Is It Important to Have Your Videographer Record Your Entire Wedding Ceremony and Reception?

Videography is an ever-increasing element of a successful wedding; more and more couples are counting it as a vital, necessary part of the wedding-day budget. However, is videography important for your entire ceremony and reception, or will capturing the highlights from the full day be enough?

Consider the Moments

Josh Carrigan, founder, CEO, and lead filmmaker of Philadelphia's Lovemore Films, specifically focuses on those small moments. "Your ceremony and reception formalities are certainly important parts of the wedding experience, but there are so many other little moments and interactions that you'll be delighted to have on video down the road," he said. "Hugs from your mom, tender/silly moments with your partner, old friends goofing off, Grandpa mixing it up on the dance floor…those spontaneous moments are what make your wedding truly unique and personal."

After all, it's the moments that you'll remember. When building a highlight film, those special moments will be prioritized and stitched together, which many would agree is far more enjoyable than rewatching the entire day—minute by minute—again.

Consider the Budget

Yes, videographers are expensive, but so are photographers, caterers, and venues. If you're hosting a small wedding with only close family, the cost might not be worth it to you. The smaller the group, the higher likelihood your photographer can catch all of what's happening. However, when the guest list grows, so does the number of people who have made an impact in your life. Having your uncle on video slow dancing with your aunt or your ring bearer sitting down in the middle of the ceremony will be valuable family memories years down the line.

Carrigan says, "Unless you know without a shadow of a doubt that your ceremony is the only event that you want to have on film, consider moving your budget around in other areas so that you can extend video coverage to more of your wedding day."

Consider Your Personality

If a couple is more fun and relaxed, a traditional wedding video probably won't be what you want. It's important to find a videographer that melds well with the personalities and style of the couple; it will come across on film. "Take the time to figure out what kind of vibe resonates with you," Carrigan advised. "Are you more silly or sentimental? Modern or traditional?" Your personality should come across on screen.

Of course, no two weddings are alike. What's right for your best friend won't be right for you and your wedding day, so it's worth taking some time to really examine which videography options are perfect for you and your big day.