It’s a shared commitment to telling someone’s most meaningful story with both care and artistry.

I see our time together as a collaboration. Being part of a wedding photography team is about so much more than just showing up with a camera and capturing beautiful images. It’s about being present, being prepared, and supportive.

It’s a shared commitment to telling someone’s most meaningful story with both care and artistry.

Whether you’re joining me for the first time or returning for another season, this post is meant to give you a deeper look at the why behind how we do things. Because what we create together truly matters.

Thank you so much for teaming up with me! Just a quick reminder — some of the key things to keep in mind for this week are:

Sync your cameras — down to the second, please. This keeps everything smooth and consistent in post. Click HERE.
Arrive on time.
Take inspiration below on what to do during the groom getting getting-ready photos
Cocktail hour is my absolute favorite — candids are gold. Group shots are a must, and always full-body so we can capture the outfits ;) If you feel like you’ve taken too many, that’s not possible. Seriously, I really love cocktail hour.
We’ll tag-team wedding party photos: I’ll handle the group shots, and you’ll cover individual portraits — the bride with each bridesmaid, the groom with each groomsman, etc.
Make sure to check off your family photo list. It’s important to get them all. If something is missed, let me know before the ceremony so we can make a plan. Usually, while I’m photographing one side (like the groom’s family with the couple), you can grab the other, like a portrait of just the bride’s parents.
Lastly, I’ll be guiding you throughout the day on what to capture. Sometimes what I say might feel obvious, but it helps me to say it out loud and know it’s being covered.
Finally, when in doubt, focus on guest reactions — those genuine, unscripted moments are everything. If the majority of your gallery is filled with amazing guest candids (like actual reactions), that would be a dream!

Set the Tone

As wedding photographers, we’re often among the first vendors to greet the couple on their wedding day — and that moment matters. We help set the tone, not just with our presence, but with our energy. Be kind and attentive. I know it might be one of many weddings for us, but for them, it’s their one and only day.

I always provide a list of the groomsmen, and bonus points if you know the groom’s parents and the best man by name before you even walk through the door. Believe me, people remember that.

The day can be fast-paced and unpredictable. That’s where we come in—not just as photographers, but as steady, trusted people the couple can rely on. Our job isn’t just to photograph how the wedding looked, but to preserve how it felt.

We’ll tag-team wedding party photos: I’ll handle the group shots, and you’ll cover individual portraits — the bride with each bridesmaid, the groom with each groomsman, etc.

Below is what the photos should look like…

My Approach, Your Eye

What makes a great second shooter is someone who knows how to support the main photographer while bringing their own unique eye to the table.

My shooting style is a mix of heartfelt moments, editorial details, and timeless portraiture. I’m always on the lookout for tight hugs, emotional glances, and beautiful light. I love it when second shooters take initiative—finding new angles, experimenting with framing, and capturing those little moments that might otherwise go unnoticed.

You're a creative partner too! If you have an idea, don’t be shy!

Preparation is Part of the Job

Showing up prepared is non-negotiable. That means clean gear (clean lenses), cameras synced and set to RAW, backup cards packed, timeline reviewed, and a water bottle in your bag.

Little things make a big difference: being well-rested, dressing smartly and professionally, and understanding that you’re representing the brand throughout the day.

Please dress to blend in with the guests — cocktail attire is typically the expectation, so something clean, classic, and professional is perfect.

Groomsmen Photos

The groom and his crew deserve just as much camera time as the bridal party—and second shooters are often the ones in charge of capturing those relaxed, candid, and often hilarious moments during groom prep.

To Start the Day:

Most often, the second shooter will kick things off with the Groom and his Groomsmen while they're getting ready. Lighting is key. Guide the group toward the best available natural light, usually near a window. Please turn off orange-hued overhead lights and tidy up the space a bit if the background is cluttered. Create a setting that feels intentional, clean, and flattering.

Key Shots to Capture:

Groom’s flatlay details (watch, tie, cufflinks, cologne, etc.)
Natural interactions: laughter, toasts, conversations, final pep talks
Staged prep moments: putting on his jacket, fixing his tie, buttoning up, tying shoes, adjusting a watch or cufflinks
Groom Portraits– Half-body, full-body, and sitting down. Get the safe shots and then a few artsy ones.
If the groom’s parents are present, involve them in photos! For example, Dad helping him with his tie or mom helping with the boutonnière.

Know When to Lead, Know When to Support

Sometimes we’ll shoot together, and other times you’ll be covering moments solo. When that happens, start with the safe shots first — the essential moments. Once you’ve got those, feel free to get creative and tell the story in a way that feels both intuitive and artistic.

When we’re working side by side, I’ll often focus on the couple and their immediate family. Meanwhile, you can capture the candid moments, guest reactions, and environmental frames. I don’t need the same shot twice ;) it’s about creating a well-rounded, story-rich gallery that captures the day from every angle.

But seriously… when in doubt, always capture the guests’ reactions.

Professionalism is crucial. No alcohol, no distractions, and keep phone usage to a minimum. However, do keep your phone on you, especially before the ceremony, as I’ll be communicating frequently during that time.

And remember, whatever the parents want, they get! They’re my clients too.

Move with grace. Be creative. Be supportive. Be present. And drink water!

When we do that, we don’t just deliver beautiful images, we help create a wedding experience that feels effortless, joyful, and true to the couple we’re there for.