Your wedding day goes by fast. Many couples say it felt like it was over in minutes. A wedding video lets you go back and hear the vows, the toasts and the laughter exactly as they happened. If you’ve already decided you want one (and if you’re still on the fence, the “Should I hire a wedding videographer?” section on my homepage may help), the next step is planning it well. Here’s how I’d approach it if you’re planning a wedding in New Jersey, including the questions to ask any videographer and what to look for in a package.

Start with what you want to remember

Before you compare packages, think about how you’ll actually watch your video. Do you want a short, emotional film to share with friends? A full record of the ceremony and speeches for your family? Both? Your answer shapes everything else, from hours of coverage to the type of edit you choose.

What’s in a wedding video package

Packages vary from one videographer to the next, but most are built from the same pieces. Here’s what to look at.

Hours of coverage

This is how long the videographer is with you on the day. Think about which moments matter most: getting ready, a first look, the ceremony, portraits, the entrances, toasts, first dances and the send-off. If you want everything from getting ready to the last dance, you’ll need more hours. If your ceremony and reception are in different places, factor in travel time between them.

Highlight film vs. full-length video

A highlight film is a short, edited story of your day set to music, with the best moments and pieces of your vows and speeches woven in. It’s the one you’ll share and rewatch.

A full-length video (sometimes called a documentary edit) includes the ceremony, toasts and key moments with fewer cuts, so you can relive them in full. Many couples want both: the highlight film for the feeling, the full-length edit for the record.

Drone footage

Aerial shots can show off your venue, the setting and the scale of your celebration. They work especially well at outdoor, waterfront and estate venues. Not every venue allows drones, and weather has to cooperate, so ask about it early. I fly a DJI Mavic 4 Pro.

Audio

Audio is the part couples think about least and care about most once they watch the video. Your vows and toasts are only worth having if you can hear them clearly. Ask how the videographer records the officiant, the two of you, and the speakers. Small wireless microphones and a feed from the DJ or band’s sound system are common approaches.

Delivery time

Editing a wedding well takes time. Ask when you’ll receive your highlight film and your full-length video, and how they’ll be delivered, such as an online gallery or downloadable files. Timelines vary, so get it in writing.

Photography and video together

Some couples find it simpler when their photographer and videographer already work well together, instead of two vendors working around each other. Ask any videographer how they coordinate with your photographer, and whether they’ve worked with yours before.

What wedding video costs

My wedding packages in New Jersey start at $3,999. The final price depends on hours of coverage, the type of edits you choose, drone footage and any extras.

When comparing quotes, make sure you’re comparing the same things: hours, number of shooters, type of edit, audio setup and delivery time.

Questions to ask a wedding videographer

Bring this list to every consultation:

  • Can I see a full wedding you’ve filmed, not just a highlight reel?
  • How many hours of coverage are included, and what does extra time cost?
  • Will you be filming alone, or with a second shooter?
  • How do you record audio for the vows and toasts?
  • Do you fly a drone, and have you checked whether my venue allows it?
  • What’s included in the highlight film, and how long is it?
  • Is a full-length ceremony and speech edit included?
  • How long until I receive my videos, and how are they delivered?
  • Can I choose or suggest music?
  • What happens if you’re sick or there’s an emergency on the day?
  • Have you worked with my photographer or venue before?

How to get the best video on the day

A few simple steps make a big difference:

  • Share your timeline early. Your videographer should know when and where every key moment happens.
  • Build in a little buffer. Rushed schedules lead to missed moments. Ten extra minutes here and there helps.
  • Think about light. If you can, plan portraits and outdoor moments for the softer light of late afternoon.
  • Tell me who matters. Give me a short list of the people you most want captured, like grandparents or a best friend flying in from far away.
  • Introduce your vendors. When the photographer, videographer, planner and DJ talk ahead of time, the day runs more smoothly.
  • Write your vows down. Even if you plan to speak from the heart, having them in hand keeps nerves in check.

Let’s talk about your wedding

I’ve spent more than 20 years telling stories with a camera, and weddings are some of my favorite stories to tell. If you’re planning a wedding in New Jersey, I’d love to hear about your day, your venue and what matters most to you. Reach out through the contact form on my site and we’ll set up a time to talk. You can also find more about my wedding work on my website. I also work across New Jersey and Central Florida on corporate video projects.