Planning your wedding in Austin comes with a million exciting decisions—venue, décor, food, and of course, photography. One question we often get as an Austin wedding photographer is: “Do I need a second shooter for my wedding?”
The short answer? It depends. The longer answer? Having a second photographer can elevate your wedding photos in big ways—especially if you’re having a larger wedding, multiple locations, or want every little moment captured from every angle.
Let’s break down what a second shooter does and when it might be the perfect addition to your Austin wedding photography package.
What’s a Second Shooter?
A second shooter is a second professional photographer who works alongside your lead photographer to cover more ground on your wedding day. They capture different angles, candid moments, guest reactions, and assist with group shots. While the lead focuses on you as a couple, the second shooter can grab details, behind-the-scenes, and those emotional moments you may not even realize are happening.
Why You Might Want a Second Shooter for Your Austin Wedding
Here’s what you gain when you have two photographers covering your day:
1. More Photos, More Angles
Two photographers = more coverage. You’ll get wide shots and close-ups, front views and back views, emotional reactions and small details—all at once.
2. Both Partners Getting Ready? No Problem.
If you and your fiancé are getting ready in different locations (super common in Austin with venues like The Arlo, Villa Antonia, or Barr Mansion), a second shooter makes sure both stories are captured.
3. More Candid Moments
While the lead handles formal shots, the second can catch guest reactions, cocktail hour vibes, and spontaneous dance floor fun.
4. Better Coverage of Large Spaces
Venues with big grounds like Canyonwood Ridge or Ma Maison benefit from second shooters who can cover the action happening in different areas.
5. A Safety Net
Life happens. Having two photographers ensures nothing is missed, even if something unexpected pops up.
When You Should Consider a Second Shooter
- 100+ guests attending
- Large venues or multiple locations (hello, Austin traffic!)
- A tight timeline where events overlap
- You want both intimate moments and big reactions captured
- You're after creative, varied shots in your gallery
When One Photographer May Be Enough
- Small, intimate weddings (under 75 guests)
- Single location events with lots of time for coverage
- If you’re okay with a more focused, streamlined gallery
- You want to allocate budget to other priorities
We’re always transparent—if we think you’ll be fully covered with one photographer, we’ll tell you!
Real Austin Weddings with Second Shooters
At venues like The Arlo, Pecan Springs Ranch, and The Allan House, having a second shooter made a huge difference. While we were capturing the couple's vows, our second was photographing the guests’ joyful reactions, venue details, and all the little things that make the day uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts
Having a second shooter gives you the gift of a richer, fuller wedding gallery. It’s not always necessary—but for many Austin weddings, it’s the key to capturing both the planned and the spontaneous in the most complete way.
As your Austin wedding photographer, we’re here to help you decide what coverage works best for your day—and we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Curious if a second shooter is right for your Austin wedding?
Let’s chat! We’ll help you design the perfect photo experience for your big day.
FAQs
Q: What does a second shooter actually do?
A: They capture extra angles, candid moments, and help cover different locations or events happening at the same time.
Q: Is a second shooter included in your Austin wedding packages?
A: Some of our packages include a second shooter, or you can add one based on your needs.
Q: Will the second shooter’s photos match your style?
A: Yes! All second shooters we work with are carefully selected and trained to match our timeless, romantic style.
Q: How many extra photos will I get with two photographers?
A: You can expect several hundred additional images, depending on your coverage and timeline.
Q: Is a second shooter necessary for a small wedding?
A: Usually not, but it can still be a great option if you want both partners’ getting ready moments covered or more candid shots.
Q: Can a second shooter help with family and group portraits?
A: Absolutely! They can assist with organizing and capturing different angles for group shots.
Q: Will I meet the second shooter before the wedding?
A: Sometimes, but not always. We handle all the prep and ensure they know your timeline and style preferences.
Q: Does having a second shooter mean my wedding will be more intrusive?
A: Not at all! We work seamlessly together to stay in the background and let your day unfold naturally.
Q: Can a second shooter do video too?
A: Our second shooters focus on photography, but we can recommend excellent Austin videographers if you want video coverage too.
Q: How do I add a second shooter to my package?
A: Just reach out here, and we’ll walk you through the options!
