When it comes to having a wedding, many couples are on the fence about whether to hire a wedding videographer. Traditionally, most weddings would always hire a professional photographer. But is having a videographer really necessary?
Let’s talk about the pro’s and con’s of hiring a videographer but also, why hiring a photo/video duo may be an essential solution.
Why Hire A Wedding Videographer
One of the most common regrets I hear from couples who have recently had a wedding is not hiring a videographer. The day flies by so quickly, that there can be a sense of joy in reliving those moments through a movie. With all the planning and work that goes into a wedding, a lot of couples feel a sense of despair once the day finishes. And as someone who has transitioned from photography to videography, it was initially something I didn’t think to be necessary. But it has been something I have also fallen in love with- and consider to be an essential.
While photos capture moments, video captures movement. It also captures sound. To be able to listen back to your vows or to the heart-felt words in your grandparents speech is something that you can cherish forever. Despite being primarily a photographer myself, I do know that this is something that photos will never be able to capture.
Why Hire a Photography and Videography Duo
Now that you’ve decided to hire a videographer, the next step is who. In Melbourne, are an abundant of photographer and videographer out there that work independently. Many of the agencies in Melbourne also offer photo + video bundles, but they usually hire separate freelancers on their books (who may have never met before).
As someone who has worked as with other photographers and videographers over the years, I will admit that it is not without its challenges. I have had instances of photographers running into my frame as the couples walk down the aisle and missing that key moment. I’ve heard of photographers standing in front of the video camera while the couple are doing their first dance- completely missing the entire dance! If you end up on wedding Tik Tok, it doesn’t take long until you stumble across all sorts of ego clashes and problems between photographers and videographers. It can actually ruin a wedding day.
Having a photography and videography duo that already work together is essential. As a couple, Kit and I know each other inside and out, so our communication is flawless. We plan our movements so every moment is capture by both of us. And if he gets in the way of my shot, I can just shove him out the way (haha- that’s the great thing about being a couple). We also have a similar vision and edit our photos/videos in a similar style so there is a consistency.
Pros and Cons
There are a few pros and cons to consider when option for a videographer
Pros
Cons
- Seamless Teamwork: A duo that works together regularly knows how to stay out of each other’s way, anticipate moments, and capture the day efficiently.
- Consistent style across photo and video: your images and film will feel cohesive in colour, mood, and storytelling — no clashing aesthetics.
- Less Planning: One team, one contract, one timeline. It simplifies planning and reduces stress.
- Better Coverage: While one person focuses on stills, the other can capture movement, audio, and emotion happening at the same time.
- More Cost Effective: Bundled photo + video packages are usually cheaper than booking separate vendors.
- Cost: Hiring a videographer as well as a photographer can add significant cost to your wedding
- Duo vs Video Team: Duo video coverage is typically documentary-style rather than cinematic, multi-camera production.
- Not Ideal for Larger Weddings: Big weddings with 150+ guests may benefit from larger teams with multiple angles.
About
Vanessa Claire
Vanessa Claire is an engineer turned photographer. With 10 years of photography experience and a professionally trained background in landscape and travel, she has a unique skill for using natural light and composition to create remarkable images. Her vision is to create timeless imagery by utilising unique and creative compositions.
Outside of photography, Vanessa loves travelling, surfing the coast and sipping on a good Nebbiolo.
