
## Introduction

So you want to hire a wedding videographer.

Great decision!

Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion.

Having a wedding video, whether it’s a 3-minute highlight video or a full-length feature film, is something that will let you relive the day for years and decades to come.

(If you’re on the fence about hiring a videographer, I recommend checking out [this article](https://secretariat.video/blog/50-reasons-to-hire-videographer-for-your-wedding) about 50 reasons why you should hire one.)

But — there’s a problem.

There are so many videographers out there.

And with so many choices, it can be difficult to know where to begin.

Where’s the best place to find a videographer? How do I know what to look for?

You’ve come to the right place.

## It doesn’t have to be hard.

Finding the perfect wedding videographer — sounds daunting, right?

If you’re caught up in the process of wedding planning, it might be one in many tasks that seem daunting for you.

But it doesn’t have to be!

If you follow the steps in this article - it’ll be easy.

Let’s break it down together — so you can find a videographer whose work you love and who will love working with you.

Let’s get you a beautiful wedding video that you can enjoy for the rest of your life.

## Tip #1: Start Early

Here’s a fact: wedding videographers book up quickly.

Especially for 2023 weddings.

And ESPECIALLY if you’re getting married on a Saturday.

(If you’re on a weekday, that’ll give you some more flexibility. But still start early).

Thus, to give yourself the best possible chance of being able to hire your best find, you want to start early.

This will give you time to research, compare portfolios, and really find someone whose work you love.

It’ll also give you time to discuss your vision for your wedding video with them, introduce them to your planner and photographer, and start building those relationships early.

The more communication that happens up front, the better.

And the more you will all be on the same page.

What better time to start, than now?

## Step 1: Start with a Style

When looking for the right wedding videographer — probably the biggest factor is their style.

What do I mean?

Well — do you envision a cinematic film that tells the story of your love, and is focused the most on you as a couple?

Maybe the video contains clips of you guys together on your honeymoon, or in the place where you got engaged.

It might feature voiceovers from one of you to the other.

That would be a storytelling style and approach.

On the other hand, maybe you don’t want anything staged or produced.

Maybe you are looking for something very natural, candid, and organic feeling. A video that captures the raw emotion of your wedding day.

As the events of the day unfold, you get to see it from the perspective and emotion of various people and angles throughout the video.

That’s a more documentary style video.

### How to determine your style

So how you do get to know what style you want?

Simple - look at examples.

Start by simply searching for wedding videos on Youtube or Vimeo, and see what you like.

One tip is to start with examples of videos that you’ve seen before.

And don’t worry if they are not in your area. This stage of the process is just determining your style.

If you do this well, it should give you a better understanding of the types of styles and approaches that are out there.

And this in turn will help you narrow down your search later on.

By starting with a style, you can save yourself a lot of time. You can then just focus on videographers whose work aligns with the style you like best.

## Step 2: Start looking!

![Wedding Table Decor](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672711639/content/posts/thomas-william-nAvodiKjbTM-unsplash_1_ij69cx.jpg)

Now it’s time to start looking at options. The fun part!

The first important decision you'll need to make is this: local vs nationwide.

If there’s a videographer you REALLY like, but isn’t local, would you be willing to pay a little extra for travel? (Assuming they offer this as an option)

And if you’re planning a destination wedding, this is probably necessary anyway, unless you’re familiar with the local vendors.

At the same time, though, hiring a local videographer has its benefits too.

They’ll be familiar with your area and may have shot at your venue or in a similar location nearby.

Additionally, you might be able to meet up with them in person before the wedding to get to know them and talk more about your video.

### Where to find a videographer online

Ok - so where should you start your search?

Here are a few options.

My top pick: Vimeo.

#### Vimeo

Vimeo is a great spot to begin your search.

As a popular platform for videographers in general, many wedding videographers use Vimeo as a portfolio site anyway.

If you search for wedding videographers on Vimeo, you’ll find many — and with a wide range of styles and approaches.

#### Google My Business

Google is another good place to find wedding videographers.

Google is best if you are looking for someone local, because it allows you to search for those in your specific location.

Google is also very widely used, so it should give you many options from which to start your search.

#### Social Media

Social media is another great place to start your search!

And one of the most effective ways to find a wedding videographer on social media is to search for relevant hashtags.

Popular hashtags for wedding videography could be things like #weddingvideo, #weddingvideographer, and #weddingfilmmaker.

**Instagram** is the de-facto place to start, as almost every videographer is on it. It’s even used by many as their primary portfolio location.

Another great place to find more wedding videographers and their work is **TikTok**, since it’s video-based and many videographers are on it.

That’s where I’d recommend starting: Instagram and TikTok. You can use others, but the people you find will likely be on these platforms as well.

#### Online Wedding Directories

**WeddingWire**

One popular website is WeddingWire, an online marketplace that connects couples with wedding vendors in their area.

You can search and filter wedding videographers by location, price range, and style, and read reviews from previous brides.

**TheKnot**

Another popular resource is The Knot, which is owned by the same company as WeddingWire.

They offer pretty much the same service, but you might find a few videographers who are only on one and not the other.

**Zola**

Zola is another wedding-specific website is much newer. It’s got a fresh and trendy feel, and is a genuinely helpful site.

Just like the other sites, Zola provides a range of other wedding vendors, including photographers, florists, caterers and more.

**Carats and Cake**

Carats and Cake is another vendor site, with a curated list of vendors.

The site says it will help you "Be on the Cutting Edge of Wedding Trends, Tips, and Resources," and it aims to help couples stay up-to-date on the latest industry developments and find the perfect vendors for their big day.

[WeddingPlanner.co.uk](http://weddingplanner.co.uk/)

Another directory site, for UK weddings. The site has dozens of videographers to choose from, view portfolio, and contact.

Some more wedding sites and directory sites you can visit include:

- Weddingbee
- OneWed
- A Practical Wedding
- Green Wedding Shoes
- Wedding Chicks
- Thumbtack
- Yelp

These websites have a wide range of vendors listed, but often include many talented videographers. They can be good to help broaden your search and find those you might not have found elsewhere.

## Step 3: Make your Shortlist

This step is pretty easy. As you go about Step 2 where you’re researching various videographers - just write down and make a note of your favorites.

To narrow down your list, here are a few factors you can keep in mind:

- **Style of their portfolio:** Definitely the most important factor. You should LOVE their portfolio. As in, maybe even getting emotional while watching a video of complete strangers.
- **Location:** Are they local? If not, consider their location, if they’re willing to travel, and if so, how far. And if you are planning a destination wedding, you may want to find someone who specializes in destination weddings.
- **Reviews:** You can read reviews from previous clients to get an idea of the videographer's level of professionalism and customer satisfaction. Look for reviews that mention the quality of the final product, the videographer's responsiveness, and their ability to capture the key moments of the wedding day.

These factors should help you narrow down your options and create a shortlist of those who meet your criteria.

This will make it easier to compare your options in the next step!

## Step 4: Talk to Candidates

![Wedding Ceremony Venue](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672711639/content/posts/keenan-barber-RpUcPmG46vw-unsplash_1_snbgdu.jpg)

Ok - now you’ve made your shortlist!

Now it’s time to reach out to the candidates and start some conversations.

### What to Talk About

Here are some things to consider and ask about when talking to potential videographers:

#### 1. **Your Venue**

- If you’ve already chosen your wedding venue, ask the videographer if they’ve shot at your venue or are familiar with it.
- If they have, they might have a portfolio piece they can show you as an example!
- It’s also great for the videographer if they’re already familiar with the lighting and setup of your venue.

#### 2. **What you’re looking for**

Talk through what you’re looking for: What style you like, what you have in mind for your video, what other videos you’ve watched and liked, etc.

Do you want a feature-length film, a highlight film, a social media teaser, or all 3?

Every videographer will have different packages and options - talk through these and discuss what you are looking for too.

By communicating this kind of stuff upfront, in the initial call, you can ensure that the videographer is on the same page and able to provide what you’re looking for.

#### 3. Your Vision

Communicating your vision to your wedding videographer is so important. Don’t overlook this part.

You need to clearly express what you are imagining for your wedding film — even if that’s just through a few samples.

This will help your videographer understand what you are looking for, so there isn’t any misunderstanding later on.

Here are a few tips for this:

- **Discuss your timeline!** By far my #1 tip. If you have a timeline ready, even just a draft, this will make it easy to talk through the various options with your videographer. And it will help them share and recommend specific things for you. As someone who’s shot dozens of weddings, your videographer will have experience and input to help you talk through the best ways to integrate filming into your schedule. This will help them plan their coverage details better, too.
- **Share your inspiration.** Share photos, videos, or other examples of the types of films that you like. This can help your videographer get a sense of your style and preferences and give them a starting point for discussing your vision.
- **Be specific.** The more specific you can be, the better!
- **Communicate your budget.** If you do have a specific budget, make sure to communicate it with your videographer so you are both on the same page.

#### 4. **Details and specific moments**

Share with the videographer your ideas for your wedding video. What details you want captured, and what shots you absolutely must have. Are there any specific moments you have planned that you want captured? This is a good time to discuss them.

