Chapter 12: Photography & Videography

NOTE: This chapter is a work in progress and some info is merely a placeholder, mostly done, but do read with a discerning eye.

Introduction

Long after your wedding day has passed, when the flowers have faded and the cake has been eaten, your photographs and videos remain as tangible connections to the emotions, details, and moments that made your celebration unique. These visual mementos become increasingly precious over time, allowing you to revisit your day and share it with future generations.

“Wedding photography isn’t just about documenting what happened,” explains veteran photographer Elena Morales. “It’s about capturing how it felt—the anticipation, joy, and connection that made your day meaningful. These images become part of your family history and shape how you remember one of life’s most significant milestones.”

This chapter will guide you through finding visual storytellers whose style resonates with your vision, planning for comprehensive coverage of your celebration, creating a photography timeline that ensures you capture essential moments while still enjoying your day, and understanding the deliverables that will preserve your memories for decades to come.

Defining Your Visual Storytelling Vision

Before researching specific photographers or videographers, take time to consider what style of visual storytelling will best represent your celebration.

Understanding Photography Styles

Wedding photography encompasses several distinctive approaches:

Traditional/Classic

Emphasis on posed, carefully composed images
Timeless, formal portraits
Structured group photographs
Attention to classic wedding moments and details
Consistently lit, well-balanced compositions

Photojournalistic/Documentary

Focus on candid, unposed moments
Emphasis on emotional storytelling
Minimal intervention or direction
Natural, available light whenever possible
Authentic interactions and reactions

Fine Art

Creative composition and artistic techniques
Often film-inspired or actual film photography
Unique perspectives and creative framing
Painterly quality with attention to light and form
Stylized color palette or black and white treatment

Contemporary/Editorial

Magazine-inspired compositions
Fashion-influenced posing and concepts
Bold lighting techniques
Modern, trendsetting approach
Dramatic, statement-making images

Most wedding photographers blend elements of these styles, with their primary approach complemented by techniques from other categories. Understanding these distinctions helps you identify what aesthetic speaks to you most strongly.

Videography Approaches

Similar stylistic variations exist in wedding videography:

Documentary/Journalistic

Natural, unscripted coverage
Minimal interference in events
Focus on authentic moments and reactions
Interview elements capturing genuine reflections
Emphasis on the day’s natural flow

Cinematic

Movie-like quality and storytelling
Creative camera movements and techniques
Artistic composition and framing
Narrative structure with emotional pacing
Carefully selected music enhancing the story

Short-Form

Condensed, highlight-style edit (typically 3-8 minutes)
Fast-paced, music-driven storytelling
Focus on visually striking moments
Social media-friendly format
Often paired with longer documentary coverage

Traditional

Comprehensive, chronological coverage
Less stylized, more complete documentation
Longer final films showing complete ceremonies
Focus on capturing events in their entirety
Emphasis on speeches and traditional moments

James and Miguel knew exactly what they wanted: “We’re both photographers ourselves, so we sought someone with a true photojournalistic approach—someone who would capture authentic moments without staging them. We wanted our wedding documented as it actually happened, with all its beautiful imperfections and genuine emotions.”

Identifying What Matters Most to You

As you explore visual styles, consider:

Which images move you emotionally when viewing other weddings
How comfortable you feel being posed versus captured candidly
What aspects of your wedding are most important to document
How you envision sharing and displaying your images long-term
Whether film, digital, or a mix appeals to your aesthetic sensibilities

Create a collection of sample images that resonate with you, noting specifically what draws you to each one—the lighting, composition, emotions captured, or overall mood. This reference point helps communicate your preferences to potential photographers.

Finding Your Perfect Photography and Videography Team

The right visual artists for your wedding combine technical skill with a personality that puts you at ease and an aesthetic that matches your vision.

