Video or Photos? Why You Should Consider Both for Your Wedding Day
Planning your wedding day can be a whirlwind of decisions, from choosing the perfect venue to picking out the flowers. But one of the most significant choices you’ll make is how to capture the memories of your big day. Should you hire a photographer, a videographer, or both? If you’re on the fence, let me share why combining both photography and videography can be the ultimate game-changer for preserving your wedding day.
Why Photos Are Non-Negotiable
Let’s be honest—wedding photos are timeless. They’re the go-to way to freeze those special moments in time. From the first kiss to the sparkler exit, these images are the ones you’ll frame, share on social media, and maybe even pass down to future generations.
Photographers have a knack for capturing the essence of a moment, whether it’s the look on your partner’s face as you walk down the aisle or the pure joy of your family during the speeches. These still images become tangible memories, ones you can hold in your hands and cherish forever.
But as magical as photos are, they have one limitation—they can’t fully capture the movement, sounds, and emotions that make a moment come alive. That’s where video steps in.
Why Wedding Videos Are Worth Every Penny
If photos are the snapshots, videos are the full story. Imagine hearing your vows again, listening to the speeches that made you laugh and cry, or watching your first dance unfold just as it happened. A well-made wedding video is like having a time machine—it allows you to relive your day in a way that photos simply can’t.
In New Zealand, we’re all about storytelling, and videography is the perfect way to capture the raw, unfiltered emotions of your wedding. It’s not just about the big moments either. Videographers can film those in-between moments: the nervous adjustments to your dress, the giggles with your bridal party, or the way the wind played with your veil during the outdoor ceremony. These tiny, fleeting details may not always make it into a photo album, but they add so much richness to your wedding story.
The Magic of Combining Both
You might be asking, “Can’t I just pick one?” Sure, but here’s the thing: combining photography and videography gives you the best of both worlds. While photos provide the timeless, shareable images, videos bring your memories to life in motion and sound. Together, they form a complete package that captures every angle of your day.
Think about it like this: photos are the highlights, while videos are the full feature film. Your photographer will catch the details—the lace on your dress, the tears in your dad’s eyes—but your videographer will capture the moments as they unfold in real-time. Together, they create a richer, more dynamic memory of your day.
Addressing Common Concerns
Some couples worry about having too many cameras around or think hiring both a photographer and a videographer will break the budget. But here’s the reality: professionals in this field are experts at blending into the background. They’ll work together seamlessly to ensure they’re not stepping on each other’s toes—or yours.
As for the cost, think of it as an investment. Your wedding day is one of the most emotional, love-filled days of your life, and you only get one shot to capture it. Years from now, you’ll thank yourself for prioritising these keepsakes. Many photography and videography teams in New Zealand even offer combined packages, which can be more affordable than hiring two separate vendors.
What to Look For in a Photographer and Videographer
When hiring professionals, look for teams that have experience working together. This ensures they’ll have a good rhythm and won’t accidentally block each other’s shots. Review their portfolios, and make sure their style aligns with your vision—whether you’re into candid moments, cinematic storytelling, or a mix of both.
Also, don’t be afraid to ask questions. How do they handle lighting in outdoor ceremonies? Do they offer drone footage for those epic New Zealand landscapes? The more comfortable you are with your team, the more at ease you’ll feel on your big day.
When it comes to your wedding day, you shouldn’t have to choose between timeless and cinematic memories. Photos and videos work hand-in-hand to preserve all the love, laughter, and beauty of your celebration. By combining the two, you’ll have a treasure trove of moments to relive for years to come.