#### 5. **Do they offer photography too?**

If you are also looking for a wedding photographer, you may want to discuss this too. This can be really convenient, because it’s one less vendor you have to talk to and communicate with, and the photo+video team will already be accustomed to working together, which means they can coordinate more easily and not get in each other’s way.

#### 6. **Questions**

Come prepared with any specific questions you might have too. It’s always good to ask about their approach to wedding videography, how they go about the day, and what parts of the day they enjoy the most. I also always like to ask why they got into videography and what they love most about it.

Also make sure to confirm and discuss their process for booking and finalizing the contract.

Also - ask if they have any questions for you!

## Step 5: Hire!

At this point, you should now have met at least one videographer whose style you love, whose packages you resonate with, and whom you can envision spending your special day with you!

Now it’s just a matter of the booking and onboarding process.

Congratulations - we just went from no-idea-where-to-start, to found the perfect person to capture and document your special day!

## Conclusion

Finding the right videographer is such an important step in wedding planning - and one that is so often overlooked.

It truly is worth taking the extra time to research, plan, talk to people, and find the one who is the right fit for you.

Whatever style you’re looking for, you’re sure to find a wedding videographer who can capture your special day in a way that you will treasure for years to come.

And if you like [our style](https://secretariat.video/portfolio), please reach out - I’d love to chat about documenting your special day for you.


Use these tips to find the perfect wedding videographer to document the most important day of your life.

How to Find a Wedding Videographer: The Ultimate Guide


Your wedding date is coming up.

As the big day approaches, you're starting to feel the excitement build. You've chosen the perfect venue, and you've found the perfect photographer.

And you're working with a talented wedding planner who is helping you bring all your dreams to life.

But you’re on the fence about a videographer.

The truth is, [about 2/3 of brides hire a videographer](https://secretariat.video/blog/wedding-videography-statistics-2022). But many don’t, and there are many reasons why you might be on the fence.

Maybe you're worried about the cost, or maybe you just don't feel comfortable being on camera. Whatever your reasons — this article is for you.

In this post, we'll explore 10 reasons brides might not hire a videographer — and why you might want to reconsider them!

We'll look at the cost, the time and effort involved, and the personal preferences that factor into your decision. And we'll discuss why, in the end, a wedding video is [almost always worth it](https://secretariat.video/blog/50-reasons-to-hire-videographer-for-your-wedding).

So without further ado, let’s jump in:

## Reason #1: The cost.

Definitely the #1 reason here. Wedding videography isn’t cheap, and often, it’s not prioritized as part of the budget.

But the venue isn’t cheap, the food probably isn’t cheap, and the photographer isn’t either. We pay for higher quality, and we pay for what we value. Wedding videography is the same.

Unlike the food, which is a cost — money spent, but gone after the wedding — a video is an investment.

The money you spend on having wedding video, just like the photographs — will give you a memory to have for the rest of your life.

So yes - videography is a significant expense. But is it worth it? 100%.

## 2. Some brides may prefer still photography.

Some brides simply prefer to prioritize still photography, and skip having a video of their wedding.

The truth is, videography provides a much more comprehensive and immersive experience — far more than photos can.

Why? A video captures not just the visual elements of a wedding, but also the sounds, the movements, and the emotions of the day.

A video can capture the bride’s and groom's vows, the speeches given by your friends and family, and the music and dancing at the reception. Photos can capture those too, but nothing like video can.

These elements add so much depth and context to the memories of your wedding.

And they help bring the event to life — so when you’re watching 20 years in the future, you’re still there, in the moment. I love still photographs, but they can’t do that.

## 3. Feeling self-conscious on camera

First off — this is completely normal. In fact, I’d say most brides feel at least some level of self-conscious when being photographed.

This is why it’s so important to choose a videographer whom you can relate to, connect with, and genuinely be friends with. The trust has to be there.

If the trust is there, you will be 1000% more comfortable in front of the camera.

## 4. Limited time or budget.

If you’re planning a small, intimate wedding with a limited budget, you might think it’s best to prioritize other expenses and forego videography.

But in my opinion — a small or intimate wedding is that much more of a reason to have a wedding video.

A romantic, beautiful wedding video with a compelling storyline will tell the story of a small wedding in an incredible way.

In addition, because the considerations for a smaller wedding are different, the photographer and videographer can often have more creative freedom to create something that is even more in line with your personal style and taste.

Also, with a smaller wedding, you and your spouse have more control over the details and the atmosphere of the event. So you can make the experience feel more personal and meaningful, and your wedding video will capture that intimacy and authenticity.

## 5. Limited space.

If the venue is small or the wedding is taking place in a location with limited space, it may be difficult to accommodate a videographer and their equipment.

## 6. Privacy concerns.

Often some guests may require additional privacy protection, and can’t be shown in the video. However, this isn’t a reason to not hire a videographer.

If you have guests for whom this is the case, and who shouldn’t be shown in the wedding video, you can simply communicate this to your videographer before the event.

If your videographer is aware of these restrictions, they can make appropriate arrangements to respect your guests' privacy.

## 7. Prioritizing other vendors

Some brides may decide to allocate their budget to other vendors they feel are more important.

This could include people such as a photographer, or a band or DJ.

But again, I think this goes back to cost vs. investment. If you consider how much of an investment videography is — I think it's definitely something you have to give priority to.

## 8. Worrying that a videographer may be intrusive at the wedding.

Again, this is a completely normal worry.

But fortunately, it’s also easily avoided.

Going back to point 3, it’s all about trust. If you find a videographer you can connect with, and genuinely trust - this will put you completely at ease.

You can even talk to the videographer to determine if their style is more documentary or journalistic. If this is the case, then they’ll naturally spend most of the day being discreet and unobtrusive.

And I think this goes without saying, but choose an experienced professional and experienced videographer: A good videographer will be able to capture the important moments of your wedding without being overly intrusive or noticeable.

To summarize, as with the other points here - careful planning and communication with your videographer will work wonders, and will minimize any potential discomfort or intrusiveness on the day of.

## 9. Lack of Availability.

During busy seasons, the best local videographers may be booked up, especially for popular dates.

This is probably the most unavoidable of all of the reasons in this article. If your wedding date is set, there’s not much you can do if your ideal videographer is booked up.

However, most videographers do have others they can recommend - some may even have a similar style as them. It definitely can help to ask videographers whose work you like, as well as other vendors such as your planner or venue.

## 10. Unsure about who to hire.

If you're unsure about which videographer to hire, that probably means you care a lot about quality — which is great when it comes to wedding videography.

Seriously, we love brides who care deeply about their video and value the craft.

There's two primary ways I recommend narrowing down options and deciding who to hire.

First, watch a bunch of wedding videos, and pick videographers whose style you like.

Decide what kind of style you like, and look for videographers who match that style.

Second, meet with potential videographers whose work you like. It's a great idea to meet with any vendor before hiring them, especially photographers and videographers. I'm always surprised at how few brides do this by default, and even more, how few vendors make it a practice!

It will help you so much to get a sense of your potential vendor's personality and style.

This will help you a lot to determine if you feel comfortable working with them and if their approach aligns with your creative and artistic vision for your day.

## Conclusion

I get it — deciding whether or not to hire a videographer for your wedding can be difficult.

There are a myriad of reasons why you might be hesitant.

But there are, in my opinion, so many more compelling reasons as to why a wedding video is worth the investment.

If you'd like to read more of those, I put together [this list of 50 of them](https://secretariat.video/blog/50-reasons-to-hire-videographer-for-your-wedding).

I hope this post has been helpful for you. And whatever you decide - best of luck in your wedding planning journey!


In this post, we will look at some of the reasons why a bride might not hire a videographer for her wedding, and why these reasons might not be as compelling as they seem.

10 Reasons Brides Might Not Hire a Videographer, and Why They Are Wrong


Wedding videography has come a long way since the early days of wedding films, which were often either poorly produced, with shaky, grainy footage, or in the realm of only the most high-end weddings.

Today, things are very different.

Wedding videography today has grown so much as an industry.

And videographers can capture stunning, cinematic footage to make your wedding look like a hollywood film.

This doesn't come without an investment though, so let's take a look at some numbers.

## The Investment

As with any other professional service, **wedding videography is an investment**!

Depending on what videos you want made and how much time your photographer or friend/family member has to devote to filming, _the price can add up quickly._

The important thing to understand up-front is that it's just that — an investment. Unlike the flowers, food, and other items that will be gone after the wedding day, a wedding video is something that you'll have forever.

It's an investment, not a cost.

Most vendors have their own starting prices, and they vary a lot. So it's best to do research early on in the process, to get a sense of the market value for their services.

## The Average Cost of a Wedding Videographer in 2023

According to theKnot, the average cost of a wedding videographer last year was around $1900\.

However, this is including many low-budget videographers who are just starting out, and who undercut their prices to be able to get their first clients.

This is also nationwide. What you get for the same amount of money varies greatly by your area.

An established, quality wedding videographer will start at the absolute minimum around this range.

In the DC market, for example, you can expect to pay $3000-7000 for a quality videographer's base package.

And if the videographer offers add-ons and specializations like additional edits, engagement shoots, or b-roll filming times, these can add to the cost of your package.

