do i need wedding video?
The Immeasurable Value of Wedding Videography
The sun had set, casting the world into twilight. As I navigated the winding roads, a blur of tears made the journey feel endless. Every turn and curve felt like an hour. The weight of the message I carried made my heart heavy, unsure of how to break the news to my wife. Her mother, my beloved mother-in-law, had suddenly passed away. A call from her devastated father, imploring me to deliver this heart-wrenching message, left me speechless.
As we came together, enveloped in grief, a treasure trove of old photographs became our solace. We lost ourselves in the memories, smiling at the snapshots of family vacations, and pausing at her radiant wedding pictures. The youthful glow in those photos felt like it was taken just yesterday. But as we searched for recent memories, we were met with a void. The camera had grown shy of her in recent years, a consequence of the extra pounds and a touch of self-consciousness. The stark realization hit us: just four cherished photographs captured her bond with our 4-month-old son. But videos? Those were even rarer. Oh, how we longed to hear her soft coos and infectious laughter as she cradled our baby.
Amid this poignant reflection, a silver lining emerged. Our wedding video from four years ago featured some of the most intimate and authentic moments of her. Although they were priceless, the longing for more remained.
For those in Austin, Texas, the average professional wedding videographer costs around $3,000, while Chicago stands at about $4,000. While this might seem like a significant chunk of your wedding budget, consider this: so many couples later regret overlooking videography. Photos are beautiful, but videos? They have the power to unlock a floodgate of emotions, immersing you into moments you might have forgotten, making you feel as if you're reliving the day.
As a wedding videographer, let me whisk you through the magical world of capturing moments, and champion the cause of memories over dollars. Here's the truth:
"Cut the vague clutter to make room for the meaningful specifics."
You might grapple with the conundrum of desires vs. budget. But, allow me to be the voice of your "future self." Two decades from now, the amount spent today will pale in comparison to the richness of the memories you possess.
Your wedding video is more than just a fleeting Instagram sensation. It's a legacy. It's the warmth in your mother's voice, the tenderness of your great aunt's embrace, and the surprise slow dance with your partner. It's the timeless memory you'll share with your descendants.
Two years ago, when I bid farewell to my mother-in-law, the video clips from our wedding became our solace. They showcased her in her element, vibrant and joyous. Now, in hindsight, I would give anything, even forgo lavish decorations or a grand cake, for a few more of such moments.
Many weddings represent the last family reunion of sorts, the final dance with parents, or a parting glimpse of grandparents. Allocate your budget wisely to honor these irreplaceable memories. Hire a professional filmmaker who recognizes their worth.
Are you on the fence about wedding videography? Dive deeper into its value in my detailed blog: The price of wedding photography & videography.
Because videography shouldn't just be an afterthought. For many, including me and my couples, it stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the venue and photography. If you're about to embark on this beautiful journey, reach out. Let's treasure these moments forever, together.
