Do you need a second photographer or second shooter for your child's Bar or Bat Mitzvah? | Pop Color Events | Adding a Pop of Color to Bar & Bat Mitzvahs in DC, MD & VA

Ask the Planner: Do I Need a Second Photographer?

Hi Brynne,

My photographer is telling me that I should add a second photographer (he actually called it a second shooter) for my son’s Bar Mitzvah. I’ve never heard of this. Is he trying to upsell me or do I actually need one?

Thanks!

A second photographer, also called a second shooter, is nice to have, but not always necessary for your child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah. Here are some scenarios in which I would ALWAYS recommend a second shooter:

  • If you have a lot of guests or a large event venue. One photographer can only capture so much, but two photographers can cover more ground and ensure that you get photos of all of your guests.
  • If you have a lot of extended family members. A second photographer can help to expedite posed family photos. They also get an alternate viewpoint, like the proud grandma kvelling while watching her grandchild pose for photos.
  • If you have limited time. For instance, if your service ends immediately prior to your party, having a second photographer will allow you to get photos of the party while also getting posed photos of the immediate family.
  • If you want to get multiple angles of the same moment. For instance, if you want to get a photo of your child going up in the chair during the hora, but also a photo of mom and dad beaming from below.
  • If you have a lot of details. A second photographer can ensure there is plenty of time to get photos of every last detail.

There are some photographers who include a second shooter in their packages, so be sure to double check! It’s always nice to get an alternate point of view, so if you can swing a second photographer, it’s definitely worth it.

Need help selecting a photographer? Pop Color Events can help!