Research Strategies Beyond Basic Internet Searches

Discover photographers and videographers through:

Venue recommendations: Most venues have preferred vendor lists of professionals familiar with their space
Planner suggestions: Wedding planners often have extensive vendor networks based on positive past experiences
Recent weddings at your venue: Research who photographed other celebrations in your specific location
Industry publications: Wedding blogs and magazines featuring real weddings in your area
Vendor teams: Ask photographers for videographer recommendations and vice versa, as they often work in compatible teams

Meredith found her photographer through an unexpected source: “I noticed that all my favorite images on my venue’s Instagram featured a certain quality of light. I asked who had taken those specific photos, which led me to our incredible photographer who already knew all the best spots at our location.”

Evaluating Portfolios Effectively

Look beyond surface appeal when reviewing visual work:

Consistency across multiple weddings, not just highlighted best images
Similar lighting conditions to your planned celebration (indoor/outdoor, day/night)
Comparable venues to yours, especially if yours presents specific challenges
Diverse couples and situations showing adaptability
Complete wedding galleries, not just curated highlights
Technical proficiency in challenging situations (low light, harsh midday sun)
Emotional impact and storytelling quality

Pro Tip: Ask to see 1-2 complete wedding galleries similar to your planned celebration. Selected portfolio images always represent a professional’s best work, but complete galleries reveal consistency and comprehensive coverage throughout an entire wedding day.

The Consultation Process

Use initial meetings to assess both work quality and personal compatibility:

Prepare specific questions about their approach and experience
Observe their listening skills when you describe your vision
Notice their communication style and responsiveness
Discuss their problem-solving approach for weather or timeline challenges
Assess their enthusiasm for your specific wedding plans
Consider compatibility with your personalities and comfort level

Remember that you’ll spend more time with your photographer on your wedding day than almost anyone else—including each other at times! Personal rapport matters significantly.

Key Questions for Visual Professionals

During consultations, ask these revealing questions:

About Their Experience

“How many weddings have you photographed as the primary photographer/videographer?”
“Have you worked at our venue or similar venues before?”
“Can you describe your backup systems for equipment failure or illness?”
“Do you work with an assistant or second shooter, and what is their role?”

About Their Approach

“How would you describe your directing/posing style?”
“How do you handle challenging lighting situations?”
“What’s your approach to family portraits and group photos?”
“How do you typically work alongside other vendors, particularly photographers and videographers?”

About Practicalities

“What’s included in your standard packages?”
“Who retains copyright, and what usage rights do we receive?”
“What is your typical timeline for delivering images/videos?”
“How do you handle overtime if our event runs longer than expected?”

Natasha appreciated her videographer’s transparency: “During our consultation, our videographer proactively addressed how he collaborates with photographers to ensure neither compromises the other’s work. He even suggested a pre-wedding call with our photographer to coordinate approaches, which showed real professionalism and concern for our overall experience.”

Photography and Videography Packages and Pricing

Understanding what’s typically included helps you make informed decisions when comparing services.

Standard Photography Package Components

Most professional wedding photography packages include:

Coverage hours: Typically ranging from 6-10 hours
Number of final images: Usually 50-100 images per hour of coverage
Editing and color correction: Basic processing of all delivered images
Online gallery: Digital delivery system for viewing and sharing
Print release: Permission to make personal prints
Second photographer: Sometimes included, sometimes an add-on
Engagement session: Often included in higher-tier packages

Common Photography Add-Ons

Consider these popular enhancements:

Additional coverage hours: For longer celebrations or more comprehensive documentation
Luxury albums and print products: Heirloom-quality physical mementos
Engagement or bridal portrait sessions: Pre-wedding photo opportunities
Specialized equipment: Drone coverage, film photography, specialty lenses
Rush editing: Accelerated delivery of your final images
Travel fees: For destinations beyond their standard coverage area
Rehearsal dinner coverage: Documenting pre-wedding celebrations

Videography Package Structures

Video packages typically include:

Coverage hours: Similar to photography (6-10 hours)
Final video length: Ranging from 3-5 minute highlights to feature-length films
Editing style: Specified approach to storytelling and pacing
Delivery format: Digital files, online hosting, or physical media
Additional videographers: For multiple angle coverage
Equipment specifications: Standard cameras versus specialty gear
Audio recording: Dedicated recording of vows, speeches, etc.

