Why A Single Photographer May Be Just What You Need
Deciding whether to hire a second photographer for your wedding can depend on various factors. While having a second photographer can offer benefits such as multiple angles or covering different locations at the same time, there are situations where it might not be essential. Also, I want to bring up the idea that, “More does not necessarily mean better.” Having one photographer with experience and skill in the chosen field will most certainly produce better results than two or three photographers who are less skilled/experienced and don’t work well together. Here are some reasons why a single photographer may be more than enough for your wedding:
Intimate or small-scale weddings - For smaller weddings with fewer guests and a more intimate setting one skilled photographer may be more than enough to capture everything you’re looking for.
Budget - Hiring a single photographer is generally more cost-effective than having two photographers. If you're working within a tight budget, moving funds to other essential aspects of your wedding might make more sense to you.
Simple timeline - If your wedding day timeline is straightforward without simultaneous events happening at different locations, one photographer could effectively cover the entire event.
Photographer's experience and skill - This is a big one and should be something you really ask questions about when speaking to the photographers you’re considering. An experienced and versatile photographer may be adept at managing various angles, moments and lighting situations alone without the need for a second photographer.
Preference for a specific style - Some couples prefer the cohesive style and vision of a single photographer throughout the wedding rather than integrating different perspectives from multiple people. Unless the primary and secondary photographer work together on a regular basis and in a consistent way, there will likely be differences in the way images are taken.
Less intrusive presence - One photographer might be less intrusive during intimate moments, allowing the couple and guests to feel more at ease without multiple camera lenses around.
Venue size - If the wedding venue is relatively small or has limited access points, one photographer can efficiently cover the entire space without missing important moments.
Personal comfort - Some couples might prefer a more intimate experience with just one photographer, feeling more comfortable and relaxed without additional people showing up on the day. Personally, I like to create solid connections with my couples so they know who I am and what I’m about before I ever show up to their wedding. I wouldn’t introduce someone completely new to them and expect them to open up in the same way they would for me.
Photographer preference - Some photographers may prefer to work by alone. Their level of experience and way of working may actually be encumbered by a second photographer. We all work in different ways and do our best work when given the freedom to act according to what we know and trust.
The decision to hire a second photographer ultimately depends on your preferences, the complexity of your event and the price point you’re looking to stay within. If this is something you and your partner are thinking about I encourage you to discuss your expectations with your photographer to see what the options are and if it’s something you ultimately want to move forward with in the end.