Do You Need a Second Photographer? Here’s How to Decide

This is one of the most common questions my 2026 couples are ask me -
“Do we actually need a second photographer?”

The truth?
Not every wedding needs one…but some weddings massively benefit.

Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide.

**You Should Consider a Second Photographer If…**

1. You’re getting ready in different locations

If you want both morning prep stories captured, a second photographer makes it possible. However, if you’re getting ready in the same building, and you’re happy to have a half and half split; we can make that work. Just note - you’ll only have half the images of each!

Newlywed couple walking through a confetti tunnel outside Shustoke Barn, laughing and holding hands, surrounded by guests celebrating at their rustic barn wedding.

2. You have 100+ guests

More people = more moments happening at once.
A second photographer helps capture reactions, hugs, details, and everything in between. There’s no extra explanations needed for this.

Rustic wedding reception setup at Shustoke Barn with long candlelit tables, wooden beams, exposed brick walls, and warm fairy lights creating a romantic, intimate evening atmosphere.

3. You want LOTS of candid coverage

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

Reception mingling
Guest moments
Decor details
Venue scenes
Behind-the-scenes magic that you never even knew was happening!

Bride and groom kissing outside Shustoke Barn, holding drinks and a bold autumnal bouquet, standing in front of rustic red brick walls and wooden barn doors during their wedding portraits.

4. Your ceremony space makes it hard to move

Some churches or venues don’t allow photographers to move around. And, if I'm honest, I won’t be moving during your ceremony. I don’t want to take away from your guests experience of watching you and your partner say your vows, or have your first kiss as a married couple!

A second camera angle helps capture the full moment.

If you want to see your partners reaction to you walking down the aisle; get a second photographer. If you want both angles of your first kiss (E.g. The view of you kissing from the back, AND the view of you kissing with all your families faces in frame) ; get a second photographer.

Bride and groom embracing inside Shustoke Barn beside large arched windows, the bride wearing a faux fur jacket and the groom in a burgundy suit, surrounded by warm fairy lights and rustic wooden beams.

5. You want both sides of the aisle

I RE ENCOURAGE; Your partner’s reaction + your entrance = absolute gold.

Groom lifting and kissing his bride outside Shustoke Barn, her lace-backed wedding dress flowing as they embrace in front of arched wooden windows and warm fairy lights.

**You Probably Don’t Need a Second Photographer If…**

You’re having a small wedding (under 50 guests)
You’re both getting ready at the venue
You prefer a very simple, relaxed day
You want a purely documentary feel

I’ve photographed LOTS of weddings solo - and honestly, it’s perfect for intimate celebrations.

Candlelit wedding reception table setup at Shustoke Barn, featuring rustic wooden furniture, greenery with fairy lights, wine bottles, and intimate evening lighting.

My Honest Recommendation

For most 2026 weddings, here’s my rule of thumb:

Under 80 guests: One photographer is usually plenty
80–150 guests: A second photographer is a great addition
150+ guests: I highly recommend one

It’s all about how much coverage you want and how important it is to capture multiple angles of your story.

Bride and groom embracing outdoors at Shustoke Barn, captured in a romantic black-and-white portrait showing the bride’s tattooed back and lace gown as they hold each other closely.

Not sure what’s right for your day?

Send me your wedding size, timeline, and details, and I’ll give you an honest, personalised recommendation - no upselling, no pressure. I can also send you lots of example galleries with second shooters and without, so you can really see what your gallery would look like!

Let's chat