Do You Really Need a Second Photographer at Your Wedding?
Do You Really Need a Second Photographer at Your Wedding?
A Wedding Photographer’s Guide for Couples in Montreal & Across Quebec
If you're planning your wedding in Montreal, Bromont, the Eastern Townships, or anywhere across Quebec, you've probably come across this question:
“Should we hire a second photographer?”
It's a valid consideration. More coverage sounds great — but is it really necessary?
As experienced wedding photographers, our honest answer is: not usually.
In this post, we’ll break down the real reasons couples think they need a second shooter, and why — with a seasoned pro — you can save that money and still get the photos that matter most.
What Does a Second Photographer Typically Do?
A second photographer’s role is often described like this:
Cover the ceremony from another angle
Capture candid guest reactions
Photograph the groom while the lead photographer is with the bride
Provide backup coverage "just in case"
But here’s the truth: most of those moments can be captured by one experienced photographer who knows how to anticipate them.
When You might Need a Second Photographer
Let’s use one of the most emotional moments of the day: the ceremony.
The bride walks down the aisle. The groom's eyes fill with emotion. Parents tear up. The crowd leans in. There’s so much happening — and you only get one chance to capture it all.
This is where a second photographer truly shines.
While the lead photographer focuses on the bride and groom — the expressions, the reactions, the kiss — a second shooter can focus entirely on the secondary players:
The parents wiping away tears
The flower girl peeking up at the aisle
A sibling watching with pride
The laughter, the glances, the unposed magic in the crowd
A second shooter can help ensure nothing gets missed, especially during highly emotional or fast-paced moments.
But here’s the key: with a seasoned pro behind the camera, you still get the shots that matter most — even without a second shooter.
We’re not randomly firing off shots. We’re watching, anticipating, and positioning ourselves to tell the full story. We’ll focus on the bride’s entrance, then pivot just in time to catch mom’s reaction. We'll capture the first kiss, then swing to get the cheering guests.
It’s not just about coverage — it’s about experience, instinct, and being fully present. That’s why over 95% of our weddings are photographed solo by Randy, with nothing missed.
So yes — a second shooter adds value, especially for larger or more complex weddings.
But for many couples, you can confidently skip the extra cost when you're working with a photographer who knows how to be in the right place at the right time. Every time.
Save the Budget for What Matters More
We’re all about honest advice. If your budget is tight, we’d rather see you:
Invest in a beautiful wedding album
A wedding day content creator
Book an engagement session to get comfortable in front of the camera
Hire a great DJ like DJ Shane to keep the party alive
A second shooter can cost hundreds more — but with an experienced pro, you’re already in great hands with just one shooter.
Final Thoughts
So, do you need a second wedding photographer in Montreal, Bromont, or anywhere in Quebec?
Not if you hire someone who knows what they’re doing.
At Mandy & Randy Weddings, we’ve photographed hundreds of weddings across Quebec solo — and we know how to capture the key moments while making space for emotion, spontaneity, and beauty. And we return your wedding gallery in just 5 days!
Our wedding collections won’t oversell you on something you don’t need — just honest, intentional photography that tells the story of your day.
🎁 Need help finding the right photographer?
Download our free checklist on how to choose the right wedding photographer.
📸 Ready to work together? Contact us to see if your date is available.