Over the last few years, the wedding industry has seen a boom in the popularity of wedding videos.
As the use of social media grows – and the average wedding cost increases – so does couples’ desire to have a visual memento of their wedding day, so they can relive it in years to come. That’s why more and more couples are opting to hire a wedding videographer to record their nuptials or at least attempt a homemade version.
The rise of visual social media platforms like Instagram and YouTube means more couples are looking for shareable videos that highlight all the best parts of their day. And with more couples choosing to place their wedding under a social media embargo, guests will want to be fully focused on your ceremony. That’s where videographers come in – they’ll provide you with a professionally shot and edited video that you can share online and with friends and family, so they can relive your wedding day with you.
Wedding Photos Vs Wedding Videos
When you’ve already hired a photographer, it can be difficult to justify adding a wedding videographer into the mix. After all, professional photographers create beautiful images that also capture the magic of your wedding – and hiring a videographer, in addition, can soon ramp up the costs. But while photographs are definitely the more traditional option, videography isn’t simply an alternative.
A wedding video will capture the atmosphere of your day in a way that even the most stunning photos can’t. They can incorporate music – from your first dance song to harpists and wedding bands – as well as your speeches, readings, and vows. A wedding video allows you to relive the entire day – from the moment you walk down to the aisle, to your first dance as a married couple.
It may be a cliche, but it’s true that your wedding day is a whirlwind. Wedding videos give you the chance to witness parts of the day you might have missed. From an impromptu dance-off to your dad shedding a quiet tear during the ceremony, a wedding video will highlight the most important – and unexpected – moments of your wedding. Even the ones you missed the first time around.
How Do Wedding Videos Work?
Most wedding videographers have a certain style, so you’ll need to shop around to see the kind of video vibe that suits you. These can range from fly-on-the-wall documentary style videos, to staged films based around the story you want to create. When you know what kind of look and feel you’re after, you’re ready to contact the videographers you’ve shortlisted.
Typically, you’ll discuss your requirements with the videographer beforehand, just as you would with a photographer. Your videographer will agree with you which parts of the wedding they’ll cover, and the format of the finished video. Different videographers offer different packages – some include a full cut of your ceremony and speeches, while others provide a short highlights reel or interviews with your guests.
After the wedding, you can expect to wait up to 2 months for the final video to be delivered. Professional videographers will edit, colour grade, and design the soundtrack to your video. It takes a little time to achieve perfection, so be patient – your video will be worth the wait!
What To Consider When Deciding To Hire A Wedding Videographer
Hiring a wedding videographer definitely shouldn’t be done on a whim. There are a few vital things to consider before you make a decision.
- Budget. Wedding videographers aren’t cheap – so you’ll need to decide if you can stretch your budget to accommodate this.
- Space. Some venues have certain rules about what can and can’t be filmed in their space. Make sure you check filming rules with your venue before you put down a deposit.
- Guests. It’s important to check that your guests – particularly your wedding party – are happy to be filmed, so your videographers don’t encounter any unexpected objections.
Wedding Videos For Camera Shy Brides & Grooms
If you like the idea of a wedding video, but you’re not a natural in front of the camera, don’t worry – there’s a videographer out there for you! Most videographers have encountered camera shy couples, so they’ll be able to put you at ease both beforehand and on the day itself.
If you don’t relish the idea of being filmed, it’s a good idea to opt for a documentary-style video. This means your videographer can remain discreet throughout the day, so you may not even notice them. And while you’re concentrating on having a fabulous day, they’ll be capturing every special moment – even the ones you miss.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A Wedding Videographer?
Like many wedding-related expenses, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to pricing for wedding videography. The cost will depend on a number of factors. This includes the duration and location of your wedding – London is typically more expensive than elsewhere in the UK – as well as the time of year and the video package you choose. Multiple camera operators tend to produce a more professional-looking video, but can also ramp up the cost.
Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from £700 to £2000 for a professional wedding videography service. This can add a considerable chunk to your wedding budget – so you’ll need to consider how important this memento is before you commit to shelling out this kind of cash.
How To Find A Fantastic Wedding Videographer
Wedding videos are a fantastic way to keep a record of one of the most special days of your life. If a wedding video has gone from nice-to-have to must-have for you, it’s time to start shopping around. There are lots of wedding videographers out there – and when you’re checking out their work, it’s easy to get caught up in the magic of the wedding you’re watching. Knowing what to look for can be tricky, so check out our guide to choosing a wedding videographer.
For more ideas and inspiration on capturing your wedding on camera, take a look at all our wedding photography and video articles.
