10 reasons NOT to have a wedding videographer
Congratulations on your engagement! Planning your wedding is an incredibly exciting time, and the journey ahead will be filled with countless decisions that shape your day into something truly unforgettable. Where will you celebrate – at home or abroad? Which venue will set the perfect tone? Should you enlist a planner, and how will you allocate your budget for your dress, flowers, photography, and more?
And then there’s the question many couples ponder: should you invest in a wedding videographer?
Since first writing this blog 2016, so much has changed in the world of weddings. As trends evolve and expectations shift, it’s my duty to ensure you, today’s couples, are fully informed.
In updating this post, I want to guide you through the considerations that matter most, helping you make the best decision for your wedding day. After all, your wedding deserves nothing less than timeless, unforgettable memories.
“Not having a videographer is today’s bride’s biggest regret”
This quote is from a bridal magazine almost ten years ago, but does it still stand? There must be many reasons why you shouldn’t have a videographer?
Even in today’s tech-driven, online-focused world, hiring a videographer often remains one of the final decisions couples make when planning their wedding—and typically only if there’s enough budget left over.
There are many myths and misconceptions about having a videographer at your wedding and these can definitely lead to the decision not to have one.
So let me help you with that! And let me also offer you some tips on how to make the best decisions for your day.
1) Videographers are expensive and an expense I can do without
Let’s face it. Budget, or lack of a good videographer budget, is often the reason why a couple doesn’t book one. Of course it goes without saying that ‘you get what you pay for’ and so the more you invest, the more experienced and skilled your videographer will be and the better your film will be.
I sometimes get enquiries well ahead of time and when I offer a quote I get told by some couples that they can’t afford me. But, of course, if they prioritised their wedding film… one of the only things they will have to remember their day by… then of course they could make it happen.
I won’t go into detail now about why you should invest wisely in a videographer once you’ve decided to have one but I have written a blog post all about that.
But even with a limited budget, investing in a professional over an amateur is always a much wiser decision. More on that later…
TIP: Ask if your videographer offers a payment plan to allow you to pay over time. I even offer my clients the chance to pay 50 per cent before the wedding day and 50 per cent afterwards, to allow those who are having money as a wedding gift, to get their funds together.
2) A New Consideration: The Rise of Content Creators
In recent years, another factor has entered the conversation—the rise of social media wedding content creators. This is a new trend that directly relates to the topic of budgeting for a videographer. Content creators offer an alternative that may seem more accessible and affordable.
These creators specialise in delivering short, shareable clips optimised for platforms like Instagram and TikTok. However, while they cater to immediate gratification and trending formats, they don’t focus on the timeless storytelling that a professional videographer brings to your wedding day. Unlike a content creator, a videographer captures the depth of emotions, authentic connections, and meaningful moments, crafting a cinematic film that you’ll cherish for years to come.
I’ve explored this topic in more detail in my blog, “Unveiling the Trend: The Rise of Social Media Wedding Content Creators”, where I delve into the key differences and what to consider when deciding between the two.
TIP: If you love the idea of both, consider a combined approach. Many videographers, including myself, now offer additional content creation services alongside cinematic wedding films to ensure you have the best of both worlds.
3) Videographers get in the way and aren’t Discreet like photographers
It used to be that couples worried having both a photographer and a videographer at their wedding would be too much. Now, with the introduction of content creators, this concern is even more valid. Having too many professionals capturing your day can feel overwhelming and is an important consideration when planning your wedding.
It also used to be the case when videographers filmed on large video cameras with huge tripods and sliders. But this idea is a common misconception these days. Of course, there are videographers who still use the older style camera equipment, but it’s rare or it’s for large-scale weddings that are more like productions rather than actual weddings.
These days, most videographers use DSLR and mirrorless cameras, the same as your photographer’s. Many film handheld as well, apart from for the ceremony and speeches, so other than the microphone on top of the camera, there’s little to distinguish between a photographer and videographer.
As for being discreet—that’s all in the filming style of your videographer but very much achievable. I’ve been at many weddings where the celebrant or priest is more distracted and sometimes annoyed by the photographer moving around all the time with a loud, distracting shutter (clicking) noise going off constantly
TIP: When deciding on who to have capturing your day, consider how well your photographer, videographer, and any additional content creators will work together. Ask how they plan to collaborate to ensure a seamless experience without disrupting the flow of your day. A good team should blend into the background, capturing moments without taking over.