Understanding Wedding Visual Art Pricing

Wedding photography and videography pricing reflects:

Professional experience: More established artists typically command higher rates
Regional market factors: Significant variations based on your location
Coverage duration: More hours naturally increase cost
Deliverables included: Albums, prints, and physical products affect package pricing
Team size: Second shooters and assistants add to base costs
Editing style and complexity: More intensive processing requires additional time
Equipment and overhead: Insurance, high-end gear, and business costs

Most couples allocate 10-15% of their total wedding budget for photography and 10-15% for videography if including both. Nationally, the average investment ranges from $3,000-$6,000 for photography and similar for comprehensive videography, with significant regional variations.

Eduardo explains his decision-making process: “We initially thought we’d need to choose between photography and videography due to budget constraints. After reflection, we realized having both forms of documentation was important to us, so we adjusted other elements of our wedding to accommodate both. We selected midrange packages from professionals whose work we loved rather than premium packages from higher-priced vendors.”

Creating Your Photography Timeline

A thoughtful photography schedule ensures comprehensive coverage while maintaining your day’s natural flow.

Key Photography Timeframes

Plan sufficient time for essential photography phases:

Getting Ready: 1-2 hours

Detail shots (dress, accessories, invitations)
Candid preparation moments
Final dressing moments
Gifts or letter exchanges
Individual portraits in preparation setting

First Look (if chosen): 30-45 minutes

Private first sight moment
Couple’s immediate reactions
Initial portraits while emotions are fresh

Wedding Party: 30-45 minutes

Full group portraits
Individual pairings with couple
Casual and formal groupings

Family Portraits: 30-45 minutes

Immediate family groupings
Extended family combinations
Multigenerational photos

Couple’s Portraits: 30-45 minutes

Location variety if possible
Both posed and walking/interactive shots
Captures in the best available light

Reception Details: 15-30 minutes

Room setup before guest arrival
Tablescapes and decor elements
Special display items (guest book, favors)

Ceremony: Actual duration plus positioning time

Reception Coverage: Variable based on events

Grand entrance
First dance
Parent dances
Toasts and speeches
Cake cutting
Bouquet and garter traditions (if included)
Open dancing
Special exits or sendoffs

Pro Tip: Schedule a “light buffer” of 15 minutes before sunset for golden hour portraits, as this magical lighting creates some of the most stunning wedding images.

First Look vs. Traditional Timeline

Consider these two common photography scheduling approaches:

First Look Advantages

More efficient timeline with majority of photos before ceremony
Private moment to see each other without audience
Often calms nerves before the ceremony
Allows couple to join cocktail hour with guests
Provides flexibility if ceremony timing shifts

Traditional Timeline Advantages

Preserves the emotional impact of seeing each other at the ceremony
Honours cultural or religious practices that prefer this approach
Often preferred by couple’s families
Can create powerful ceremonial photos of first reaction
Typically requires less pre-ceremony preparation time

There’s no universally right choice—select the approach that feels most meaningful to you.

Family Portrait Planning

Create an efficient family photo experience:

Prepare a specific shot list with exact groupings and names
Designate a family coordinator who knows relatives by sight
Inform family members in advance about when and where to gather
Consider mobility issues when selecting location
Begin with largest groups then dismiss people as their photos are completed
Prioritize most important combinations early in case time runs short

Lucia shares her successful approach: “We created a shared document with our photographer listing every family photo combination we wanted, in the specific order they should happen. We assigned my brother to gather people and check them off the list. What could have been chaotic took exactly 28 minutes and captured every important family grouping.”

