most of them by catching multiple angles, indoor and outdoor moments and all the details you spent months planning.
No beautiful spot is missed.
So, Is It Worth It
Yes. For £350 you can add a full day second shooter and get more variety, more memories and more peace of mind. Couples always tell me how glad they are that they added one.
Final Thoughts
Your wedding day is filled with moments. Some planned, some completely unexpected. A second shooter helps make sure none of them slip away unnoticed. It is not just about having more photos. It is about having a fuller story of your day.
If you want to chat about adding a second shooter to your package, just let me know.
FAQs
What does a second shooter do
They capture extra angles, reactions and honest moments. It means both of you have your stories photographed at the same time.
Is a second shooter worth the cost
If you want more depth in your gallery, yes. My full day second shooter is 350 pounds.
Do I need to organise anything
No, I sort everything for you.
Will they get in the way
No. We work smoothly and quietly so your day flows naturally.
Can they help with portraits
Yes. While I focus on you both, they capture everything happening around us including reactions and details.
Think we might be a good fit. Press the button to see if your date is still open.
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