Assistant photographer vs. second shooters. Let’s talk about it. 

Last week I discussed how a KLP Wedding Experience includes an hour of consolation time. This week I figured I would continue that theme and talk about another addition, the assistant shooter, and what that means for how a wedding package can look.

I have talked about second shooters in the past and why I do not include one standard in my packages. As I continue to grow and evolve as I learn more and more about the needs of my clients, some things need to change. For this reason, those who inquire will see another new element to the package options: An assistant photographer.

HOW IS THIS ASSISTANT PHOTOGRAPHER DIFFERENT THAN A SECOND SHOOTER?

I see an assistant photographer as different than a second because their primary task is not to shoot; they are also there to serve. Rather than always having a camera in hand, an assistant shooter can also be expected to fluff dresses and get water. They will also assist the lead photographer (me) with some of my duties, such as changing film when I shoot hybrid or have the photo booth in use. There will be high traffic times of the day–such as during family formals, the ceremony, and the receptions—where there will be shooting duties.

WHY NOT JUST ADD A SECOND SHOOTER?

I still believe in my original reasons why I have added and assistant instead of a second. They might be obtrusive, they can be a liability, and they do not guarantee extra images. But I have learned something over the last four years: Sometimes we all need an extra set of hands. Going into Year Five, I want to provide that to my couples and their families. An assistant photographer allows me to have and extra set of hands with shooting ability. It allows the best of both worlds when each is needed most.