These add-ons usually require additional filming and editing time and potentially more advanced equipment as well.

## Factors that influence pricing

There are several factors that will affect the cost of a wedding videographer for your wedding. Let's look at a few.

### Equipment and set up

![How Much Does A Wedding Videographer Cost?](https://images.pexels.com/photos/14011946/pexels-photo-14011946.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&h=650&w=940)

As with any other profession, wedding videographers have _lots_ of overhead costs! They require expensive equipment to do their job well.

Wedding filmmaking is an intimate art form that leaves both you and the viewer feeling connected. Therefore, professional quality cameras and lenses are crucial for creating quality videos.

A beginner videographer might try to get away with cheaper equipment. But by looking at their portfolio, you'll be able to tell.

Equipment definitely doesn't make a videographer - it's 95% _skill_ and _artistic vision_. But there is a minimum standard of equipment needed to be able to capture your day artistically.

Videographers who are starting out and trying to capture your day with just a few thousand dollars worth of equipment, even with good artistic skill, will have a more difficult time.

At S3, for example, we use upwards of $40,000 worth of equipment for each wedding we film.

Again, it's 95% skill, but that equipment does allow us to produce films that look _tv and cinema-worthy._

### Event location

![Bridge And Groom Standing While Holding Flower Bouquet](https://images.pexels.com/photos/2959192/pexels-photo-2959192.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&h=650&w=940)

The cost of filming your wedding will **vary greatly** depending on your locale.

Some areas of the country tend to have higher costs for wedding vendors in general, and that includes videography.

This could be due to a higher cost of living or a greater demand for weddings in your area.

For example, wedding videography services in large cities or popular wedding destinations may be more expensive than in smaller towns or rural areas.

A wedding video in southern Florida, for example, will likely cost a lot more than a similar service in the Carolinas.

With a bit of research, you can usually find the average pricing for the best videographers in your area.

![How Much Does A Wedding Videographer Cost?](https://images.pexels.com/photos/1693626/pexels-photo-1693626.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&h=650&w=940)

## Finding a videographer on the internet: what to look for

There are _tons_ of free online resources to find your ideal vendors, including your videographer.

You can look at their work, read reviews, and then contact them to see if they’re the right fit.

Here are a few examples and places you can start:

- WeddingWire and TheKnot
- WeddingMinute
- Wedding-Spot
- Here Comes the Guide
- Zola

When looking at videographers' sites, take a look at their portfolio and see what _quality_ they provide. Make sure to look at several and compare their styles before making your final choice. I recommend talking to multiple videographers too, before making a final decision.

## Packages and Structure

![How Much Does A Wedding Videographer Cost?](https://images.pexels.com/photos/56926/pexels-photo-56926.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&h=650&w=940)

As I mentioned earlier, **wedding videographers offer various packages**. Some offer free add-ons with certain packages, and some offer promotions with photographers they partner with, for example.

Some packages will only cover certain parts of the event like the ceremony or reception.

If you are looking to capture every moment of your wedding day, you'll want to look at how many hours the package includes too.

Some videographers may offer more extensive coverage, but will also add additional costs per hour of filming.

But this can be a good thing, too: let's say your package includes 8 hours, but your wedding day timeline is 9 hours. You may be able to add the extra hour a-la-carte rather than springing for the more expensive package.

The length of the videos varies as well. Most have time frames of **2-5 minutes** for a highlight video, and 20-30 minutes for a feature-length film.

## Payment Plans

Some wedding vendors offer payment plans to avoid having to take out a loan or use credit cards to pay for their services. This is especially true in the creative fields such as photography, videography, and decoration services.

Videographers will often offer a tiered package structure, and some will allow you to pay a percentage of the fee after the wedding as well.

## Looking to save money?

If you are looking to save money, one great way to do it is to save on things that won't last past the wedding day.

For example, the food.

If there’s an appetizer buffet set up, you could find a way to provide your own food instead of paying someone else to do it.

Or, if you have friends who are good at making drinks, you could ask them to contribute towards the cost of the wedding toast.

All these considerations mean that you'll have more of your wedding budget available to contribute towards what will last - photography and videography.

## Can I save money on editing?

Some brides who are looking to save money will wonder if they can hire a videographer just for the footage, and then either edit the video themselves, or get someone to do it cheaply.

There are several reasons why this _isn't the best idea._

### Can I do it myself?

First and foremost, if you want to do it yourself - editing a wedding film can be a complex and time-consuming process.

Even if you're familiar with video editing, it still takes time and a lot of skill! It requires a high level of technical expertise too, as well as an artistic eye, to create a professional-quality wedding film. If you are not familiar with video editing software and techniques, it can be very difficult to produce something at the same level as even a beginner wedding filmmaker.

Additionally, editing your own wedding film can be emotionally difficult.

What do I mean by that?

As the person who lived through the events of the wedding, you may find it difficult to select which footage to include or exclude. You might be drawn to certain parts of the wedding and less so to others.

This sounds fine, but it just makes it harder for you to create an overview of the day that truly captures what your day was like for you and your spouse.

And even if this isn't a problem for you - it's often so hard to decide what to include and what not to, if you are the one in the shots! This can make the editing process _even longer and more stressful._

Definitely recommend letting someone else do the editing for you.

### Could I hire someone else after the wedding, who's cheaper, to edit?

This is also highly not recommended.

First and foremost, your wedding filmmaker has a deep understanding of your wedding day. After all, they were there. A random video editor was not.

From filming, they likely have a _very specific vision_ for your wedding film. They have spent time with you before and during the wedding, getting to know you and your preferences, and have a clear idea of the look and feel you want for your final product.

For that reason, a separately edited video will likely not accurately reflect your wedding day.

![How Much Does A Wedding Videographer Cost?](https://images.pexels.com/photos/2959192/pexels-photo-2959192.jpeg?auto=compress&cs=tinysrgb&h=650&w=940)

## Wedding Videography Package: A Sample

Please note: these are not our packages - these are simply a sample of what is commonly offered in the industry.

### Basic Package

- Full-day coverage of the wedding ceremony and reception (up to 8 hours)
- **1 videographer** to capture different angles and perspectives
- HD (1080p) video footage captured using professional cameras and lenses
- A highlight film (up to 5 minutes in length) that showcases the best moments of the day
- Digital delivery of highlight film via online download
- Price: $2,500

### Deluxe Package

- Full-day coverage of the wedding ceremony and reception (up to 8 hours)
- **2 videographers** to capture different angles and perspectives
- High-definition video footage captured using professional cameras and lenses
- Aerial footage of the ceremony and reception location (if allowed, and weather permitting)
- A highlight film (up to 5 minutes in length) that showcases the best moments of the day
- A feature-length wedding film, 30-60min in length
- Digital delivery of the highlight film and feature film via online download
- Price: $4,500

### Premium Package

- Full-day coverage of the wedding ceremony and reception (up to 8 hours)
- **2 videographers** to capture different angles and perspectives
- High-definition video footage captured using professional cameras and lenses
- Aerial footage of the ceremony and reception location (if allowed and weather permitting)
- Editing of the footage to create a finished feature-length wedding film (up to 60 minutes in length)
- A highlight film (up to 5 minutes in length) that showcases the best moments of the day
- Digital delivery of the finished film and highlight reel via online download
- A physical copy of the finished film and highlight reel on Blu-ray or DVD
- A "teaser" trailer (up to 2 minutes in length) that can be shared on social media
- An engagement shoot (up to 2 hours) to capture footage of the couple before the wedding
- Price: $6,500

## In Summary

Wedding videography is an _investment_ that is sure to provide lasting memories of your special day.

Thus, it's important to look at it **not as a cost, but as an investment.**

The level of investment will vary widely depending on location, as well as by the specific services being offered.

The cost of wedding videography is also affected by the level of experience and expertise of the videographer. It is important to do research and compare prices from different videographers to find the best fit for your vision for your wedding day.

After all, this is the most memorable day of your life.

Investing in a beautiful video to remember that day forever — is always worth it.


Wedding videography costs vary widely. Learn about budgeting and finding the right videographer for your needs.

How Much Do Wedding Videographers Cost?


Hiring a wedding videographer is a crucial decision.

Why?

Your wedding day happens only once. Then it's just a memory.

And your wedding video will capture memories that you will cherish for a lifetime.

So it's not a decision you should make lightly.

Rather, spend time getting to know various videographers and their styles.

See what you like and what you don't.

I even recommend meeting some via zoom, or at least phone call, before making your decision.

In this article, we'll look at a few ways you can find the perfect videographer for your special day.

## Step 1: Determine Your Needs and Goals

Even before you start looking for a wedding videographer, it's important to have a clear idea of what you want your end product to look like.

What kind of wedding video do you imagine?

Maybe you saw a friend's wedding video and fell in love with it.

Maybe you watched a wedding video of complete strangers that made you emotional.

Regardless, having a few samples of wedding videos you love will be a great start.

Once you have that, as your inspiration, you can consider some of these questions too. This will help you narrow down in your search.

### Some questions to consider

1. What is the overall style and aesthetic of your wedding?
2. Do you want a documentary style video, or something with more staged scenes?
3. What is your budget range?
4. What is your timeline for completing the video?
5. Do you want the videographer to capture the entire wedding day or just certain parts, such as the ceremony and reception?

