Best Time to Book a Videographer for your Wedding

Your wedding day happens once, but your wedding film lasts a lifetime. It’s what brings back the laughter, the happy tears, and those fleeting moments you never want to forget. But here’s the thing — finding the right videographer isn’t just about who you choose, it’s also about when you book them.

Many couples don’t realize how much timing can impact the kind of memories they walk away with. Wait too long, and your dream videographer could already be taken. 

So, when’s the perfect time to book one?

That’s exactly what you’ll find in this guide — from insider timelines and budget insights to expert advice on what really happens when you wait too long. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to secure the right videographer and keep your wedding memories safe forever.

How Far in Advance Should You Book?

Let’s start with the big question: When is the right time to book a wedding videographer?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer — it depends on your date, location, and dream team. But generally, most couples find their sweet spot between 9 and 12 months before the big day.

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you plan better:

If your venue and date are already locked in, don’t wait too long to reach out. The best videographers often get booked faster than most couples expect — sometimes even before the photographer.

Why Booking Early Is the Smartest Wedding Move

When you book early, you’re doing much more than securing a slot — you’re setting yourself up for a smoother, more creative experience. Here’s why:

1. Popular Videographers Book Out Fast

Top-tier professionals often cap how many weddings they take each year to maintain quality. Many fill up their calendars a year in advance, especially for popular summer and fall weekends.

2. It Reduces Stress

Knowing your videographer is sorted early means one less major decision weighing on you. You’ll have more time to plan your outfits, schedule your engagement shoot, or simply breathe.

3. You Get More Creative Freedom

When you book early, you have space to brainstorm ideas, mood boards, and themes — making your final wedding film more you.

4. It’s Kinder to Your Budget

Videographers often raise prices yearly. Booking early not only locks in current rates but also gives you payment flexibility — perfect for balancing wedding finances.

What Affects the Ideal Booking Time

Every couple’s situation is unique, and so is their timeline. These key factors can make you want to book even earlier:

1. Peak Season Weddings

If your wedding falls between May and October, consider booking 12–18 months in advance. Those are prime dates that vanish fast.

2. Popular Venues or Destinations

Dreamy venues and destination weddings need coordination among multiple vendors — videographers included. Once your date is confirmed, make them one of your first calls.

3. A Specific Videographer You Love

If you’ve already found a videographer whose style you adore, don’t risk waiting. Top artists often take only a limited number of weddings a year.

4. Unique Filming Needs

Special touches like drone footage, multi-day coverage, or cinematic storytelling require additional prep. Booking early gives your team time to plan every creative detail.

How Booking Time Affects Cost

Timing doesn’t just influence availability — it can impact your wallet too.

What are Videography Styles to Know Before Booking

Cinematic Style

This style feels like a movie — emotional, dramatic, and beautifully edited with music and slow-motion moments.

Documentary Style

This one captures your day just as it happens — real moments, laughter, and natural emotions without too much direction.

Storytelling Style

It combines your vows, speeches, and candid moments into one emotional story. Voiceovers often bring your love journey to life.

Traditional Style

A simple approach that records your wedding from start to finish with minimal editing or effects.

Choosing your style early helps your videographer align their creative vision with yours — ensuring your final film truly reflects your story.

What Professional Videographers Say About Booking Early

Experts agree — early planning leads to better films.

“Many couples contact us only 3–4 months before their date — and by then, we’re often fully booked. Booking early gives us time to know your story and plan every detail beautifully.”

— Lenny & Melissa

Common Mistakes Couples Make When Booking Late

Even with the best intentions, couples sometimes underestimate how early they need to book. Avoid these common pitfalls:

● Waiting until after the photographer is chosen

● Assuming off-season means unlimited availability

● Ignoring videography in the early budgeting phase

● Not reviewing styles before booking

● Forgetting to discuss logistics like travel and venue permissions

What Happens If You Book Late?

If you’re already close to your wedding date, don’t panic. You still have options — you just need to stay flexible.

● Look for weekday or morning availability.

● Consider associate videographers under top studios.

● Choose shorter highlight films if full-day coverage isn’t possible.

● Skip unnecessary add-ons to save time and cost.

The key is to act fast and focus on what truly matters — capturing the emotions and energy of your big day.

So, even if you’re booking later than planned, having professional wedding videographers who value connection over volume can make all the difference.

Final Thoughts

Your wedding film isn’t just another item on your checklist — it’s a time capsule of your love. Booking your videographer early means more options, better pricing, and a smoother, stress-free experience.

So, once your date and venue are set, make videography your next 'yes'. Because when the cake’s been eaten and the flowers fade, it’s your wedding film that will bring the magic back — frame by frame, forever.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How far in advance should you book a videographer?
 Ideally, book your wedding videographer 8–12 months in advance. For peak season or popular venues, aim for 12–18 months ahead.

2. What is the 30-5 minute rule for weddings?
 It means being ready 30 minutes before the ceremony and in position 5 minutes before walking down the aisle for smoother coordination and perfect shots.

3. How much should a videographer cost for a wedding?
 Most wedding videographers charge between $2,000 and $6,000, depending on their experience, package, and location.

4. Is $3,000 too much for a wedding photographer?
 No, $3,000 is a standard price for professional photography that includes quality coverage and detailed editing.