Why Wedding Videography Pricing Varies and Why Who You Hire Matters

One of the most common questions couples ask when they start comparing wedding videographers is: Why is there such a big price difference? It’s a fair question, and the answer has less to do with “better” or “worse,” and much more to do with how a videography business is run.

I want to pull back the curtain a little and explain how different videography models work, why pricing can vary so much, and why I’ve chosen to run my business the way I do.

The Two Common Videography Models

While there are many variations, most wedding videographers fall into one of two categories:

1. The Studio or Associate Model

These companies often advertise lower starting prices and take on a high volume of weddings. Typically, you’ll communicate with a studio owner or coordinator, but the person filming your wedding may not be the person you’ve spoken to.

In many cases, these companies:

  • Act as a liaison between couples and local videographers
  • Hire independent videographers who may also run their own businesses
  • Assign shooters based on availability, sometimes just weeks—or days—before the wedding

This model can work well for some couples, especially those who are flexible and primarily focused on budget. However, it often means you won’t truly know who you’re getting until much closer to your wedding day.

2. The Solo Videographer Model (That’s Me)

I run my business very intentionally as a solo wedding videographer. When you inquire, email, or hop on a call, you’re talking directly to me. When your wedding day arrives, I’m the one showing up, filming, and crafting your story.

That consistency is not accidental. It’s the foundation of how I work.

Why Consistency Matters on Your Wedding Day

Your videographer isn’t just someone holding a camera, they’re with you for most of the day. From quiet moments while getting ready to emotional exchanges during your ceremony and the energy of the dance floor, this person is deeply present.

That’s why I believe it’s incredibly important that:

  • You know exactly who you’re hiring
  • You feel comfortable with them before the wedding day
  • There’s trust built through conversation, not just contracts

I always encourage couples to get on a call with me prior to booking. Not just to talk logistics, but to make sure we’re a good fit. Comfort matters. Connection matters.

What About Second Shooters?

While I am your primary videographer, I do bring a second shooter, and when I do, it’s someone I know well.

My second shooter is typically the same person I work with consistently. If they aren’t available, I only work with one or two other trusted professionals, people I’ve collaborated with repeatedly and know will match my approach, professionalism, and awareness on a wedding day.

This isn’t about filling a spot. It’s about maintaining the same experience and level of care for every couple.

Collaboration Makes (or Breaks) the Day

Weddings work best when vendors work together.

I strongly believe in collaboration and cohesiveness between the entire creative team, especially with photographers and planners. When vendors respect each other’s roles, communicate clearly, and move intentionally, the day flows beautifully.

When someone is constantly stepping into shots or competing for space, it can create unnecessary chaos. And couples absolutely feel that energy.

My goal is always to:

  • Work seamlessly alongside your photographer
  • Be present without being intrusive
  • Capture what matters without disrupting the moment

Being Mindful of the People You Love

One of the things I pride myself, and my team, on most is intentionality.

Your wedding day isn’t a production set. It’s a deeply personal gathering of the people who love you most. Family and friends deserve to experience the day, not feel like they’re navigating around cameras.

While it’s not always possible to be completely invisible, we do our absolute best to:

  • Capture meaningful moments without interrupting them
  • Be mindful of guests’ experiences
  • Balance getting the shot with honoring the moment

The result? A film that lets you relive your day for years to come, without sacrificing how it felt to live it.

Why This Affects Pricing

Running a business this way means:

  • Fewer weddings per year
  • More time invested per couple
  • Direct communication from start to finish
  • Trusted, experienced collaborators

That level of care, consistency, and intention is reflected in pricing and for many couples, it’s worth it.

Final Thoughts

There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to wedding videography. But I always encourage couples to ask questions:

  • Who will actually be filming our wedding?
  • Will we meet them beforehand?
  • How do they work with photographers and planners?
  • What is their approach to being present but unobtrusive?

Who you hire matters, not just for the final film, but for how your wedding day feels.

If you’re looking for a videographer who values connection, consistency, collaboration, and intentional storytelling, I’d love to talk and see if we’re the right fit.