Our unobtrusive approach allows us to discreetly capture every moment as it naturally unfolds, preserving the integrity of your day and transforming it into a living, lasting memory. It’s about more than just filming your wedding; it’s about being part of the moments that matter and capturing them with the heart and soul they deserve.
4) My priest might not like my ceremony being filmed or might charge me
I’ve been filming weddings since 2013 and only once have I had an issue with a priest refusing me to film at the front of the church. I have however, on several occasions, been in church where a photographer has been told to stand at the back to avoid being a distraction. So it’s just not the norm for whoever is holding your ceremony to refuse it to be filmed.
However there may be restrictions in terms of filming the choir or organist and sometimes even the sermon. But there are laws that regulate this and in most cases they don’t apply and work in YOUR favour.
TIP: Check with your priest / venue etc about permissions and then seek advice from your videographer.
Also check how they would deal with this situation. I ALWAYS speak to all the suppliers I am working with ahead of a wedding and so there are no surprises on the day. I have never turned up to a church wedding without having spoken to the priest first and introduced myself and discussed positioning on the day so again, it’s about working together to achieve the best results.
5) I can get my friends to film my wedding, after all everyone can film these days
It’s true – these days, almost everyone considers themselves a content creator. With the incredible quality of iPhones, GoPros, and handheld gimbals, it’s tempting to think your friends and family can capture your wedding just as well as a professional. But here’s the thing: while anyone can press record, it takes skill, experience, and an understanding of storytelling to create a film that’s as timeless and meaningful as your wedding day. Without that expertise, you might end up with footage that feels more like an amateur home video than a cinematic keepsake.
Some couples even opt for companies that send out cameras for guests to film the day, with the footage later edited into a wedding video. While it sounds innovative, the reality is often underwhelming. As the saying goes, you can’t make a purse out of a sow’s ear!
And while DIY filming might seem similar to hiring a social media content creator, the difference is vast. Content creators may focus on trendy, shareable clips, but they still lack the ability to craft a full, emotional narrative that captures your love story in all its depth and beauty.
Let’s not forget editing – this is where the true artistry lies. No automated software or amateur hand can create a well-produced film that captures the sights, sounds, and emotions of your wedding day while telling your story in a way that resonates for years to come.
TIP: Make your wedding an ‘unplugged wedding,’ asking your family, friends, and guests to put away their phones, iPads, and cameras during key moments like the ceremony or speeches – or even the entire day.
This not only ensures everyone stays fully present in the moment but also allows your professional photographer and videographer to do their job without distractions. Plus, you won’t risk having your wedding day shared online before you’ve had the chance to see it yourself!
6) I don’t want my wedding film to become a photo and film shoot
I hear you—and I’ve got your back. Weddings should never feel like a film set or a photoshoot. They are about love, celebration, and connection, not just curated moments for the camera. Yet, with so much emphasis on capturing picture-perfect imagery these days, it’s easy to feel like your day is being taken over by staged shots.
At Story Of Your Day, we are Purveyors of Time Travel through Cinematic Storytelling, meaning we prioritise capturing the authentic, soulful moments that naturally unfold throughout your day. Our approach is about allowing your wedding to happen organically, without constant interruptions or direction. The spontaneous laughter, the unguarded emotions, the quiet moments you didn’t even notice at the time—these are the moments that make your story unique, and they’re the moments we treasure most.
While the current trend in wedding films often embraces a highly stylised, ‘perfume-advert’ aesthetic, we believe your wedding day should feel genuine and undirected. We work seamlessly with photographers and other professionals to ensure the day runs smoothly, capturing the beauty and emotion without ever making you feel like you’re on a film set.
TIP: When planning your timeline, prioritise moments for you and your partner to simply be present and enjoy the day. Choose professionals who understand how to capture the story as it naturally unfolds, ensuring your wedding remains about the experience, not just the imagery.
7) I’ll never watch my wedding film
… no one ever said! However good your wedding film is I can assure you, you WILL watch it.
Not once, not twice, but countless times over the days, weeks, months and years. Not only that, but gone are the days when you have to watch your film on VHS, DVD or even Blu-ray with just your close friends and family. Now you can share your wedding film trailer online over social media, sending direct links over email and even just one your phone or iPad.
Once I have sent Instagram teasers and wedding film trailers to my clients I can see how many views the films have had. It’s often thousands of times in the first week. But don’t worry if that isn’t your style, like myself, most other videographers can password protect films to limit the people who watch your films down to those you select.
