Wedding videos typically fall into one of two categories. Both are recordings of the day’s (and evening’s) activities, but the approach is different.

Documentary Style (often referred to as the “Journalistic” Style)

As the name would suggest, this approach captures the events of the day in a fairly linear fashion: bride prep, groom prep, the ceremony itself, any “tween” activities and the reception. Guest interviews may be included. The shoot and the editing usually flow with the chronological order of the day. Because the intent of a documentary style is to present the wedding in its entirety (notwithstanding some editing to “tighten” the footage) the length of the video can often run up to two hours. This is also the less expensive of the two styles to produce. A shorter version can also be produced to represent the highlights of the day. A finished documentary style video should be delivered in 8—10 weeks.

Cinematic Style (sometimes called the “Love Story” Style)

As this name implies, this is more of a story telling approach. Run length is typically shorter than “docu” style and more attention is given to freedom of creativity. Sequence of events is often out-of-order, and more attention is given to visual impact. One such concept that seems to be popular over the last few years is “trash the dress,” where, after the wedding and reception is over, the bridal gown is—literally—destroyed.  In a way, a statement is being made that the wedding is over and the dress will not be used again; a far more declarative statement than merely putting the dress in a box for storage. To be certain, not everyone is comfortable with the idea of ruining such a beautiful garment, but creativity knows no bounds for brides wanting to take a risk! Because the cinematic style is far more elaborate in both shooting and editing (heck, a storyboard may even be in order), it can be expected to be more expensive, and will take longer to generate the finished product.

Regardless of the style you choose (and you can blend them!), a capable videographer can help make it a day to remember!  And as our name implies, you don’t get a “second take” at once-in-a-lifetime events, so be sure First Impressions is there to capture it!