Why Videography Still Feels Like a Luxury But Shouldn’t Be

There’s a magic that happens on a wedding day — fleeting moments, raw emotions, and unscripted love. As wedding photographers and videographers, we get a front row seat to the best day of someone’s life. But what you see in the highlight reels or the perfectly framed portraits is only part of the story. The real magic? It happens behind the lens.

The Heart Behind What We Do

Weddings are full of big moments: the vows, the kiss, the first dance. But sometimes, the most unforgettable scenes are the quiet ones. The ones no one planned. The ones that happen when no one’s looking – except us! Behind the lens, we’re anticipating moments before they happen. We know when the groom glances at the bride just before she walks down the aisle, or when Grandma wipes away a tear during the vows. These moments matter and they’re the ones you’ll want to remember forever.

When most people start planning their wedding, there’s one thing they rarely question: hiring a photographer. It’s a given. A non-negotiable. A line item that goes straight into the budget. And for good reason; photos are beautiful, timeless, and easy to picture as part of your big day! But videography? That still feels like a luxury. An extra if there’s room in the budget. A “nice-to-have,” not a “must-have.” And I think it’s time we change that.

Misconceptions of Videography

Somewhere along the way, videography became the thing couples would add on if there’s anything left. Maybe it’s because people assume video is just a moving version of their photos. Maybe it’s because older wedding videos were long, clunky, or hard to watch. But modern wedding films are cinematic, emotional and story driven. They sound like your vows. They feel like being there, all over again.

Photography captures the stillness, the elegance of your dress, the way your partner looks at you down the aisle, the joy on your grandmother’s face. But videography captures what can’t be frozen: the tremble in your voice as you say your vows, the way your partner wipes away a tear when they think no one’s watching, the laughter, the speeches, the dancing and even your families reactions during these special moments. A photo is a beautiful keepsake but a video is a living memory.

One of the most common things couples tell me after their wedding? “I almost didn’t get video. I’m so glad I did.” Or worse, “We skipped video and now I regret it.” No one ever regrets having a way to hear the voices of the people they love. No one ever regrets being able to watch their wedding day unfold again and again. Video is not a luxury but a legacy. Think about this: In 30 years, your photos will still be gorgeous. But imagine showing your children, or even grandchildren, not just what the day looked like, but what it felt like.

That’s the difference between a still moment and a living one.

Is Videography Still a Luxury?

Maybe in terms of budgeting, it feels that way. But in terms of value? In what it gives you for the rest of your life? It’s not extra. It’s essential. If you’re thinking about whether or not to include videography in your wedding, I invite you to consider this: your wedding day will go by in a blur. Let’s make sure it is not just a memory but a day you can relive over and over again.

Curious what your love story could look like on film?

Let’s chat. I’d love to hear your vision.