TIP: The longer your wedding film, the least likely it’ll be watched all the way through or even at all. So make sure, if you’ve decided to go down the longer ‘docu-edit’ style, you still ask for a trailer as that’s the film that’s likely to be viewed the most as it’s the most ‘digestible’ for those of your friends who are not 100 per cent invested in watching an hour-long film of your wedding.
I offer a range of different edits for my clients and although my longest films are a cinematic style and are up to 20 minutes long, I also provide a trailer of about 3-4 minutes with the choice of having 1’00 Instagram sneak peek films too.
8) I am worried about how I will sound or look like in a film
This might sound like a small concern, but it’s one I completely understand. Even as a former broadcaster for the BBC, I remember feeling uncomfortable when I first heard my own voice during my media training. These days, most of us are more accustomed to seeing and hearing ourselves on social media, but that doesn’t mean the idea of being filmed on such an important day is any less daunting.
Whether it’s how you look in candid shots or a worry about being filmed before you feel ready, this is where working with a professional videographer makes all the difference. Experienced videographers work discreetly, capturing you at your best without constant closeups or staged direction. They know how to blend into the background, allowing the day to unfold naturally while ensuring every meaningful moment is preserved beautifully.
This concern is also one of the reasons I don’t advocate for content creators on your wedding day. While their focus is often on producing real-time clips for social media, you have far less control over what is filmed, how it’s shared, and when it’s published. With a dedicated wedding videographer, your film is crafted thoughtfully, with attention to every detail and your preferences, ensuring it reflects your vision perfectly.
TIP: Talk to your videographer ahead of the day about how they approach filming, especially during key moments like getting ready. Discuss timings and preferences to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera, with fewer closeups until you’re fully ready. A good videographer will prioritise your comfort while capturing the magic of the day.
9) I am too shy to be filmed and would feel awkward all day
t’s natural to feel a bit apprehensive about being filmed, especially if you’re worried about being overly conscious of a videographer capturing your every move. However, with the rise of social media, people are becoming much more accustomed to seeing and hearing themselves on video. That said, your comfort level on the day really comes down to the style of the videographer you choose.
As mentioned earlier, not all wedding films have to feel like photo or film shoots. Some videographers may direct or even stage moments, which can feel intrusive for a couple looking for something more natural. Others might prefer to get up close and personal, blending into the day but still being very visible.
An experienced videographer, however, will be discreet at all times. The goal is for you to forget they’re even there. For example, last year I filmed a stunning three-day wedding celebration at La Fortaleza in Majorca. By the end of day two—the actual wedding day—the father of the bride approached me and asked where I’d been. He hadn’t noticed me filming at all up until that moment!
Choosing a videographer whose style aligns with your personality and vision is key. At Story Of Your Day, my approach is to let the day unfold naturally, capturing authentic, unscripted moments without interference. This way, you can enjoy your wedding without feeling like you’re under a spotlight while still knowing those beautiful moments are being preserved forever.
TIP: However big or small your wedding is, you want your videographer to be discreet and unnoticed as much as possible. Check with your videographer how they will achieve this on the day to ensure you enjoy your wedding without any intrusion.
10) My photographer can capture the day perfectly well
YES … but to some extent. I always recommend to my clients, even those considering not having a photographer, to have one. BUT if a picture speaks a thousand words then imagine what a film can do?
While a photographer capture a moment in time, an experienced videographer brings those moments back to life and brings your day back to life. You should have a photographer but you cannot compare a photographer to film when it comes to capturing emotions in real time on film.
It’s my belief that a photographer and videographer should complement each other both in what they capture and what they produce at the end. For me it’s about capturing a story and I’m less interested in capturing the details (like the dress, flowers, rings and shoes for instance) when that’s the photographer’s role. I am there to tell a story so I concentrate on identifying and capturing that element to give you much more than a wedding film but the story of your day.
TIP: Make sure your photographer and videographer can work well together so you get different coverage from each on and not the same moments in stills and in film – that would be pretty pointless.
11) I’m having a destination wedding and don’t want to pay the travel costs for a videographer
If you’re getting married in a country where the native language is your own, booking a local videographer might seem like an option. However, it’s important to remember that filming styles and trends differ greatly from country to country. A videographer who shares your language not only better understands the spoken moments of your day but also appreciates the nuances and cultural details that make your wedding unique.