Weather Contingency Planning

Work with your photographer to develop backup plans:

Identify indoor portrait locations as weather alternatives
Research nearby covered options if your venue lacks indoor space
Discuss lighting solutions for dark interior settings
Consider time shift options if weather is predicted to improve
Embrace the elements when appropriate with creative rain or snow shots

Most experienced wedding photographers are adept at handling weather challenges and often create some of their most creative work under challenging conditions.

Coordinating Photography and Videography

When including both services, thoughtful coordination ensures each professional captures optimal coverage without interference.

Selecting Compatible Teams

Look for professionals who:

Have worked together previously or come as an established team
Express willingness to coordinate their approaches
Demonstrate respect for each other’s art forms
Have complementary rather than identical styles
Communicate clearly about their needs and workflows

Some studios offer both photography and videography services with teams already accustomed to working together, which can simplify your planning.

Technical Considerations for Dual Coverage

Address these practical aspects:

Audio recording responsibilities and equipment placement
Ceremony positioning for both teams without blocking guest views
Primary position agreements for key moments like first kiss
Communication systems between teams during the event
Shared access planning for important getting-ready moments

Schedule a joint call or meeting with both your photographer and videographer several weeks before your wedding to establish expectations and coordination strategies.

Managing Different Shooting Needs

Understand the distinct approaches of each medium:

Photography often requires brief moments of directed posing
Videography generally needs longer continuous sequences
Photo may prioritize perfect still compositions
Video often requires movement and transitions between scenes
Both need adequate lighting but may use it differently

Your timeline should accommodate both still and motion capture requirements, with each professional having dedicated time for their specific needs while collaborating during shared coverage.

Creating Your Shot List and Coverage Plan

While trusting your professionals’ expertise is important, providing guidance on your priorities ensures they capture what matters most to you.

Must-Have Shot Lists vs. Creative Freedom

Balance direction with artistic latitude:

Provide specific guidance for absolutely essential images
Identify key people who must be photographed
Communicate cultural or family traditions that require documentation
Share details with special significance that might not be obvious
Allow creative freedom for candid, emotional moment capture

Effective photographers appreciate knowing your priorities while maintaining space for spontaneous creativity and authentic moment documentation.

Candid vs. Posed Photography

Most couples prefer a blend of both approaches:

Candid Documentation

Natural interactions and genuine emotions
Unscripted moments between guests
Authentic reactions during key events
Unexpected, spontaneous occurrences

Directed Portraits

Family groupings and formal records
Couple portraits with optimal composition
Wedding party combinations and arrangements
Detail documentation of carefully created elements

The best wedding photography seamlessly integrates both approaches, creating a comprehensive visual story that feels authentic while ensuring traditional documentation needs are met.

Special Consideration Shots

Don’t forget these important but easily overlooked photo opportunities:

Both partners with their respective sides of the wedding party
Grandparents and elderly relatives early in the day while energy is high
Important guests who traveled far to attend your celebration
Behind-the-scenes moments of venue transformation
Both partners with siblings in dedicated photos
Multi-generational groupings that happen rarely
Details you invested significant time or budget creating

Michael and David created a shared digital document with their photographer: “We had a section for absolute must-have shots, a section for special details with sentimental value, and a third section for ‘if time allows’ wishes. This clarity helped our photographer understand our priorities while still giving her creative freedom.”

The Engagement Session Opportunity

Many photography packages include engagement sessions, which offer multiple benefits beyond just additional photos.

Benefits of Pre-Wedding Photo Sessions

Engagement sessions provide:

Opportunity to build rapport with your photographer before the wedding
Practice being photographed to increase comfort in front of the camera
Images for wedding-related uses like save-the-dates or guest books
Casual, everyday counterpoint to formal wedding attire photos
Chance to incorporate locations significant to your relationship

Rachel explains their decision: “Initially we considered skipping our engagement session to save time, but it proved invaluable. We learned which poses felt natural, got comfortable with our photographer’s direction style, and actually used the feedback to inform some of our wedding day choices about timing and locations.”

