Planning your wedding videography 6 months in advance ensures you secure the best videographer, customize your package, and avoid last-minute stress. Here’s a quick summary of what to focus on:
- Find and Book a Videographer: Research styles, portfolios, reviews, and availability. Book early to lock in your date.
- Choose a Package: Decide on coverage hours, features (e.g., highlight films, drone footage), and extras like raw footage or teasers.
- Plan Your Video Style: Pick a style (e.g., cinematic, documentary) and share key moments, cultural elements, and music preferences.
- Set a Video Schedule: Coordinate with vendors, build a timeline, and add buffer time for unexpected delays.
- Finalize Details: Confirm contracts, payment terms, backup plans, and key shots.
Average Costs: Packages range from £1,590 (basic) to £4,800+ (premium). Extras like drone footage or Instagram clips can be added for additional fees.
Start early, stay organized, and communicate your vision to ensure your wedding video captures every special moment.
Wedding Preparation: 6 Months Before Your Wedding Checklist
Find and Book Your Videographer
Choosing the right videographer takes time and effort, but it’s worth it to ensure your wedding day is captured just the way you imagine. Here’s how to get started six months before your big day.
Start Your Search
Online platforms like WeddingWire and The Knot are great places to find highly-rated videographers. For example, WeddingWire highlights the top 5% of local wedding professionals with its Couples’ Choice Awards, while The Knot Best Of vendors provide another reliable list of options .
When browsing, focus on these factors:
- Shooting style: Do you prefer cinematic, documentary, traditional, or artistic approaches?
- Experience: How many weddings have they filmed?
- Client reviews: What are past clients saying about their work?
- Availability: Is your wedding date open on their calendar?
- Pricing and packages: Are their services within your budget?
Review Sample Work
A videographer’s portfolio can tell you a lot about their style and skills. Don’t just watch highlight reels – ask to see full-length wedding videos to get a complete picture of their storytelling abilities .
Here’s what to look for:
- Color grading: Is their editing consistent, and does it match your photographer’s aesthetic ?
- Audio quality: How well do they handle ceremony sound, music, and guest interviews?
- Transitions: Do you prefer smooth, subtle cuts or more dynamic scene changes ?
- Shot composition: Are both planned and candid moments captured beautifully?
Once you’ve reviewed their work, schedule consultations with your top picks.
Meet and Secure Your Date
During consultations, cover these key points:
- Share your wedding theme and highlight the moments you want captured.
- Ask about their equipment, backup plans, and how they’ll collaborate with your photographer.
- Confirm the delivery timeline and the format of the final product.
Make sure to carefully review the contract, paying attention to:
- Hours of coverage
- Deliverables (e.g., edited videos, raw footage)
- Payment terms
- Cancellation policies
- Usage rights
When everything looks good, sign the agreement to lock in your date!
Choose Your Video Package
Pick a wedding videography package that fits your needs, vision, and budget. On average, couples spend between £4,000 and £7,000 on wedding videography , though packages can start as low as £1,590 .
Package Options and Costs
Modern wedding video packages typically include essential features. Here’s a breakdown of options by price range:
| Package Level | Coverage Hours | Features Included | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | 6–7 hours | Single videographer, 3–4 minute highlight film | £1,590–£2,300 |
| Mid-Range | 8–9 hours | Two videographers, 5–6 minute highlight film, drone footage | £2,690–£3,750 |
| Premium | 9–10 hours | Two videographers, 6–7 minute feature film, raw footage, same-day teaser | £4,000–£4,800 |
You can also personalize your package with these extras:
- Instagram-ready clips: £150
- Drone coverage: £450
- Raw footage (original quality): £300
- Same-week teaser film: £500
“Highlights are the most popular wedding offering nowadays. Thanks to social media, these are the best shots of the day, key speeches or toasts, and beautiful shots of your venue, which when put together, is a five to 10-minute film. It’s long enough to show the day’s highlights but short enough to keep the viewer interested.”
