Most couples opt to hire a photographer to capture their wedding. In fact, our data shows that 9 out of 10 couples hire a photographer for their big day. However, far fewer couples hire a videographer, with just a third choosing to immortalise their wedding on video.
But, documenting your wedding by using the skills of a videographer is a unique and highly personal way of capturing the magic. Video is different from photography because it can be a lot more natural and encapsulates those special moments as they happen. Your photographs are wonderful, but nothing can replicate the beaming smiles and happy tears that happen in the moment.
In this post, we’re going to have a look at the average cost of a wedding videographer, what can influence the cost and what level of skill and experience you might expect for your budget.
The average amount couples spend on a wedding videographer in Australia is $2,000 to $4,000, which is similar to the average cost of a photographer. These are average costs for hiring an experienced, professional videographer, rather than going for a more DIY approach.
Several factors can impact the cost of wedding videography, including the videographer’s experience, the technology and equipment used, the wedding location, and the extent of post-production work. On average, an all-inclusive videography package ranges between $2,500 and $5,000. Camera operators typically charge around $600 to $1,000 per day, with editing adding another $500 to $800 per day depending on the complexity and style of the final video
These costs also account for equipment usage, marketing, administrative work, and preparation time, which is why wedding videography may appear costly. The high quality and effort that goes into creating cinematic, lasting wedding films often justifies the price
Unlike a wedding photographer, a videographer is someone who won’t spend a portion of the day ‘directing’ you – instead, they’ll blend into the crowd and naturally capture your wedding. In some ways, you could compare it to a documentary as it tells the story of your wedding day, from the moment you start getting ready to the moment the two of you are whisked away together at the end of the night.
What’s included in the cost depends entirely on the package you choose, but can include:
While a videographer is generally more affordable than a photographer, you may want to think twice before choosing video in place of the more traditional photographs. Videography is a lovely way to complement your photographs rather than replace them, so don’t let the cost be the deciding factor. Remember, even though the average cost of a photographer is more than the average cost of a videographer, there are options available. There are even vendors who will be able to offer a package that includes both photography and videography.
While our ultimate wedding budget breakdown found that $3,000 is the average amount couples in Australia spend on a wedding videographer, there are plenty of factors that can affect the cost:
There may also be optional extras that can bump up the cost, such as:
Your budget will determine the level of experience, and therefore skill, your wedding videographer has. Check out the below table to get an idea of what your budget might get you.
Budget | $5,000+ | $2,500-$5,000 | $1,500-$2,500 | Under $1,500 |
Level of experience | You’ll get an industry-leading videographer who will produce a stunning wedding video. They may also have a second videographer working with them to ensure a variety of high-quality footage. | You’ll get an experienced videographer who has documented many weddings and will produce a fantastic video. | You’ll get a videographer who is finding their own unique style and has documented several dozen weddings. | You’ll get an up-and-coming videographer keen to grow their portfolio. |
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