Making the Most of Engagement Photography

Maximize this opportunity by:

Selecting meaningful locations that reflect your relationship
Choosing complementary but not matching outfits in colors that photograph well
Bringing props or elements that represent your personalities or hobbies
Scheduling during optimal lighting (typically the hour before sunset)
Considering seasonal variety different from your wedding season
Planning multiple outfits for variety if time allows

Engagement sessions typically last 1-2 hours and work best when approached as a relaxed date that happens to be photographed rather than a formal photo session.

Understanding Wedding Photo and Video Deliverables

Knowing what you’ll receive and when helps set appropriate expectations for your final products.

Typical Delivery Timelines

Industry standards for delivery generally follow these timeframes:

Photography

Sneak peeks: 1-3 days after the wedding
Complete online gallery: 4-8 weeks after the wedding
Physical products (albums, prints): 2-3 months after design approval

Videography

Teaser trailer: 1-2 weeks after the wedding
Highlight film: 8-12 weeks after the wedding
Documentary edit (if included): 12-16 weeks after the wedding

These timelines may vary based on your professional’s workload, season, and complexity of editing required. Most contracts specify expected delivery windows.

Digital Files and Usage Rights

Understand your rights to your wedding imagery:

Copyright ownership: Typically remains with the photographer/videographer
Personal use license: Permission to print, share, and use images personally
Social media usage: Guidelines for online sharing and crediting
Commercial limitations: Restrictions on selling or promoting using the images
Editing restrictions: Policies on applying filters or altering delivered images

Most professionals provide high-resolution digital files with a personal use license, allowing you to make prints and share images while they retain copyright ownership.

Albums and Physical Products

Consider these heirloom-quality options:

Main wedding albums: Primary documentation of your day’s narrative
Parent albums: Smaller versions of your main album
Print collections: Curated selections for wall display
Custom boxes: Handcrafted containers for prints or digital storage
Specialty items: Photo guest books, thank you cards, or holiday cards

While digital files provide convenience, physical products often become the most meaningful ways families interact with wedding images over time. Many couples report that albums become more treasured as years pass.

Pro Tip: If budget constraints prevent ordering an album immediately, ask if your photographer will save your edited images for future album design. Many offer “album credits” that can be used later when finances allow.

Special Photography Considerations

Certain situations require specific planning or approaches to ensure optimal results.

Cultural and Religious Ceremony Considerations

Ensure your visual team understands:

Sacred moments that require respectful documentation
Cultural rituals with specific significance
Restrictions on photography/videography during certain ceremonies
Traditional must-capture moments in your cultural context
Family relationship dynamics specific to your background

Harpreet appreciated her photographer’s preparation: “Our photographer researched Sikh wedding traditions before our ceremony and understood exactly which moments held special significance. She even reached out to another photographer experienced with Indian weddings for guidance on lighting techniques for our indoor ceremony.”

Unplugged Ceremony Benefits

Consider requesting guests refrain from taking photos during your ceremony:

Prevents guests blocking professional shots with phones or tablets
Creates a more present, engaged audience for your ceremony
Eliminates distracting screen glow in professional images
Reduces social media sharing before you’ve seen your own photos
Allows your professionals clear views of emotional reactions

If choosing an unplugged ceremony, communicate this request through multiple channels: your website, signage at the ceremony entrance, a note in your program, and a gentle announcement before proceedings begin.

Destination Wedding Photography Planning

When celebrating away from home, plan for:

Travel arrangements for your chosen professionals
Local permit requirements for photography in public spaces
Backup vendor research in your destination location
Equipment transportation considerations and limitations
Timeline flexibility for weather or location-specific challenges

Many couples find bringing photographers from home worthwhile despite additional costs, as established relationship and style consistency often outweigh logistical challenges.

