What is “Raw Footage” (And Should I Purchase It?)
In the wedding photography/videography world, the terms “raw photos,” “raw footage,” or just simply “raws,” are commonly mentioned.
Every artist approaches this subject differently, so this blog post is just from my point-of-view!
I offer raw footage as an add-on to any highlight or film. I also offer an add-on called “The Documentary.” The documentary add-on is a fully-edited version of your ceremony, speeches, and first dances (three separate videos), and may be more appealing to those just wanting a complete overview of their day.
What is raw footage?
From a videographers perspective, raw footage is the video files recorded directly to my SD cards. This footage is entirely unedited. My raw footage has not been colour-corrected or changed in any way. You can usually play all the files back in a standard video viewing software. (This is different than photos where “raw” files may need a special software to view).
Is raw footage the right add-on for you?
The most common reasons you might want raw footage are:
You want ALL of the moments from your day. I choose to offer raw-footage as an add-on because it was something that was very important for me to have from my own wedding day - and I don’t want to withhold that from my own couples. In my opinion, the footage from a wedding day will never be as important to any photographer or videographer as it is to the couple who hired them. Not all videographers are comfortable selling raw footage though, so make sure to ask before you book if it’s important to you!
You are interested in video editing yourself, and want to play around with the footage from your day.
What to expect from your raw footage:
If you decide to purchase your raw footage, there are a couple things you should know:
Raw footage is “straight-out-of-camera” and unprocessed.
Expect to hear the videographers voice more than anyone else's (the audio is not synced to the professional mics you will wear).
Expect the colours to look a bit duller or different than what you receive in your highlight or film.
Expect a mix of really short and really long clips, some with seemingly no purpose.
Expect lots of random camera movements.
Among all the footage you may find hidden gems and memorable moments, but don't come in with the expectation that every clip will be just that. Be prepared to sit around a computer and watch file by file.
Alternative to raw footage, you can purchase the documentary add-on:
Like I mentioned at the beginning of this post, I also offer an add-on called “The Documentary.” This is a fully-edited version of your ceremony, speeches, and first dances (three separate videos), and may be more appealing to those just wanting a complete overview of their day.
My documentary add-on is:
Colour-corrected to match your highlight/film.
Synced with the professional audio from your day.
Cut between 2-3 camera angles.
A complete overview of your main events (nothing cut out except for blank noise/moments).
Usually between 30 minutes-2 hours, depending on the day and length of events!
I want each of my couples to be able to choose what the best fit is for them. Feel free to ask me any more questions you might have about my process or either of these add-ons!