– Jose Sotelo, co-owner of Story Alley Photography
Check Contract Details
Once you’ve chosen a package, go over the contract thoroughly to avoid surprises. Key points to confirm include:
- Delivery Timeline: Make sure you know when to expect your final videos and teasers.
- Revision Policy: Understand how many rounds of edits are included.
- Copyright Terms: Verify usage rights, especially for social media sharing.
- Backup Plans: Ensure there’s a plan for equipment issues or videographer emergencies.
“A contract needs a clear understanding of when the wedding films will be delivered. Include the number of revisions (if at all) are included. How they handle emergencies (like replacing the shooters if they cannot film on the wedding day), what films are included and package details.”
– Mary Angelini, Key Moment Films
Other important details to check include vendor meals, payment schedules, and location restrictions that might impact filming . If you plan to share your video online, confirm that music licensing rights are covered in the agreement.
Post-production is a major factor in the final quality of your video. As Cayla Cummings explains, “The ceremony and toast edits allow the videographer and the couple to enjoy the creative freedom of the highlight film without worrying about what ends up on the cutting room floor because they’ll still receive the full footage” .
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Plan Your Video Style
Your video style sets the tone for how you’ll remember your wedding day. Once you’ve chosen your videographer and package, defining your style will help create a polished final product.
Share Your Ideas
Decide on the video style that resonates with you. Here are a few popular options:
| Style | Description | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|
| Documentary | Captures candid, natural moments with little direction | Couples looking for genuine coverage |
| Cinematic | Features artistic shots paired with curated music | Those wanting a movie-like experience |
| Traditional | Focuses on classic key moments | Couples who prefer a timeless feel |
| Storytelling | Uses a narrative approach with pre-wedding elements | Couples wanting to share their journey |
When meeting with your videographer, bring visual references and be specific about your preferences. Highlight:
- Key moments like vows, first looks, or traditions
- Any cultural or religious elements that need attention
- Surprises planned for the day
- Preferred camera angles or styles
“To ensure your wedding video reflects your vision, communicate openly with your videographer. Share your expectations, preferred style, and any specific moments you want to be captured.” – Epik Weddings
Add Custom Elements
Make your wedding video personal by including unique touches, such as:
- Pre-wedding interviews with you and your partner
- Messages from family and close friends
- Behind-the-scenes footage of preparations
- Special cultural or ceremonial elements
“Music selection and client feedback about their favorite genres and artists are particularly helpful, as selecting music is often one of the first steps we take. Picking music that fits the theme of the day, couples’ preferences and the right cadence, build and emotional swell can separate a truly fantastic wedding film from the mediocre options out there.” – Matt Garza, Owner of New England Creative
Once you’ve nailed down your style and custom elements, focus on the soundtrack to tie everything together.
Select Your Music
The soundtrack is key to setting the mood of your wedding video. Here’s how to approach it:
- Match Music to Moments
Plan a music timeline that complements different parts of your day:- Getting ready: Choose soft, anticipatory tracks.
- Ceremony: Opt for meaningful or traditional pieces.
- Reception: Go for upbeat, celebratory songs.
- Consider Copyright
Work with your videographer to pick licensed music that’s legally cleared. This ensures you can share your video on social media without any issues. - Balance Audio Elements
“I want the music to support the wedding video, drive the emotion of the film, but, at the same time, I don’t want the music to be overpowering. It’s just one of the ingredients of a wedding, albeit an essential part.” – Matt Johnson, Successful Wedding Filmmaker
To stay organized, create a spreadsheet that outlines each segment of your wedding. Include:
- Locations and settings
- Key activities or moments
- The mood or tempo you’re aiming for
- Specific song choices or genres you love
Set Your Video Schedule
A clear timeline helps your videographer capture every important moment while keeping vendor schedules in sync.