![Wedding Video Camera](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672451673/content/posts/fahrad-norouzi-Dm_XEb4a-Bw-unsplash_1_vkfviz.jpg)

## Step 2: Research and Compare Wedding Videographers

Now that you have a better idea of what you're looking for...

It's time for the fun part!

Time to start searching for potential wedding videographers.

There are many ways to do this. Here's where I'd recommend starting.

- Searching online directories and websites like Zola, WeddingChicks, and WeddingWire.
- Looking on google for local wedding videographers and checking our their portfolios.
- If you have friends who've recently gotten married, you can ask them for recommendations too.

When comparing wedding videographers, there's one major thing that you should compare them by, and that's their WORK.

Specifically, the quality of it.

And how emotionally connected you feel to the couple in the videos.

You can also look at their experience in the wedding industry. While not always a good indicator, it can at least show you how long someone has been in the industry and how well-versed they are with weddings.

![Wedding Videographer Preparing the Shot](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672451673/content/posts/leo-foureaux-OrUUfRE9_J8-unsplash_1_xfg9v9.jpg)

## Step 3: Call Them, Request Quotes, and Meet

Once you've picked a handful wedding videographers that you like, it's time to talk to them.

For this, it's simple: reach out and see if they have availability on your date.

If so, ask to set up a call.

The major thing you are looking for here is rapport. Do you connect with them and genuinely like them as a person?

If you hit it off on the phone call, set up a zoom meeting, or even an in-person meeting if you can.

You can also request their packages and pricing structure.

This should include their package and add-on options as well as any additional expenses such as travel.

If you get any very low quotes, you should be wary, as they may indicate a lack of experience or quality. But if you've done your research up to this point, this shouldn't be an issue.

## Step 4: Make Your Selection!

Now that you have talked to several videographers, it's time —

Time to choose your favorite!

Most likely, you already have someone in mind. Someone that you connected with more than the others you had talked to.

Now you just have to let them know!

Before making your final decision, it's also a good idea to look over their packages and quotes carefully and consider any additional factors that may be important to you, such as any add-ons or additional options you'd like to include in your package.

![Wedding Video Shoot on Bridge](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672451673/content/posts/scott-webb-Wa0tqJ8vvuw-unsplash_1_qsl7jn.jpg)

## Step 5: Review and Sign the Contract

Most videographers will give you a contract that defines the terms of your package and the work they will do for you.

This is helpful to protect both of you and have everything in writing for you to reference at any time.

## Step 6: Communicate and Collaborate

Finally, once you have hired a wedding videographer and signed the contract, it's important to maintain open communication and collaboration throughout the time leading up to your wedding.

It's very helpful to introduce them to your planner, photographer, and other vendors, so they can work together to plan for your wedding day.

Most videographers will have an onboarding process as well, so they can get all the information they need about the wedding.

![Married couple holding hands](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672451673/content/posts/wu-jianxiong-4TET084JWaA-unsplash_1_n0yu4o.jpg)

## Summary

By following these tips, you can find and select the perfect wedding videographer for your wedding.

Don't be afraid to take your time, and definitely involve your spouse-to-be too. Ask questions, and get to know your videographer.

With the right videographer and good communication, you are sure to have a beautiful and meaningful video to cherish for years to come.


Don't settle for just any wedding videographer - follow these 5 steps to find the perfect one for your special day.

5 Steps to Find and Hire the Perfect Wedding Videographer


## Why this is one of the most important investments of your life

It's easy to forget when you're caught up in the hustle and bustle of wedding planning - but this day is it.

It only happens once.

And there's no going back and doing it differently.

It's a day filled with love, emotion, meaning, and unforgettable moments.

And you will definitely want to look back on it.

Most people only do this through their memory, and through photographs.

But increasingly recently, couples have been able to do it through video as well.

In this article, I wanted to explore some of the reasons why this is such a wonderful way to relive your wedding day.

And why the recent advent of wedding videography, as it becomes more and more popular, is such good news for couples getting married these days.

Not only do you have your photographs from the wedding - but you can watch it, live it, feel it.

It adds an extra layer of magic that photographs simply cannot.

## Should I hire a videographer?

Understandably, many couples are on the fence. Wedding videography is a serious investment, often costing more than photography.

And it's a creative decision, too - you want to find someone who matches your style and vision for your wedding.

So for all the reasons listed below - I wanted to share my thoughts on why this is such a valuable investment for you and your partner as you move towards your wedding day.

In this article, I'll explore some of these benefits, and how a wedding video will let you relive the most memorable day of your life, for the rest of your life.

## OK - On to the List!

Let's get started:

### 1. It’s the #1 regret of brides.

That’s right - not hiring a videographer is one of brides’ [top wedding regrets](https://secretariat.video/blog/wedding-videography-statistics-2022).

In most surveys, over 90% of brides who didn't hire a wedding videographer, wished they had.

### 2. To relive your partner’s reaction as you walk down the aisle.

And to see your face as you walk down the aisle!

You’ll be able to relive that moment from the perspective of both of you.

Honestly, just having this moment documented in itself is worth getting a videographer - not to mention all the other points in this article.

### 3. To show your kids and grandkids one day.

We recommend the 3-5 minute film for this, and not the 30 minute :) But you’ll have it if you want to!

### 4. It’s impossible to see every aspect a videographer will see during your wedding day.

If you hire a videographer, you’ll have not only your memories from your point of video, but also those from what your videographer saw.

This doubles (or more) the precious memories you have of the most special day of your life.

### 5. To have the entire day captured, start to finish.

Having a videographer there for your entire day, start to finish, will let you have the entire day captured and recorded for your memories.

And if you have a team of 2-3 videographers, you’ll be able to get even more moments and details of the day captured.

From the getting-ready process to the reception, a videographer can help you ensure that you don't miss a single moment.

### 6. To have a record of your vows.

A videographer can capture the audio of your vows, allowing you to relive this special moment again and again.

### 7. To capture special performances.

If you have a friend or family member performing a song or dance at your wedding, or hired a band or other performer (one wedding we did this past year had a Mariachi band - awesome), your videographer will capture all of this for you to enjoy and re-live as part of your wedding films.

### 8. For your wedding website.

If you hire a videographer several months or a year in advance of your wedding, you can plan a time to record a short engagement video or welcome video for you to feature on your wedding website.

This can give guests a sneak peek, important details or announcements also.

And if you plan on using your wedding website after your wedding, a highlight video is the perfect thing to add to it. If not, you can still use it for things like social media stories.

### 9. To relive the most memorable day of your life.

A wedding video will allow you relive your wedding day over and over again. Much more than the photos, this lets you experience the joy and emotion of the most special day of your life, year after year into marriage.

### 10. To relive the emotions of the day.

Part of why I became a wedding videographer is that wedding videos contain so much emotion and meaning.

More than almost ay other video genre, wedding videos are some of the most emotional and meaningful.

Why?

Because it’s the most emotional and meaningful day of your life!

From tears of joy, to laughter, and everything in between.

As a videographer, it’s an honor to be able to capture that and create artwork from it that you can treasure forever.

### 11. To document the wedding party.

![Bridal Party](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672258065/content/posts/zoriana-stakhniv-d_9i9TaOxfI-unsplash_1_exvuoa.jpg)

A videographer can capture the wedding party: preparing for the big day, posing together, making fun of the groom, taking pictures with the bride — fun and memorable moments.

### 12. To capture a full film of the ceremony.

Imagine being able to relive your entire wedding ceremony as if you were watching it live.

When you hire a videographer to capture the entire ceremony, they will capture all of this. They’ll also get it from a perspective that you may not have been able to notice in the moment - things like the walk down the aisle, and the exchange of vows, the audience’s reactions, etc.

It’s a level of storytelling that’s far beyond just simply photographs.

And when you hire my company S3 Weddings and get our Full Ceremony package - we record the full thing in 3-4 camera angles and professional audio.

So it’s literally like watching a feature film where you and your spouse are the stars.

### 13. To get every part of the reception.

![Wedding Reception](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672258065/content/posts/allef-vinicius-DmUbkltYsKI-unsplash_1_a7zti9.jpg)

The reception goes by like a blur. Trust me, you will want to relive at least several parts of it.

When you have a videographer, not only do they capture the entire reception, but they can create a special edit of any part of it. This includes things like your first dance, other dances, the toasts, speeches, cutting the cake, and any other special moments. Again, it’s photographs taken to a completely new level.

### 14. To create multiple wedding films for you.

Typically, most wedding video packages will come with a highlight film, from 2-3 minutes in length (ours is 3-5min).

This is a short film highlighting the various parts of your wedding day.

Most couples also opt for a longer version, a feature-length film which can be 20-30 minutes or longer.

But the highlight film, 2-3min, is great for sharing on social media and with family and friends. Anything longer than 2-3 min will likely lose the attention of even your biggest fans.

### 15. To capture your guests’ reactions.

In the moment, you won’t be able to notice and every guest’s reaction. Even speaking to every guest during the reception is difficult!

That’s why your videographer is there. He or she can capture the reactions of your guests during both the ceremony and reception. These make for great additions to your wedding films.