More importantly, investing in a wedding videographer for your destination wedding means you can share your celebration with everyone who couldn’t attend. Whether it’s friends and family unable to travel due to time or cost, your wedding film allows them to experience the emotions, beauty, and joy of your day as if they were right there with you.
This is especially true for intimate weddings and elopements. These celebrations are often smaller, deeply personal, and held in breathtaking locations. A wedding film becomes the perfect way to include loved ones in your special day, allowing them to relive the heartfelt moments, stunning scenery, and meaningful exchanges that made your celebration so unique. It’s also a beautiful keepsake for you to revisit the magic of your wedding day in a way no other medium can capture
A professional videographer ensures your wedding film captures not just the stunning location but also the atmosphere, connections, and meaningful moments that make the day so special
TIP: Always make sure you know the additional travel expenses involved for your videographer and if they charge more for destination weddings. Unlike many videographers, I DO NOT charge a premium for the additional days ‘out of the office’ and in most cases include a pre-wedding shoot the day before the actual wedding day.
12) I just can’t afford it – videography is a luxury item
More to the point, you don’t THINK you can afford it. But let’s take a look at some of the other areas you’ve allocated your budget to for the day itself.
You have a photographer but you’re also thinking of having a photo booth. You’ve chosen delectable meal options and the tables are decorated beautifully but you still think you need favours (very 1990s). How about a sweet cart for the younger guests or an ice-cream van? All lovely touches but all eat away (excuse the pun) at your budget at the expense of other investments.
OR another way to look at it … why spend all that money on just one day and not have a well produced wedding film to remember all of those things you have spent your money on?
Not only that, but there will be moments in the day you will miss (think about when you’re having your portrait session or your family and group photos). Your videographer will be there to capture all your friends and family having fun, which you might not get to see yourself.
TIP: Don’t leave any of the larger investments until the last minute because you might run out of money and this could be a real regret. Videographers and photographers should be something you consider seriously at that start of the planning stages to avoid disappointment. Videography should not be regarded as an add-on or luxury item.
Another little hint here: Ask your parents ????! I often get commissioned by the bride or groom’s parents, as happened with this wedding of Gerry-Rae and Nick in Austria …
13) I Don’t Have Time to Think About This
Planning a wedding can be all-consuming, and it’s easy to put videography on the back burner amidst the endless decisions about venues, attire, and florals. But here’s the thing—your wedding day is one of the most significant days of your life, and it deserves to be remembered as such. A thoughtfully crafted wedding film will allow you to relive not just the moments but the emotions, long after the day has passed.
By booking your videographer early, you’re not only ensuring their availability but also giving yourself time to collaborate with someone who understands your vision and values. At Story Of Your Day, I work closely with my clients to take the stress out of planning, offering guidance on timings, key moments to capture, and how to make sure your wedding film feels uniquely yours.
TIP: Save time by focusing on videographers whose work resonates with you. Narrow your options to a few that feel aligned with your style and personality, then book a call to connect. A consultation will help you feel confident in your choice, and with a limited number of commissions accepted each year, booking early ensures you don’t miss out.
14) I’m Not Sure What Style I Want
It’s completely normal to feel unsure about the style of wedding film you want. After all, this isn’t something you plan every day! The key is to find a videographer whose portfolio feels authentic and reflects storytelling in a way that moves you. A timeless, personal approach will always stand the test of time, capturing the true essence of your day.
At Story Of Your Day, I focus on creating cinematic time capsules that allow you to relive your wedding authentically, without the distraction of trends or stylised effects. If you’re drawn to raw, genuine moments that unfold naturally and tell your story in a way that feels uniquely personal, then my approach is perfectly tailored to you. The right videographer will not only guide you through the process but also ensure that the film reflects your personality and values.
TIP: Take the time to watch a selection of films from videographers whose work you admire. Make note of what moves you—whether it’s the emotion in the storytelling, the pace, or the way it feels deeply personal. Share these preferences during your consultation to ensure your vision aligns with the filmmaker’s approach, creating a film that’s truly one-of-a-kind.
So… while you might THINK you have a reason not to hire a videographer, I hope I’ve shown you how each concern can be turned into an opportunity to create something truly special. Have I convinced you yet?
If so, let’s take the next step together. Explore my Destination Film Gallery or UK Wedding Film Gallery to see how I bring each couple’s unique story to life. Then, get in touch for a chat! Let’s discuss how I can capture your day—your story—in a way that creates timeless memories you’ll cherish forever.
