Wedding Videography FAQ - Black Sheep Films

Everything you need to know about booking a wedding videographer

Is it worth hiring a wedding videographer?

I may be biased(!) but honestly, yes! Many couples who didn't book one will tell you it's their biggest wedding regret. Photos capture moments beautifully, but a wedding film captures the feeling of the day - your vows, the laughter during the speeches, the atmosphere of the room. It's the closest thing to actually reliving it.

What makes a good wedding videographer?

Style and approach are everything. The best wedding videographers work unobtrusively, capturing genuine moments as they happen rather than directing and posing couples throughout the day. Watch their films - do they feel authentic and emotional, or staged? A good wedding film should make you feel like you're back in the room.

What should I look for when choosing a wedding videographer?

Watch their work first as style is personal and you'll know when something resonates. Beyond that, look for someone whose approach suits you: if you're a relaxed couple who doesn't want to spend your wedding day posing, a documentary-style videographer is probably the right fit. Also consider: What's their turnaround time? What's actually included in the package?

What's the difference between a highlight film and a full wedding film?

A highlight film is a cinematic, polished film, typically 6 minutes in length. It captures the best moments of your day, is set to music and uses narrative audio from the speeches and ceremony to tell the story of your wedding. A full wedding film (or feature film) is the same, but includes even more footage and audio: longer snippets from the ceremonies and speeches and more of the day's detail. Both have their place, and I offer both.

Do we need to be good at posing in front of the camera?

Absolutely not! I aim to shoot in the most unobtrusive way possible - for most of the day I stay behind the scenes and only get involved when I feel I can genuinely be of help. When you have a portrait session with your photographer I'll tag along and may give you some simple direction at that point, just to get the best shots. I'm much more comfortable behind the lens myself, so I like to think I'm good at making you feel at ease on the day.

Can we choose the music?

As much as I'd love to accommodate music requests, due to licensing laws I'm unable to use famous artists as licensing a well known song costs thousands of pounds, which isn't feasible for a wedding film. The music I use is fully licensed and professionally produced, and I do pay a premium for it. This has two advantages; it supports talented independent musicians, and it ensures your wedding film is as unique as your wedding day itself.

How long do you shoot for?

I typically film for around 10 hours on the wedding day. I arrive during morning preparations and shoot throughout the day until after the first dance, allowing me to collect all the footage I need and getting some great party shots too.

How long do we wait to receive the film?

The normal turnaround time for a highlight film is around 4 weeks, depending on the time of year and my schedule. I spend a lot of time crafting something I'm proud of and I don't believe in rushing things. You’ll receive your social media teaser even quicker.

Can we have the raw footage?

I don't supply raw footage, simply because it isn't a finished or usable product. The raw files need to be graded and edited to be watchable. If you'd like to see more of your day, I offer a Feature Film as an optional extra - an extended 20 minute+ film with more of the day's detail.

How do we receive the film?

Once your films are finished I upload them to a private presentation page on my website, where you can easily view, download and share them with friends and family.

Do we need to provide transport?

Travel within London and Sussex is included in the package price. For weddings further afield I charge extra for transport and/or accommodation. I find my own way to wherever morning preparations are happening, but depending on the logistics of the day it can sometimes be handy to hitch a lift to the ceremony or reception.

Do we need to feed you?

I always appreciate it if couples provide food, but I don't expect or require it. As someone who is plant-based I completely understand if this can't always be accommodated!

How do we book?

Drop me an email and I'll send over a booking form. A £200 booking fee secures your date, with the balance due three weeks before the wedding.

Everything sound good? Get in touch to see if I’m available for your date.