Different Types of Wedding Videography Styles

Capturing the magic of a wedding day on video is more than just recording events. It’s about preserving emotions, moments, and stories that couples will cherish forever. With so many styles and formats available, choosing the right type of wedding video can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down popular types of wedding videos, helping couples find the perfect way to relive their special day.

Bride and groom exchanging vows in an outdoor setting

Traditional Wedding Video

The traditional wedding video focuses on documenting the entire day in a straightforward way. It usually includes the ceremony, speeches, first dance, and key moments without much editing or artistic flair. This style is ideal for couples who want a complete record of their wedding day, similar to a documentary.

• Covers the full event from start to finish

• Includes important rituals and speeches

• Minimal editing, mostly continuous footage

• Often shot with multiple cameras for different angles

  
  

This type of video is perfect for families who want to see the entire event as it happened. It’s also useful for those who want to share the full experience with guests who couldn’t attend.

Cinematic Wedding Video

Cinematic wedding videos take a more artistic approach. They use storytelling techniques, creative camera angles, and professional editing to create a short film that feels like a movie. These videos often focus on emotions, details, and atmosphere rather than covering every moment.

• Shorter length, usually 5 to 10 minutes

• Uses music, color grading, and smooth transitions

• Highlights emotional and meaningful moments

• Often includes interviews or voiceovers from the couple

  
  

Couples who want a visually stunning and emotional keepsake often choose this style. It’s ideal for sharing on social media or watching with friends and family.

Videographer capturing the couple’s first dance with professional camera

Documentary Style Wedding Video

Documentary style videos focus on telling the story of the day as it unfolds naturally. The videographer captures candid moments, conversations, and interactions without staging or scripting. This style is less formal and more about capturing genuine emotions and reactions.

• Emphasizes real moments and natural interactions

• Minimal interference from the videographer

• Includes behind-the-scenes footage and guest reactions

• Often longer than cinematic videos but shorter than traditional

  
  

This approach suits couples who want an authentic and heartfelt record of their wedding day. It’s like watching a story unfold, full of surprises and real emotions.

Highlight Reel

A highlight reel condenses the wedding day into a short, energetic video that captures the best moments. It’s usually 3 to 5 minutes long and set to music, making it perfect for sharing quickly with friends and family.

• Fast-paced editing with music

• Focus on key moments like the ceremony, first kiss, and dancing

• Designed for easy sharing online

• Often used alongside a longer traditional or cinematic video

  
  

Couples who want a quick, fun summary of their wedding day often choose a highlight reel. It’s a great way to relive the excitement without watching hours of footage.

Same-Day Edit

Same-day edit videos are created and shown during the wedding reception. The videographer films the ceremony and early parts of the day, then quickly edits a short video to play that evening. This adds a unique and emotional touch to the celebration.

• Edited and ready within hours of the ceremony

• Includes highlights from the ceremony and preparation

• Shown during the reception for guests to enjoy

• Requires a skilled and fast editing team

  
  

This option works well for couples who want to surprise their guests with a fresh look at the day’s events. It creates an emotional connection and keeps the energy high during the party.

Love Story Video

A love story video focuses on the couple’s relationship rather than the wedding day itself. It often includes interviews, footage of the couple in meaningful locations, and narration about their journey together.

• Personal and intimate storytelling

• Can be filmed before the wedding day

• Used as part of the ceremony or reception

• Adds depth and context to the wedding celebration

  
  

Couples who want to share their unique story with guests find this style very meaningful. It helps everyone understand the couple’s bond and the significance of the day.

Tips for Choosing the Right Wedding Video Style

• Consider how you want to remember your day: full coverage, emotional highlights, or personal stories

• Think about how you plan to share the video: online, at the reception, or with family

• Discuss your preferences with your videographer to see what fits your vision and budget

• Look at samples of different styles to find what resonates with you