### 16. To capture your first dance.

A videographer can capture the first dance in a way that photographs cannot, allowing you to relive the special moment over and over again.

### 17. To record and replay the speeches.

Your loved ones put so much time and effort into preparing their speeches. (Or, they just wing it). Either way, if the speech was any good at all, then you’ll wish you had it captured on video to re-watch.

And if you want to describe the speech to anyone who wasn’t there — you can just show them.

If a specific line or section of a speech stands out, that could also be included in your highlight film and feature film.

### 18. To capture any special traditions.

![Wedding Send-off](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672258065/content/posts/andreas-ronningen-S2YssLw97l4-unsplash_1_pbdjcm.jpg)

Doing a special tradition at your wedding? Or even a common one, like a bouquet toss?

Having that captured on video will mean you get to experience it again, and it makes for a fun part of your highlight film, too.

### 19. Getting married in a beautiful venue, or scenic location?

Hire a videographer who is highly skilled in creating cinematic films and re-live the beauty of where your wedding day was set.

Bonus: get drone footage if your location is a good spot for it!

### 20. To film all the details

![Wedding Details](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672258065/content/posts/marisa-morton-h-dR-XFJXis-unsplash_1_dplaig.jpg)

With all the time, effort, cost, and attention to detail that is put in to decor and details on your wedding day, having this on video can help you remember how amazing it all was, and how everything came together!

At the ceremony and before: your dress, the flowers, the decorations, the scenery.

At the reception: the decor, the food, the colors, the favors — you’ll be able to re-experience it all.

### 21. To create a video for social media

Want something to share with family and friends? Or especially for those who couldn’t make it?

The Highlight Film that most wedding video packages include, is perfect for social media.

At S3 Wedding Films, we have an option for a Social Media Teaser film. It’s 1 minute, so it fits on most platforms, and we deliver it the week of the wedding, so you can share it right away.

And if you’re feeling eager to share the excitement, we have an option to get everything the day after the wedding. I’m not sure how many others offer this - but we love doing it. Your family and friends are sure to love it too.

### 22. To capture the atmosphere of the day.

It’s true, photos can capture the feeling and emotion of the day and event. But video is best for the moments when there’s a specific atmosphere to capture and remember.

During the ceremony, the guests coming in, getting seated, waiting in anticipation.

And during the reception, whether it’s an intimate dance or a lively dance floor, a video is the best way to capture and relive your reception.

### 23. To capture the excitement, nerves, and emotions of the entire day, from before the ceremony to the end of the reception.

Getting ready, putting on your suit or dress, making sure you have your vows. So many unique and exciting feelings, that you really only experience the most on the beginning of your wedding day. Having this time captured on video can bring you back to those feelings and remember the excitement you had leading up before the ceremony.

### 24. To capture special small moments in between.

These are some of my favorite moments to capture as a videographer myself: a small joke or comment that you share with your spouse, in between photos or other things. Candid moments. Intimate conversations. Spontaneous dance parties. You or your spouse looking at the camera with excitement and nervousness, ready to walk in to the ceremony.

Moments like this are my favorite to capture and re-live.

### 25. To document your love story.

Consider incorporating some elements into your wedding video that give some of your story as a couple. Whether it’s how you met, how you fell in love, or even your journey planning your wedding together.

### 26. To create and show a same-day edit for your reception.

Have you heard of a same-day edit? This is a short film that your videographer will edit and produce on the same day as the wedding, to be shown during the reception. (Typically on a projector or large screen)

A same-day edit is a great way to give your guests a sneak peek of your wedding film, that you get to experience for the first time alongside all your guests. It’s sure to be a thrilling experience for all your guests and especially for you as a couple.

What goes into the same-day edit? Typically they include footage from you guys getting ready, the ceremony, and the reception, and formals of you and your spouse.

Not all videography teams offer same-day edits, as they take a lot of creative and production power to pull off. You’ll need a team with multiple cameras, multiple team members, and a dedicated, skilled video editor to sit at a laptop during your wedding to edit, to be ready in time for the reception.

### 27. Peer pressure

Or social proof, depending on how you look at it!

About [2 out of 3 couples](https://secretariat.video/blog/wedding-videography-statistics-2022) opt to hire a wedding videographer.

### 28. Express your creativity.

By selecting a videographer who aligns with your personal taste and style, and who will capture all the other ways you design and plan your wedding day - your personality and unique tastes will come through in the final video.

### 29. The average cost of a wedding videographer is less than that of a photographer.

The fact is, photography has been around for longer and is more established than video as a must-have for weddings.

But as you can see above, video is just as much of a must-have.

### 30. Many photographers or videographers offer both in one package.

If you already have a photographer or videographer in mind for your wedding, ask if they offer the other option too. If they’re a videographer, ask if they do photography. Often they have a team member, or partner, and can offer both in one package for you.

This saves you time and money, gives you one vendor to communicate with instead of two, and is easier for them to work with on the wedding day since they’re already used to working together.

### 31. If you’re having a destination wedding

If you’re having a destination wedding, video is a must-have to capture the fun and excitement of your days spent abroad!

### 32. It’s relatively inexpensive

Let’s say you hire a high-end videographer and get even the most expensive of wedding packages. It might seem like a lot in comparison to your other wedding costs. But - let’s say you don’t hire a videographer. In 20-30 years, how much would you give to be able to relive your day again?

In the moment, the cost seems like a lot, but thinking long-term, even an expensive package is a very small investment.

### 33. To ensure there are not any moments you miss.

You spend months, or years, planning every aspect of your day. But you won’t be able to experience it all firsthand. A wedding video will capture it all for you and allow you to see everything you didn’t get to the day of.

### 34. Loved ones who may have passed away.

I can’t tell you how many stories I have heard, where a grandparent or other relative passes away in the years after the wedding, and the wedding video footage is the best memory the couple has of them.

Smiling, laughing, having a good time celebrating you on your special day - this is a memory you will cherish.

Those small moments and interactions would otherwise be lost or forgotten in the blur of the day.

### 35. Feel like a movie star.

Your wedding film is a feature-style film where you and your spouse are the star. Enough said!

### 36. Recommended by wedding planners

Planners typically recommend hiring a videographer, as they’ve worked with so many couples to know what you’ll want the most, even better than you might know!

### 37. Customizable packages.

Can’t afford a 60-minute wedding feature film, but still want your day captured in a short 2-3minute highlight? You can find a videographer who can do this for you and make sure you still have the video as a memory.

### 38. Adding value to your wedding photography package.

A wedding video can enhance and complement your wedding photos - so you can enjoy both the photos and video together, more than you would if you have just gotten one of them.

### 39. Barely noticeable during the day.

This varies by videographer, as everyone has their own style. But many documentary-style videographers are discreet and unobtrusive during the wedding ceremony and reception.

They’ll do their best to capture the events of the day without drawing attention to themselves or getting in the way.

### 40. Hear kind words and well-wishes from family and friends during your reception.

You can ask your videographer to capture a few messages from your guests during the cocktail hour and reception. These make a great part of your longer feature-length wedding film.

### 41. Video is more and more popular today, and will only continue to grow.

With video making up more and more of the content we consume online - it’s definitely the future. As we become more and more used to video content, re-living your wedding day will become more and more desirable to you as time goes on, and your wedding video will be more and more valued.

### 42. Technology is growing so quickly, and video is improving.

![Camera Technology](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1672258745/content/posts/conor-luddy-IVaKksEZmZA-unsplash_dkz03n.jpg)

The tools available to videographers today are so much more advanced than they were even 5 years ago. Thus, the quality of wedding films continue to go up more and more, as the tools become better, and the artists hone their craft more and more. Now is a great time to get married!

### 43. Access it anytime, anywhere.

Video is such a flexible medium, you can easily have your video delivered to your phone, tablet, or any other personal device. Unlike an online gallery, a video can stay with you and be easily accessible anytime.

### 44. They work well with the photographer.

Videographers are very experienced in working together with your photographer to make sure we both capture the shots we need for you.

### 45. There are a range of styles and types of wedding videography.

Some videographers like to specialize in a particular style, whereas others have a more general and utilitarian style.

If you take time to familiarize yourself with a few, and pick one you like - you’re sure to find one you resonate with.

### 46. A creative outlet.

A wedding video can be a creative outlet for you to express your personalities and artistic vision as a couple. The styles, colors, decor, and all the creative decisions you make for your special day will come through in your video!

### 47. As a surprise gift for your partner.

Who says you have to tell your partner you hired a videographer?

### 48. You can be sure you’re hiring the right one.

With online portfolios, reviews and ratings, and even phone and zoom calls to get to know your videographer - it’s easy to make sure you are hiring the right person and have full confidence that your videographer will capture your wedding day perfectly.

### 49. The process of hiring is straightforward and easy.

The process varies by videographer. But for us, it’s a simple contract and online payment form, and you’re set!

### 50. You’re reading this article!

If you’ve made it this far, let’s face it - we were made for each other!

[Click here](https://secretariat.video/contact) and set up a call with us today. We’d be honored to document your wedding day for you.


Wondering whether you should hire a videographer for your wedding? Look no further.

