You’ve said “yes” to the dress, booked your venue—from The Addison in Hoboken to a beachfront spot in Cape May—and now you’re thinking about videography. But one question keeps coming up: How long should your New Jersey wedding video actually be?
The answer isn’t one-size-fits-all. Just like your wedding day is uniquely yours, your wedding film should match your vision, budget, and how you want to relive your memories. Let’s break down the most common NJ wedding videography packages and what each one offers—so you can choose with confidence.
The 3–5 Minute Highlight Reel: Emotional, Shareable, Timeless
Most couples start with the highlight film—a short, cinematic edit (typically 3–5 minutes) that captures the emotional arc of your day. Think of it as the “trailer” of your love story: getting ready, walking down the aisle, vows, first dance, toasts, and a few joyful reception moments—all set to music with smooth transitions and natural sound bites.
Why couples love it:
- Perfect for sharing on social media or with family who couldn’t attend
- Delivered faster (often within 6–8 weeks)
- More affordable, making videography accessible even on tighter budgets
- Focuses on feeling, not just footage
This is the most popular option across New Jersey—from intimate backyard weddings in Montclair to grand celebrations in Princeton—and it’s often included in every package.
The 10–20 Minute Documentary Edit: The Full Story, Thoughtfully Told
For couples who want more, the documentary-style edit (sometimes called a “feature film”) expands the story. It includes longer clips of vows, full toasts, ceremony rituals, and key reception moments, edited in near real-time but still curated for flow and emotion.
Ideal if you:
- Want to hear your partner’s full vows or your best man’s entire speech
- Had meaningful cultural or religious traditions you’d like preserved
- Plan to watch your film privately with close family
In regions like South Jersey or Central NJ, where multi-hour receptions are common, this format ensures nothing important gets cut for time.
The Full Raw Footage: Rarely Recommended (But Sometimes Requested)
Some vendors offer unedited, multi-hour raw footage. While it may seem like “more is better,” this option is rarely practical. Raw clips are often shaky, unbalanced in audio, and include long stretches of setup or downtime. Most professionals don’t include it unless specifically requested—and even then, it’s usually an add-on.
Instead, trust your videographer to curate the best moments. After all, storytelling is their craft.
What’s Realistic for New Jersey Weddings?
In NJ’s diverse wedding landscape, package structures vary by region and experience level—but here’s a general guide:
- Highlight-only packages ($1,200–$2,500): Common among newer professionals or for elopements/micro-weddings in places like Lambertville or Asbury Park.
- Highlight + Documentary ($2,500–$4,500): The sweet spot for most full-day weddings in Bergen County, Monmouth County, or Morris County.
- Premium packages ($4,500+): May include same-day edits, drone footage (great for estate venues like Hamilton Manor), or a second videographer for larger guest counts.
Pro tip: Always ask how many hours of coverage are included. A “full-day” package in NJ typically means 8–10 hours—enough to capture prep through cake cutting.
How to Choose What’s Right for You
Ask yourself:
- Who will watch this? If it’s for grandparents or future kids, a longer edit may be meaningful. If it’s for social sharing, a highlight suffices.
- What moments are non-negotiable? Vows? First look? Cultural dances? Make sure your package covers them.
- What’s your timeline? Need it fast for a post-wedding party? Highlight films are delivered sooner.
And remember: length ≠ quality. A well-edited 4-minute film that captures your joy, tears, and laughter will always be more powerful than a 30-minute clip with no narrative.
Final Thoughts
Your New Jersey wedding video isn’t about clocking hours—it’s about preserving the heartbeat of your day. Whether you choose a poetic 3-minute highlight or a 15-minute documentary, what matters most is that it feels like you.
So don’t get hung up on runtime. Focus on finding a videographer who listens, understands your vision, and knows how to turn fleeting moments into lasting memories—whether your wedding is on a Jersey Shore beach, a historic Newark ballroom, or a rustic farm in Hunterdon County.