Did you know you can actually save money on your wedding? In this blog, I’ll share my experience with wedding timelines and how they can help reduce costs. I’ll wrap up with an example from Maarten and Anouk. Be sure to check out their film at the end of the blog!

Deciding when your wedding videographer should be present is a key part of the planning process. Your wedding day will be filled with unforgettable moments, and carefully timing their coverage ensures your wedding film captures a complete, heartfelt story. Let’s explore how to plan your videographer’s schedule effectively and make the most of their time.

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1. Start with the “Getting Ready” Moments

Many couples overlook the importance of capturing the preparation process, but the “getting ready” segment is an emotional and intimate part of the day. It’s not just about your fiancé buttoning a shirt or you stepping into your dress. This time is full of heartfelt interactions with your loved ones.

Think about the emotions on your parents’ faces as they see you in your wedding attire for the first time. Imagine your best friends’ laughter as they help you adjust your veil or tie your shoes. Or even a grandparents magical smile. These moments are full of joy, excitement, nostalgia, and sometimes even happy tears—all of which add richness to your wedding film.

Additionally, including details like your hair, dress, shoes, jewellery, and other personal items can make the video feel alive and full of character. Starting your videographer’s schedule with these moments will set the stage for a truly powerful story.

2. Plan for Overtime to Capture Every Key Moment

Weddings often take longer than expected. Whether it’s a delayed ceremony or a reception that runs late because everyone is having too much fun, building in overtime is a smart move. Many videographers offer additional hours at a cost, but if you plan for it in advance, you can avoid unexpected fees.

By scheduling a little extra time upfront, you can ensure every important moment is captured, without the added stress of unexpected costs. After your wedding, the last thing you’ll want is another deduction from your bank account.

3. Give the Party Plenty of Time

Many people believe that wedding party footage can be captured in just 30 minutes, but that’s a common misconception. Those incredible, spontaneous moments take time to unfold. Guests often need a little while – and perhaps a drink or two – to feel at ease, both with each other and in front of the camera.

I need time to capture the atmosphere as it naturally unfolds. The sweet, candid moments, the unexpected dance moves, the laughter shared by friends and family—will happen, but they rarely occur in the first hour. Key moments, like your dad showing off his dance moves or a sweet interaction between old friends, make the video feel uniquely yours. These highlights are worth capturing, even if they’re only a small part of the final product.

Give videography on your party plenty of time, and the results will be worth it.

4. Maarten & Anouk as example

First, let’s hear what they have to say: “We chose a more extensive package with both a long and a short film. We are so happy that we decided to include video (in addition to photos). Without even noticing he was there, he managed to capture all the beautiful moments. …You truly get to relive the day. … On top of that, Tom is very friendly. All our guests mentioned that as well. His pricing is very reasonable. So would we recommend him? Absolutely!“

When I arrive at the venue, I immediately spot Maarten with his brother and two sons. My camera is always ready—I’ve already set it up at home, so I can jump straight into action when needed. This turns out to be incredibly helpful! That moment marks the start of their wedding film.

Right after the getting ready, the children light up the scene, and we capture some beautiful moments with them. I can’t leave you without showing a shot of the youngest, feeling on top of the world.

No additional time after the scheduled wedding hours means no extra costs—costs that would have been lower if booked in advance.

With all the time covered, we can include the small, special moments that mean so much, ensuring they’re part of your final film.

Picture the moments we’ve mentioned above, like the funny moment when Maarten says ‘YES’ a little too early.. and many more!