50 Reasons to Hire a Videographer for your Wedding


## What makes a cinematic wedding venue?

When choosing a wedding venue, there are the typical factors: overall aesthetic and style, the look and feel of the venue, options offered for catering and coordination, how many guests can be accommodated, and more.

But there are also factors that will influence how your photos and video will look too.

In other words, how beautiful the venue will look on camera.

So what are some factors that go into a venue that looks cinematic and stunning in photos and video?

First, indoor vs outdoor makes a big difference. Both are good - but you should know which look you are going for.

Indoor venues can be beautiful - as long as they are well-lit. A dark, dimly lit reception ballroom won’t make for the best photos. On the other hand, a room with large windows like the St. Regis hotel (#8 on the list below) can make for beautiful lighting.

Another consideration is location and scenery outdoors. Are there beautiful nature scapes surrounding the venue? Or maybe it’s tucked away in a beautiful garden area, such as Meadowlark Gardens (#5).

And if **drone videography** is important to you, you’ll want to pick a venue outside of most major cities and away from any airports, as these will be a no-fly zone for drones.

## Before booking a venue

It’s great to talk to your planner as well as photographer and videographer before booking your venue. You can often get feedback as many vendors may have worked with some of these venues in the past. Often, vendors can share their experiences or their photography or video of the weddings they’ve done at the venue you are considering.

If you already booked the venue, no worries - your wedding team will still be able to talk with you about your venue! (Although if you already have a venue, I’m not sure why you are reading this particular post)… 😅

## Top 13 Cinematic Wedding Venues in the DC, Maryland, & Northern Virginia Areas

### 1. **Lansdowne Resort + Spa**

![Lansdowne Resort + Spa](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669177656/content/posts/venues/lansdowne_zr8fkb.jpg)

Lansdowne is a beautiful resort and country club tucked away in the Leesburg, VA region. The venue is the perfect secluded getaway that offers everything you might need for a gorgeous country wedding.

See more information on [their weddings page](https://lansdowneresort.com/weddings/).

### 2. **The Fairmont Washington, D.C.**

![The Fairmont Washington, D.C.](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669177904/content/posts/venues/fairmont_ctgojh.svg)

We love filming here! This hotel is luxurious to the smallest details.

The hotel has accessible parking for guests, making for a good guest experience. It also features a beautifully lit open entrance area.

[Learn more](https://www.fairmont.com/washington/weddings/) and take a virtual tour on their weddings page.

### 3. **The Sequoia**

![The Sequoia](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669178105/content/posts/venues/Untitled_1_1_csezbv.jpg)

From their website: “Newly renovated Sequoia provides an exquisite setting and the finest of American cuisine, perfect for your Special Event.”

[View their website here](https://sequoiadc.com), or view their impressive [Weddings PDF](https://sequoiadc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/Ark_Sequoia-Events_Brochure_052622A-small.pdf).

### 4. **Regency at Dominion Valley**

![Regency at Dominion Valley](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669178293/content/posts/venues/clubhouse_bridge-retouch_1_nmycqg.jpg)

Regency is a venue with a beautiful surrounding landscape and very nicely lit indoor rooms as well.

Located less than an hour outside DC, in Haymarket VA, Regency makes for an exquisite country wedding location.

They can accommodate anywhere from 10 to 240 guests.

Learn more by [visiting their site here](https://www.regencydvonline.com/Private_Events).

### 5. **Manor Country Club**

![Manor Country Club](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669178435/content/posts/venues/getImage_1_oii2i2.jpg)

Located in Rockville, MD, just a short drive from downtown DC, Manor Country Club has everything you need for a beautiful and cinematic wedding experience.

[View their weddings page](https://www.manorcc.org/weddings) to see more.

### 6. **Glen Ellen Farm**

![Glen Ellen Farm](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669179739/content/posts/venues/glen-ellen_oya1qt.jpg)

This one is a bit further from DC, in Frederick MD. But it’s well worth the drive, as it makes for beautiful outdoor weddings.

[We shot Dianne and Brian’s wedding here](https://secretariat.video/portfolio/dianne-brian-highlight), and we love how it turned out! The experience was wonderful for guests and vendors alike.

### 7. **St. Regis Washington**

![St. Regis Washington](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669180010/content/posts/venues/st-regis_1_iz0kgc.jpg)

The St. Regis is a high-end venue in the heart of DC, and can accommodate the most luxurious of weddings.

Open for up to 300 guests, the meeting rooms here are quite beautiful as well.

Learn more [on Marriott’s website](https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/wassx-the-st-regis-washington-dc/overview/).

### 8. **The Hotel Washington**

![The Hotel Washington](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669211015/content/posts/venues/hotel-washington_jrzzgw.jpg)

Also located in downtown DC, the Hotel Washington is another luxury wedding venue.

According to [their website](https://www.thehotelwashington.com/washington-dc-wedding-venue), they offer three magnificent wedding venues as well as a dedicated wedding specialist.

Your guests will be sure to have a good time, and the architecture makes for beautiful photos and video.

### 9. **Snowy Owl Farm**

![Snowy Owl Farm](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669182746/content/posts/venues/snowy-owl-800_qiu74r.jpg)

Snowy Owl Farm is a newer venue that recently opened. We had the privilege of filming a wedding here back in October alongside wonderful photographers Chelsea and Andrew of [Chelsea Diane Photography](https://chelseadianephotography.com/).

It’s a beautiful venue and an excellent spot for drone footage!

### 10. **Meadowlark Gardens**

![Meadowlark Gardens](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669211153/content/posts/venues/Meadowlark-7223-X3_jvebkg.jpg)

Meadowlark, located in the Tysons VA area, has beautiful sprawling gardens that make for wonderful formals.

It also offers [an incredible atrium](https://www.novaparks.com/weddings-catering/the-atrium-at-meadowlark) with huge windows that make for amazing lighting for photography and video.

### 11. **Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Capitol Riverfront**

![Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Capitol Riverfront](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669211207/content/posts/venues/rooftop-hero-shot_yvob7v.jpg)

This is another venue with a beautiful view of the Riverfront in downtown DC.

They offer a range of event packages and a delightful experience for guests.

[See their website](https://www.cambriadccapitolriverfront.com/meetings-and-events/packages) for more photos and info on the hotel.

### 12. **Conrad Washington DC**

![Conrad Washington DC](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669211284/content/posts/venues/WASCI_Gallery_mczfol.jpg)

The Conrad, also a newer DC hotel and wedding venue, offers several high-end event spaces — including a rooftop event terrace with a view of the Capitol.

[View their website](https://conradwashingtondc.com/gather/weddings-social-gatherings/) to see more.

### 13. **Monte Ventoso**

![Monte Ventoso](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669211378/content/posts/venues/monte-ventoso_yfzift.jpg)

A beautiful venue the middle of VA, this one is a bit further from DC, but has so many amenities for a perfect wedding.

See more info and photos on [their weddings page](https://www.themonteventoso.com/weddings).

### 14. **Whistling Wren Farm**

![Whistling Wren Farm](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669211623/content/posts/venues/whistling-wren_heucvw.jpg)

Located in Keedysville MD, this beautiful farmhouse venue was the location of a recent fall wedding we filmed.

We loved filming the beautiful scenery here and had a great time doing it.

See more on their website [here](https://secretariat.video/portfolio/ashton-cameron-highlight).

### 15. **Historic Tuckahoe Plantation**

![Historic Tuckahoe Plantation](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1669180823/content/posts/venues/tuckahoe_gqlgyk.jpg)

Historic Tuckahoe Plantation can accommodate even up to 500 guests.

You can find many examples of beautiful outdoor weddings here through [their website](https://www.visithistorictuckahoe.com/plan-your-event/).

## Summary

Whatever your vision for your wedding, we hope this list helps give you ideas and inspiration to help you along the wedding planning journey.

We’d love to come alongside you and provide more personalized help too - feel free to reach out to us via the Contact page.


Looking for a beautiful, cinematic venue near the Washington DC area? Here are 15 great choices.

15 Incredibly Cinematic Wedding Venues in the DC Area


Bridal prep is a special time for you as the bride, and your closest friends and family. It’s a time to relax, get ready for the big day, and celebrate with those who love you most.

The day you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived! If you’re anything like many brides, you’ve had this day planned out in your head (or on Pinterest) for years. You know exactly what you want your wedding to look like and feel like. You’ve planned and prepared and prepared and planned. And now it’s time for it all to come together.

## What goes into the Getting Ready photos

When it comes to your wedding photos, a major part of any wedding gallery is the “Getting Ready” shots. Aside from venue detail shots, typically the beginning of your gallery will include a good amount of Getting Ready photos.

These are the photos when your hair and makeup is getting done, bridesmaids doing the same, and then getting into your dress and final touches. During this time, your photographer will be there to capture these memories through their artistic vision.

However, as a bride, there are a few things you can do (aside from hiring a great photographer) to ensure the images come out beautifully.

Just so we’re on the same page, Getting Ready photos can include any of the following:

- Arriving to the venue
- Unpacking and setting up
- Snacks / drinks, chatting with your bridesmaids
- Hair styling
- Getting makeup done
- Posed images of everyone in their robes
- Getting into your dress
- Bridesmaids putting on their dresses
- Attaching your veil
- Final touches
- And at the end, posed photos of you and your bridesmaids, and you yourself, just before you go out to walk down the aisle.