Work With Other Vendors
Collaborating with other vendors, especially photographers, is key to ensuring smooth coverage. Here’s a quick breakdown to help with scheduling:
| Time Block | Key Coordination Points | Buffer Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Getting Ready | Photo and video coverage across rooms | 30 minutes |
| First Look | Coordinating camera angles and placement | 15 minutes |
| Ceremony | Equipment setup and positioning | 20 minutes |
| Reception | Shared schedule for major events | 15–30 minutes |
“It is so essential for photographers and videographers to work together and play nicely in order for the couple to receive a beautiful end result on both ends.” – Abigail Coale, Abidoodle Productions
Make sure to confirm camera positions, sync up photo and video sessions, and share finalized timelines with all vendors at least two weeks in advance. Adding extra time for unexpected delays can make a big difference.
Add Extra Time
Including buffer time keeps the day running smoothly and ensures there’s room for unexpected changes.
“Adding in buffer time is the ONLY way we can guarantee that even if something unexpected disrupts the timeline, we can still get back on track!” – Tori Kelner, Photographer, Tori Kelner Photography
Here are some key areas where buffer time can help:
- Morning Preparation: Add 30 minutes
- Travel Between Venues: Add 15 minutes
- Family Portraits: Add 20 minutes
- Ceremony Setup: Add 20 minutes
- Reception Transitions: Add 15 minutes
“When it comes to the getting-ready portion of your day, avoid sticking too rigidly to a morning schedule… We prefer a flexible approach to keep things calm and relaxed.” – Abby Johnson, Jennifer Janssen Bridal Artistry
As the details of your day come together, adjust your timeline to reflect any changes.
Complete Final Steps
Check Final Details
Work with your videographer to confirm all technical and logistical details. Use this checklist to stay organized:
| Element | Details to Confirm | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment Setup | Camera positions, audio gear, lighting | 2 weeks before |
| Backup Systems | Secondary cameras, memory cards, batteries | 1 week before |
| Weather Plan | Indoor options for outdoor shots | 1 week before |
| Key Moments | Must-have shots, special requests | 3 days before |
Double-check these points to make sure nothing is overlooked. Once technical details are set, move on to finalizing financial arrangements.
Handle Payment
Review and confirm payment terms outlined in your contract:
- Final Balance: Usually due 1–2 weeks before the wedding.
“Include a deposit to protect the videographer against possible financial losses if the client cancels. Changes to the event schedule or location after the contract is signed may incur additional costs.”
Make sure all financial obligations are clear and settled ahead of time to avoid last-minute stress.
Name a Coordinator
Assign someone to act as your go-to person on the big day. This coordinator should:
- Know your vision and top priorities for the video
- Have the timeline and shot list readily available
- Be prepared to make quick decisions as needed
- Communicate with vendors and handle any last-minute adjustments
Choose someone who isn’t directly involved in the wedding – like a professional coordinator or a trusted family member – so they can fully focus on managing the day’s instructions.
Conclusion: 6-Month Video Planning Checklist
A well-structured timeline ensures smooth videography. Use this six-month checklist to cover all the important details:
| Timeline | Key Tasks | Action Steps |
|---|---|---|
| 6 Months Out | Sign Contract | Detail services, deliverables, and payment terms |
| 4–5 Months Out | Style Planning | Review sample videos and discuss your vision |
| 3 Months Out | Timeline Draft | Plan key moments for the ceremony and reception |
| 1–2 Months Out | Venue Walkthrough | Check filming spots and evaluate lighting |
| 2 Weeks Out | Final Review | Confirm timeline and shot list with your videographer |
| 1 Week Out | Final Payment | Settle the remaining balance as outlined in your contract |
This checklist ensures all essential steps are handled – from signing contracts to final reviews – so nothing slips through the cracks.
Contracts are especially important. Attorney Caroline Fox emphasizes:
“Contracts make sure everyone knows exactly what they are getting, how much of it, when, and how much it’s going to cost. No surprises. That’s the key thing I really try to drive home: make that scope of work as specific as possible.”
Keep copies of all critical documents and have your coordinator work closely with the videographer throughout the event. If possible, do one last venue walkthrough to finalize camera angles and address any unexpected challenges. This step ensures that the final video matches your original vision and the agreed schedule.