Working With Your Photography and Videography Team

Building a positive relationship with your visual storytellers enhances both your experience and your final results.

The Client-Artist Relationship

Foster productive collaboration by:

Communicating clearly about your priorities and concerns
Respecting professional expertise while expressing preferences
Providing appropriate guidance without micromanaging
Creating reasonable expectations about timeline and deliverables
Understanding technical and artistic limitations of different environments

Photographer Marcus explains: “My favorite clients approach our relationship as a creative partnership. They communicate what matters to them while trusting my experience with lighting, composition, and moment anticipation. This balanced approach consistently produces the most satisfying results for everyone.”

Day-of Interaction Guidelines

On your wedding day:

Introduce key family members to your photographer early
Have a designated contact person for photography questions or needs
Trust the professional process without checking every shot
Build sufficient time for portraits without feeling rushed
Remember that authentic emotion photographs beautifully

Your comfort and genuine experience directly affect the quality of your images. The more present and emotionally engaged you are in your celebration, the more powerful your photos and videos will be.

After the Wedding: Review and Feedback

Once you receive your images:

Take time to absorb the complete collection before forming judgments
Provide specific feedback about what you love for future album design
Address concerns directly if you have them
Remember that professionals want you to be delighted with your images
Share your favorites on social media with proper vendor credit

Most photography and videography concerns can be resolved through open communication, especially when approached collaboratively rather than critically.

Preserving and Sharing Your Wedding Memories

Your wedding imagery becomes more valuable over time, making proper preservation essential.

Digital Storage Best Practices

Protect your visual memories by:

Creating multiple backups in different physical locations
Using cloud storage solutions with automatic redundancy
Maintaining original high-resolution files separate from social media versions
Organizing images systematically for easy future access
Updating storage methods as technology evolves

Elena recommends: “Beyond your photographer’s gallery, immediately back up your wedding photos to at least three places: a dedicated hard drive kept at home, a cloud service with version history, and a third copy stored with a family member or in a different location. Digital media requires active preservation over time.”

Sharing Images With Loved Ones

Consider these thoughtful distribution approaches:

Online galleries with download access for family and friends
Curated highlight collections for social media sharing
Thoughtfully designed albums for parents and grandparents
Digital frames loaded with favorite images
Anniversary sharing traditions to revisit memories yearly

Thoughtful sharing extends the joy of your wedding day, allowing your community to revisit and celebrate your commitment for years to come.

Working With Wedding Publications

If interested in having your wedding featured:

Discuss publication interest with vendors before your wedding
Understand exclusivity requirements of different publications
Confirm image rights for submission purposes
Prepare vendor details for proper credit attribution
Follow submission guidelines for specific publications

Being featured in wedding publications can be a wonderful way to honor your vendors’ work while creating another permanent record of your celebration.

Conclusion

Your wedding photography and videography are perhaps the most enduring investments from your celebration—tangible connections to emotions, details, and moments that become increasingly precious as time passes. By thoughtfully selecting visual artists whose style and approach resonate with your vision, planning comprehensively for key moments, and understanding the deliverables that will preserve your memories, you create the foundation for wedding imagery that will delight and move you for decades to come.

Remember that the most powerful wedding images capture not just how your celebration looked, but how it felt—the authentic emotions, connections, and joy that made your day meaningful. When selecting and working with your visual storytellers, prioritize professionals who understand this deeper purpose of wedding documentation.

As photographer Elena Morales reminds her couples: “The best wedding photos aren’t just beautiful—they’re true. They capture the genuine essence of your relationship and celebration in a way that resonates both immediately and decades later. That authenticity is what transforms wedding photography from simple documentation into family treasures.”

Next Steps:

Define your preferred photography and videography styles
Research visual professionals whose work resonates with your vision
Schedule consultations with your top candidates
Begin planning your photography timeline based on your wedding schedule
Consider pre-wedding photo opportunities like engagement sessions