## Tips to get the best Getting Ready photos

### First tip: Get a venue with a good bridal suite.

The room really makes all the difference, and is one of the biggest factors here.

One of the most important things is that the room is **spacious.** You’ll want not only a spacious room, one in which the photographer has space to move around everyone, get the angles they need, and arrange you and the setup in artistic ways as they shoot.

Also, if the room is well-lit, that’s a major plus too. Large windows make for the best images, but even just a brightly lit room will do. Generally, the brighter the room, the better the images will turn out.

The photographer will be able to use a flash if the room is too dark, but ideally, you’ll want to start with as much natural light as possible.

### Tip 2: Keep that room clean (or at least clutter-free)

The more neat the room is kept, the less of a chance any clutter has of showing up in the background of your images.

Just having a trash can and a designated place to put all your snacks and drinks, helps a lot!

### Tip 3: Personalize

A few small touches of personalization here and there will go a long way and can look super aesthetic in your photos. Personalized robes with your names or initials, bags, tumblers, even makeup bags, can add a really nice and special touch to your getting ready time.

What’s a great resource for this? [Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/)! Can’t go wrong here.

### Tip 4: Communicate details with your photographer beforehand.

This should probably be Tip 1 because it’s one of the most important!

If there’s any special items you’ve prepared, gifts for bridesmaids, heirlooms, or even matching robes, let the photographer know your plans so he/she can make sure to capture those items and special moments!

Also, making sure your photographer has everything they need, will help them focus on you, your bridesmaids, and capturing the emotions and memories of the time, in the best and most artistic way.

### Tip 5: Get those items ready for your photographer

It’s super helpful for the photographer if you have all your special items ready and prepared together, so your photographer can quickly arrange them as they like and take photos. This includes things like vow notebooks, jewelry, shoes, rings, any heirlooms, and any other items that are special to you.

### Tip 6: Allow plenty of time.

Don’t try to pack your timeline too tight and not give enough time for the getting ready portion of the day. It’s important, and you’ll want to make sure you have the time you need. This will avoid you feeling rushed too, and will allow for a stress-free and overall better experience leading up to your ceremony.

### Tip 7: Stay on schedule.

Along the same lines as the last tip - once you have your timeline, stick to it!

No guests enjoy waiting in their seats for 45 minutes because the bride is running behind schedule. And as a bride, in that position, you’ll be adding unnecessary stress to your day as well. Ensure you arrive on time to the and stick to the schedule from the beginning so the moments before your ceremony don’t have to be rushed.

### Tip 8: Get your hair and makeup done early

Most brides prefer most of their getting-ready photos to be taken once their hair and makeup is mostly done - so they look how they will for the rest of the day.

Since hair and makeup often take a good amount of time, having them done early allows the rest of the time to flow smoothly and gives you plenty of time for all the photos you want.

Getting hair and makeup done early also helps the rest of the day stay on schedule. 👍

### Tip 9: Choose a photographer who will have a team of 2 or more.

This isn’t an absolute must, but if your photography team is 2 or more, then they can both be dedicated to capturing your getting ready time as well as the groom’s and groomsmen’s. As a photographer who’s shot plenty of weddings solo, it’s always nicer to have two, because it’s very easy to miss small moments here and there because you’re running back and forth between the two buildings or rooms. Or, if the bride and groom are getting ready at separate locations altogether, this can make it really tough to capture the full story of both times individually.

### Tip 10: Relax and have fun!

Ok, this is for sure the most important! If you’re stressed, it will for sure show in the photos. If you are relaxed and enjoying yourself during this time, your photos will be ABSOLUTELY 100% better. As a photographer and cinematographer, I’ve witnessed it at so many weddings. The difference is truly night and day.

## Conclusion

Honestly, if you pick just 3-4 of these and do them, you’ll be ahead of so many brides. And it will for sure show in your photographs.

But if I had to pick just one, it would be #10. No matter what, this is your day. It’s a day that you should enjoy. And it’s a day that you should remember and treasure for the rest of your life. That’s what your wedding photography gallery will allow you to do. And with some planning and preparation through the tips in this article, you’ll be able to ensure that your wedding gallery comes out in a beautiful way that truly reflects you and your special day.


These 10 tips will help you prepare well, so you can relax, have fun, and have your wedding photos turn out beautifully.

Bridal Prep: How to get the best Getting-Ready Photos


Out of all the parts of your day you prepare for - the ceremony is one of the most intimate, special, and memorable. With good preparation, you can make sure your ceremony goes off without a hitch, and ensure that you and your guests can focus on the reason you are all there - which is you and your spouse!

On the other hand, if you forget any of the items below, they can often cause an unnecessary distraction during your ceremony.

As a wedding cinematographer, I've witnessed countless ceremonies go off perfectly, as well as many that didn't. For those that didn't, they often were one of these 3 things.

Ok, on to the first one!

# Pick the right officiant.

Ok, so the mistake to avoid would be 'picking the wrong officiant.' But I don't think it's about that as much as it is about picking one who is perfect for you.

You want an officiant who _knows_ you. Ideally someone who's been a part of your life already. Someone who can speak to you both, who has perspective on your journey, and who can give your guests deeper insight into who you are as a couple.

Pro tip: chat with the officiant about what he/she will discuss during the ceremony.

# Mic check!

Super important - don't forget a mic check on the day of.

This is a small detail, and won't be an issue at all if you've hired a good DJ.

But if you're using a church or venue audio system and have a volunteer running the audio - you'll want to speak with them first and make sure they'll be doing a thorough sound check before the event starts.

This is definitely something you shouldn't have to worry about on your special day - so just prepare well for it, communicate with those you need to, and you'll be all set!

# Cell phones and cameras.

No guest wants to be that person whose phone goes off during the ceremony. Yet, in so many ceremonies this is a predictable feature.

Same with cameras - some guests love to stand up, walk behind you as you're coming down the aisle, or pick the "perfect" spot to get their angle. Unfortunately, this often gets in the way of the photographer and videographer, and at the very least, causes unnecessary distraction during the ceremony.

How can you avoid these? The best way is to communicate it in multiple ways.

- You can include it in your email announcements or on your wedding website.
- You can put it on a sign as guests enter the ceremony location.
- You can have the officiant announce it at the beginning of the ceremony also.

Most guests have the best intentions, so a few friendly reminders go a long way.

Summary

Honestly, if you plan for these three things, you'll be avoiding 90% of the most common ceremony mistakes.

Now the rest of your focus can be freed up to plan for those parts of the ceremony that are creative and special for you both. And during the ceremony, your focus can be right where it should be - on each other.


This quick article will save you an embarrassing moment!

Three Errors to Avoid in Preparing for your Wedding Ceremony


**Quick link:** [Click here to view the Canva template and make your own copy to use.](https://www.canva.com/design/DAFVOP9jSGE/d3oYKPkaPmIZ_0Lt2Lf1Pg/view).

As you begin your journey of planning your wedding, one major task (a daunting one for many couples!) is to create a guest list.

It can be tough: finding a good balance.

A balance between your desire to invite everyone you know and love —

Vs not going crazy over budget.

For many couples, this is time-consuming and often challenging.

That's why I created this free wedding guest list template.

It will allow you to arrange your guest list and keep track of RSVPs — to help make this task a little bit simpler for you.

## Why use a template for your guest list?

Quite simply, because you have a million things to think about and this will make your life easier.

Using template to create and manage your guest list will help you keep track of all the important details about your guests without you having to keep track of it mentally. (Or worse, not track it at all).

It’ll also make it easier to communicate with them as your special day approaches. You’ll be able to easily reference their name, contact info, status of their RSVP, etc.

Think of it as a central location for their contact information and RSVP status.

Looking to ensure you stay within your budget? A guest list tracker like this one will give you a clear and accurate record of all the guests you’ve invited, as well as who has RSVP'd, with which you can adjust your budget accordingly as you go through the planning process.

Staying organized and on top of all the various tasks and aspects of planning, is seriously underrated. It will help you have so much more peace of mind leading up to your wedding day!

## Why a Canva template?

There are so many wedding planning templates online. But Canva is one of our favorite tools for this.

You can simply bookmark the page, and continuously edit the template as needed, downloading anytime you need.

## About the Template

The template has several distinct components, including:

### 1. Contact Information

Include the names and phone numbers of all of your visitors in this area. Their name, address, phone number, and email address can all be recorded here.

### 2. Relationship

Describe each visitor's relationship to you or your partner in this area.

Use this to organize your guest list by priority. It will also help you decide who to invite to various activities (such the rehearsal dinner).

### 3. RSVP Invitation Status

Keep track of each visitor's status here. Record if you have issued invitations to them and if they have accepted them.

Additionally, you can use this box to mention any specific needs for accommodations, including dietary restrictions or accessibility needs.

### 4. Number of Guests

Specify the max number of guests that each invitee may bring in this field. This is crucial if your venue's capacity or finances are both constrained.

