Most couples opt to hire a photographer to capture their wedding. In fact, our data shows that 9 out of 10 couples hire a photographer for their big day. However, far fewer couples hire a videographer, with just a third choosing to immortalize their wedding on video.
But, documenting your wedding by using the skills of a videographer is a unique and highly personal way of capturing the magic. Video is different from photography because it can be a lot more natural and encapsulates those special moments as they happen. Your photographs are wonderful, but nothing can replicate the beaming smiles and happy tears that happen in the moment.
In this post, we’re going to have a look at the average cost of a wedding videographer, what can influence the cost and what level of skill and experience you might expect for your budget.
What’s the average cost of a wedding videographer?
The average amount couples spend on a wedding videographer in Canada is $1,500 to $2,500, which is very similar to the average cost of a photographer. These are average costs for hiring an experienced, professional videographer, rather than going for a more DIY approach.
In Canada, several factors can influence the cost of wedding videography, including the videographer’s experience, the technology they use, the venue, the location, the post-production work, and the specific videography package chosen. For most Canadian videographers, the average all-inclusive package tends to be between $2,200 and $5,000. A camera operator alone typically charges between $600 and $900 per day, and editing can cost an additional $500 per day. This is before factoring in the cost of equipment, as well as marketing, sales, preparation, and administrative time. That’s why wedding videography can seem expensive — a lot goes into creating those stunning wedding films!
What’s included in the cost?
Unlike a wedding photographer, a videographer is someone who won’t spend a portion of the day ‘directing’ you – instead, they’ll blend into the crowd and naturally capture your wedding. In some ways, you could compare it to a documentary as it tells the story of your wedding day, from the moment you start getting ready to the moment the two of you are whisked away together at the end of the night.
What’s included in the cost depends entirely on the package you choose, but can include:
- You and your other half getting ready
- Your guests arriving
- Footage of the ceremony (some videographers may offer just this as a basic package)
- Footage of the wedding breakfast, if you have one (including speeches)
- Footage of the evening reception (including cutting the cake and the first dance)
- Video editing and post-production
- A USB or DVD of the finished film
If you’re on a budget should you hire a videographer instead of a photographer?
While videography is often more affordable than photography, it’s worth considering the value of both mediums before choosing one over the other. Videography beautifully complements traditional photographs, capturing movement, sound, and emotion in a way that photos alone cannot. Instead of letting cost be the deciding factor, think about how the two can work together to tell the full story of your wedding day. There are also plenty of package deals available from vendors that offer both photography and videography, which can help you get the best of both worlds without breaking the bank.
What can affect the cost of a wedding videographer?
While our ultimate wedding budget breakdown found that $1,500 is the average amount couples in Canada spend on a wedding videographer, there are plenty of factors that can affect the cost:
- The date: Expect to pay more than the average costs if your wedding is taking place during peak times, such as during the summer months or on a Saturday. Winter weddings tend to be very popular in destinations like Banff National Park, so consider this as peak season too.
- Venue: Where your venue is located – as well as how far your videographer has to travel (maybe even to another Province) – can impact the cost. For example, videographers in Vancouver will be more expensive than those outside big cities.
- The style: The price will vary depending on whether you want the videographer to cover the ceremony alone or the entire day.
- Experience: The more experience a videographer has, the higher their price will be. On the flip side, you’ll likely receive a far more professional and polished video.
- Time: How long do you need the videographer to be there? Is there footage needed before or after your wedding? How long will post-production take to get the final product you’re after?
- Additional crew: If you’re keen on the more dynamic style that multiple cameras allow, then a second camera person will bump up the cost.
- Additional equipment: Are lights, additional cameras, or even drones needed to get the look you want?
- Multiple copies: Your package may include a limited number of copies of your final film on USB or DVD.
There may also be optional extras that can bump up the cost, such as:
- Expedited post-production and delivery
- Video messages from friends and family
What should you be aware of before you book your wedding videographer?
Each videographer brings a unique style and approach to capturing weddings, so it’s important to ensure their vision aligns with yours. Before making your decision, review their portfolio carefully. If you’re seeking a cinematic look but their expertise or equipment doesn’t support it, you may end up disappointed. Just because they fit your budget doesn’t guarantee they’ll meet your specific needs.
If your package includes drone footage, ensure the videographer has the proper legal documentation, such as a valid flyer ID and operator ID, to operate drones legally. This will help avoid any disruptions or legal complications during your wedding shoot.
Additionally, check if the videographer carries insurance, as some venues may require proof of coverage before the event. Having this in place ensures smooth coordination with the venue and provides peace of mind that any potential issues are covered.
What experience level can you expect for your budget?
Your budget will determine the level of experience, and therefore skill, your wedding videographer has. Check out the below table to get an idea of what your budget might get you.
Budget | $5,000+ | $2,500-$5,000 | $1,500-$2,500 | Under $1,500 |
Level of experience | You’ll get an industry-leading videographer who will produce a stunning wedding video. They may also have a second videographer working with them to ensure a variety of high-quality footage. | You’ll get an experienced videographer who has documented many weddings and will produce a fantastic video. | You’ll get a videographer who is finding their own unique style and has documented several dozen weddings. | You’ll get an up-and-coming videographer keen to grow their portfolio. |
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