While we typically always suggest 2 photographers, we also understand that based off our clients preference for coverage or for budget purposes, 1 photographer may make the most sense for your event. We have a couple of tips to ensure we are set up for success to provide you with the coverage you are expecting.
As we all know, one person cannot be in two places at the same time, so it will be important to understand what can and can’t be covered. Then, once you decide which portion you would like to have covered, it will be important to share that with your lead photographer. The key is to make sure everyone is on the same page with the same understanding before the big event versus after.
Pre-Ceremony – If you have a bridal party and are not doing a first look, it will be important to choose which side the lead photographer will cover. Or, as a work around, if the lead photographer is given an ample (typically 2+ hours) amount of time before the ceremony he/she can move from one location to the next, to cover both sets of the bridal party. If you are doing a first look, then both sides can be covered beforehand, again, assuming there is a good buffer of time (avg – 2.5 hours before ceremony).
Ceremony – It is important to note that although the photographer will be moving swiftly he/she will need to choose certain moments and angles to cover. For example: When you are first walking down the aisle, there may not be time to capture a reaction shot. We will, of course, do our very best. As well, the photographer will be more focused on the two of you, which means there will be less family/friend reaction shots overall.
Cocktail Hour – During the cocktail hour we are typically photographing the family portraits, bridal party and couples portraits. If we are capturing these images and that is our focus, there will most likely be no cocktail hour pictures of the guests or details of the reception area. As a work around, if you are wanting this covered, doing a first look or scheduling your cocktail hour for 90 minutes would be the solution.
Reception – During the reception our goal is typically to capture the key events while also getting reaction shots. We try to get everyone in the room photographed as we assume people have traveled from many different places. We just ask that it is understood that there will most likely be less guest reaction shots and we may not get everyone captured in a picture, as our main focus will be on the two of you. If there is a special group of people that you want to ensure is captured, it will be important to share that with your lead photographer and set aside time.
If you decide you would like to add a second photographer, please go to your Account Login and you can add it there. Thanks!
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