### 5. Notes

This part can be utilized to make any notes or remarks about every visitor, like any unique requests or requirements.

## How to Use this Guest List Template

To utilize this template, you have two options.

First, you can download it and fill it in using a PDF editor, like Adobe Acrobat.

You can download a PDF version [here](https://asset.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/9bf5f09bad72006735b40b815c0a71a7).

Not the most user-friendly option though, unless you are very familiar with tools like Acrobat.

Second, and the one I would recommend, is to edit it on Canva. [Click here open it on Canva.](https://www.canva.com/design/DAFVOP9jSGE/d3oYKPkaPmIZ_0Lt2Lf1Pg/view). From there, just click Edit on Canva and start editing.

The document can live on Canva - you can bookmark the link. And as you get RSVPs, you can refresh and update the status of each as needed.

Utilizing a list of people to attend format can assist with making the most common way of making and dealing with your list if people to attend a lot simpler and more coordinated. It can likewise be a useful device for speaking with your accomplice and different individuals from your wedding party, as you can share the bookkeeping sheet and team up on the list of attendees continuously.

## Next Steps

We hope this free wedding guest list template is useful as you continue your journey with wedding planning. Please reach out to us if you have any questions or suggestions for it.

We typically recommend couples start on their guest list very early on.

If that’s you, great! Some next steps for you will likely be things like planning for dresses and suits, wedding colors, and even picking a venue if you haven’t done that yet.

In addition, if you haven’t booked a photographer or videographer yet, we would recommend doing that early in the process as well :)

I’d love to chat with you about your wedding and how can document the most memorable day of your life for you.

Reach out now via the contact page and we’ll set up a time to chat!


Use this template to organize and track your guest list.

Free Wedding Guest List Template


## 1\. Secretariat Media

If your wedding cinematographer doesn’t think they’re #1 then you might want to hire someone else!!

All jokes aside, here are a few reasons why we are #1:

- We are classically trained in photography and cinematography with over 10 years’ experience in visual media — all to create one masterpiece for you.
- We are available 24/7 for communication via text, facebook messenger, and email. No more waiting around for your vendor to get back to you. Not with us.
- We are 100% committed to going to extra mile to ensure your wedding day is perfect and you get the absolute best video to remember it with.
- We operate with state-of-the-art equipment capable of 4K/5K resolution (as an available option)
- We offer engagement sessions — these are so much fun and can add so much depth to your wedding video!
- We offer a social media teaser video that is edited and delivered within ONE DAY after your wedding.

Ready to take the next step? [Contact us today](/contact), let us know your date, and we’ll schedule a chat with you to see if we will be a good fit!

Ok, enough about us! On with the rest of the list :)

‍

## 2\. Paperboys

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1671811480/Paperboys_Wordmark_uty2ri.png)

Paperboys is a team of photographers and videographers providing boutique services to clients in the Washington DC area and more. View their work on [their website](https://www.paperboys.co/).

‍

## 3\. Harrison Films

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1668490463/62fbd9bf807b0537c95a6ee5_harrisonfilms_dark_gray_hbysyh.png)

From [their website](https://www.harrisonweddingfilms.com/): “While our style is cinematic and nuanced, our approach on wedding days is comfortable and collaborative.”

‍

## 4\. Ten Twenty Seven Films

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1668490481/62fbd9d1a6299bcba3e264d6_TTSF___Wedding_Logo_ijfbyp.png)

Ten Twenty Seven Films is a team of cinematographers who are “classically trained filmmakers with a contemporary, award-winning portfolio.” View their website [here](https://tentwentysevenfilms.com/).

‍

## 5\. Capital Films

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1668490501/capital-films-dc_jka3zf.jpg)

Capital Films DC is a photo and video company in DC run by Paul and Kelli McFall. You can read their story and look over their work and services on [their website](https://www.capitalfilmsdc.com/).

‍

## 6\. Riverlight Films

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1668490541/riverlight-films_nv6cwh.png)

Riverlight Films, based in both DC and NYC, offers a variety of cinematography packages with [an impressive portfolio](https://www.riverlightfilms.com/films) to back it up.

‍

## 7\. Sage & Silhouettes

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1668490568/sage-silhouettes_o5joxh.png)

Based in the DC area but serving all of North America, Sage & Silhouettes has a portfolio with a wide array of wedding films. View their work on [their website](https://sageandsilhouettes.com/).

‍

## 8\. Bowen Films

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1668490587/bowen-films_otpxbp.jpg)

From their About page: “We are a small group of artists with a passion for storytelling, specializing in one of a kind wedding films, and we are proud to be family owned and operated.” [Learn more and view their work](https://www.bowenfilms.net/) on their website.

‍

## 9\. 87 & Smith

According to Kyle on the 87 & Smith website, “While the DC metro area is home to me, we can film anywhere domestically or internationally.” Take a look at [their portfolio](https://www.87andsmith.com/films).

‍

## 10\. Monachetti Films

![](https://res.cloudinary.com/dakfmjumy/image/upload/v1668490698/monachetti_lpcloy.svg)

Founded by DC local Michael Eller, [Monachetti Films](https://monachetti.com/) describes themselves as “a small collective of artists, who all share a common passion for creating high quality, highly diverse wedding videos.”


Looking for a top wedding cinematographer near Washington DC? Look no further.

Updated for 2023: The 10 Best Wedding Cinematographers in Washington, DC


What has been one HUGE trend in weddings in the past several years?

Video.

Yes, wedding videos have existed for a long time, but in the past several years, they have greatly increased in popularity.

In fact, 98% of brides recommend video as something brides-to-be should consider for their wedding (see sources below).

Let’s take a look at a few key statistics for wedding videography.

## Quick statistics

- In 2018, 63% of couples hired a wedding videographer, while 37% did not. From those who did not, 94% regretted their decision.
- 98% of brides recommend videography to other couples
- Before getting married, about 50% of brides considered wedding videography to be a top-10 expense, but after the wedding, that number climbed to 75%.
- The average cost of wedding videographers was $1900 last year, compared to $2500 for photographers.
- Wedding videographers tend to cost, on average, about $300-500 less than photographers.

Sources: [WEVA](http://www.weva.com/cgi-bin/newsreader.pl?storyid=3172&type=o), [Wedding Photography and Films](https://www.weddingphotographyandfilms.com/wedding-blog/is-wedding-videography-worth-the-cost-for-your-wedding)

## Wedding Video Costs

One of the primary considerations for most brides who are considering a videographer, is cost. How much do you charge? What are the various package options? Is tipping a standard practice?

Here are some statistics regarding pricing for wedding videography:

- The average cost of a wedding videographer is between $1446-$1910.
- From 2017 to 2019, the average cost of a videographer according to weddingwire stayed the same at $1800.
- According to theKnot, based on over 15,000 couples who got married last year, the average cost for wedding video was $1900.
- Wedding videographers tend to cost, on average, about $300-500 less than photographers.
- theKnot reports the average cost for wedding video at $600 less than wedding photography, which averages at $2500.
- Tipping: it is not standard practice to tip either a videographer or a photographer.

Sources: [WeddingStats](https://www.weddingstats.org/cost-of-a-wedding-videographer/), [Wedding Photography and Films](https://www.weddingphotographyandfilms.com/wedding-blog/is-wedding-videography-worth-the-cost-for-your-wedding), [theKnot](https://www.theknot.com/content/average-cost-wedding-videographer), [theKnot](https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-vendor-tipping-cheat-sheet), [weddingwire](https://go.weddingwire.com/newlywed-report/2020)

## Wedding Videography Popularity and Trends

How many people hire a videographer? While there seem to be mixed opinions pre-wedding, most brides who didn’t hire a videographer tend to wish they had. You can find many stories such as [this one](http://www.ashleynicoleaffair.com/blog/hireavideographer) and [this list of wedding regrets](https://sperrytentsseacoast.com/brides-tell-all-biggest-wedding-regrets/) to show that this seems to be a trend.

- Millennials were the most likely generation to hire a wedding videographer in 2021, at 42%.
- According to Forbes, in 2015, 1 in 3 couples hired a wedding videographer.
- In 2018, that number was 63% according to The Wedding Report.
- After the wedding, 98% of brides recommend videography to other couples.
- According to weddingwire, 43% of videographers offer drone footage.

Sources: [Forbes](https://www.forbes.com/sites/winniesun/2016/04/06/wedding-18000-people/), [Wedding Photography and Films](https://www.weddingphotographyandfilms.com/wedding-blog/is-wedding-videography-worth-the-cost-for-your-wedding#:~:text=First%2C%20a%20Few%20Stats,video%20for%20their%20wedding%20day.), [weddingwire](https://www.weddingwire.com/cost/wedding-videographer)

## Summary

This year is sure to be a popular year for weddings. For 2022, [theKnot expects](https://www.theknot.com/content/wedding-data-insights/real-weddings-study) 2.6 million weddings — up from 2.2 million per year before the pandemic. The projected surge of weddings this year is even creating a [vendor shortage issue](https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/23/style/wedding-boom-vendor-shortage.html) in some areas.

Whether you are a bride- or groom-to-be, vendor, or wedding attendee this year — 2022 is sure to be an exciting ride for the wedding industry.
