The Difference Between Wedding Photography and Videography

Understand the unique roles of photography and videography in preserving your wedding day memories.

When you’re planning a wedding here in New Zealand, there’s a good chance you’ll come across two big decisions when it comes to capturing your big day — do you book a wedding photographer, a videographer, or both? While they may seem similar on the surface, photography and videography offer very different ways of preserving your memories. As someone who’s been part of countless weddings, I’ve seen firsthand how both play unique roles in telling your love story.

Photography: Freezing Time in a Frame

Wedding photography is all about capturing still moments that tell a story. From the nervous excitement before the ceremony to the tear-filled speeches and the wild dance floor moments — photography gives you snapshots of emotion and detail that you can frame, print, and treasure forever.

A good photographer will anticipate moments as they unfold, using light, composition, and timing to create images that evoke emotion. Whether it’s the groom’s face as the bride walks down the aisle, or the quiet moment between the couple just after the ceremony, these stills become timeless.

Why Couples Love Photography:

• Instant nostalgia – You can look back at a photo and be transported right back to that moment.
• Perfect for albums and wall art – Tangible memories you can hold, gift, or display.
• Details matter – From the lace on the dress to the rings on the pillow, photography captures the little things.

Videography: Telling the Full Story

Where photography captures a single second, videography captures movement, sound, and emotion in real-time. A wedding video can bring back the way your partner’s voice cracked during vows, or the roar of laughter during the best man’s speech.

Modern wedding videographers in New Zealand are creating cinematic films that feel more like mini-movies than home videos. There’s storytelling, music, drone footage, and editing techniques that add a whole new layer of emotion.

Why Couples Choose Videography:

• Relive the day – Hear the vows, see the first dance, and watch your day unfold again and again.
• Share with loved ones – Perfect for family or friends who couldn’t make it.
• Emotionally rich – Captures the vibe, the energy, and all the in-between moments.

Key Differences at a Glance

Do You Need Both?

This is a question I get asked a lot. The answer really depends on your priorities. If you want timeless keepsakes to hang on your wall or flip through with family, photography is non-negotiable. If you want to remember how the speeches sounded, how the dance floor moved, and feel the energy of the day — videography delivers that in spades.

Many couples here in NZ are choosing both because they complement each other beautifully. Photography gives you the stills to frame and share, while videography tells the full story in motion.

What to Look for When Choosing a Photographer or Videographer

When you’re hunting down the perfect team to capture your wedding, chemistry is key. You’ll be spending a good chunk of your day with these people, so make sure they get your vibe. Here’s what I recommend looking for:

• Style – Every creative has a unique style. Some are light and airy, others dark and moody. Find one that matches your vision.
• Experience – Weddings are unpredictable. A seasoned pro can handle rain, delays, or that uncle who won’t stop stepping into the aisle.
• Portfolio – Don’t just look at one highlight reel or a few top shots. Ask to see full galleries or full-length films.
• Packages – Find out what’s included. Some offer half-day coverage, drone footage, albums, or second shooters.

Whether you opt for wedding photography, videography, or both, these visual storytellers play an essential role in preserving your memories. Each offers something different, and together, they create a rich, multi-layered record of your day that you’ll treasure for years to come.