Videography Package Cost Guide

Wedding videography packages typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the coverage, quality, and deliverables included.

Common Wedding Videography Package Types

  • Basic Package ($2,500-$4,000)
    • 6-8 hours of coverage
    • 5-10 minute highlight film
    • Raw footage
    • Single videographer
  • Standard Package ($4,000-$6,000)
    • 8-10 hours of coverage
    • 10-15 minute highlight film
    • Multiple camera angles
    • Two videographers
    • Drone footage
  • Premium Package ($6,000-$10,000+)
    • Full day coverage
    • Feature-length film
    • Same-day edit for reception viewing
    • Multiple videographers
    • Advanced equipment

What Affects Wedding Video Pricing

  • Location and Travel Costs: Additional fees apply for destination weddings or venues outside the videographer’s service area
  • Equipment Quality: Professional cameras, audio gear, and lighting equipment impact the final cost
  • Team Size: More videographers mean better coverage but higher costs
  • Editing Time: Complex edits and multiple revisions increase the price

Money-Saving Tips

  1. Book during off-peak season (November-March)
  2. Choose shorter coverage hours
  3. Opt for raw footage instead of edited films
  4. Request a highlight reel only
  5. Book early for better rates and payment plans

Red Flags When Booking

  • Prices significantly below market average
  • No backup equipment mentioned
  • Unclear deliverable timeline
  • Missing or poor quality portfolio samples
  • No written contract offered

Contact professional wedding videography organizations like WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International) for verified vendor recommendations.

Deliverable Type Average Turnaround Time Additional Cost Range
Highlight Reel 4-8 weeks Included
Full Ceremony Edit 6-12 weeks $500-$1,000
Same-Day Edit Same day $1,000-$2,000
Raw Footage 1-2 weeks $200-$500

Additional Service Options

  • Pre-Wedding Coverage
    • Engagement video sessions
    • Rehearsal dinner filming
    • Getting-ready moments
    • Love story documentaries
  • Special Add-Ons
    • Live streaming services
    • 4K resolution upgrade
    • Extended raw footage storage
    • Custom music licensing

Booking Timeline

  • 12-18 months before: Research and shortlist videographers
  • 8-12 months before: Book main videographer
  • 3-6 months before: Planning meeting and location scouting
  • 1 month before: Final shot list and timeline review

Questions to Ask Before Booking

  • What is your backup plan for equipment failure?
  • How many weddings have you filmed?
  • What is your shooting and editing style?
  • Do you have insurance and permits?
  • What is your cancellation policy?

Conclusion

Investing in professional wedding videography ensures lasting memories of your special day. Consider your budget, desired coverage, and specific requirements when selecting a package. Always review contracts carefully, check references, and maintain clear communication with your chosen videographer throughout the planning process.

Remember that while cost is important, the quality and reliability of your wedding videographer should be the primary consideration, as these memories cannot be recreated.

FAQs

  1. What is the average cost of a wedding videography package?
    A standard wedding videography package typically ranges from $2,500 to $7,500, with the national average being around $4,000. Prices vary based on location, experience, and package inclusions.
  2. What’s typically included in a basic wedding videography package?
    A basic package usually includes 6-8 hours of coverage, a 5-10 minute highlight film, raw footage, and one videographer. Basic packages generally range from $2,500 to $3,500.
  3. How much should I budget for a luxury wedding videography package?
    Luxury wedding videography packages can range from $8,000 to $15,000+ and typically include multiple cinematographers, drone footage, same-day edits, extended coverage hours, and multiple final video formats.
  4. What additional costs should I consider beyond the base package price?
    Additional costs may include travel fees, extra hours ($250-500/hour), drone coverage ($300-500), raw footage ($500-1000), same-day edits ($1000-1500), and additional delivery formats ($200-400 each).
  5. How much do destination wedding videography packages cost?
    Destination wedding videography typically costs 25-50% more than local packages due to travel expenses, accommodation, and additional shooting days. Expect to pay $5,000-12,000 for destination coverage.
  6. What percentage of my total wedding budget should go to videography?
    Industry standards recommend allocating 10-12% of your total wedding budget for videography services. For a $30,000 wedding, this means $3,000-3,600 for video coverage.
  7. How does videographer experience affect package pricing?
    Entry-level videographers charge $1,500-2,500, mid-range professionals $2,500-5,000, and experienced cinematographers with 5+ years of experience charge $5,000-15,000+ for their packages.
  8. What’s the price difference between one and two videographers?
    Adding a second videographer typically increases the package cost by $750-1,500. Two-videographer packages usually start at $3,500 and can go up to $8,000+.
  9. How much do specialized video add-ons cost?
    Common add-ons include love story films ($800-1,500), rehearsal dinner coverage ($500-1,000), extended documentary edits ($1,000-2,000), and social media highlight reels ($300-500).
  10. What’s the typical deposit and payment structure for wedding videography?
    Most videographers require a 25-50% non-refundable deposit to secure the date, with the remaining balance due 2-4 weeks before the wedding. Some offer payment plans with 3-4 installments.

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