Raw Footage vs. Edited Wedding Video: What’s the Difference?

Raw Footage vs. Edited Wedding Video: What’s the Difference?

When shopping for wedding videography in Virginia, you’ll likely hear terms like “raw footage” and “edited video.” But what do they really mean—and which one do you need?

This guide breaks down the key differences between raw and edited wedding videos, why couples often choose one over the other, and what Shoreline Weddings provides in our packages.

What Is Raw Wedding Footage?

Raw footage refers to the unedited, unprocessed video files captured directly from the videographer’s camera. It’s exactly what we shoot on the day—without trimming, polishing, or music.

Raw footage typically includes:

  • All clips in the order they were captured

  • Camera shake, audio issues, and lighting inconsistencies

  • Multiple angles or duplicate takes

  • Long periods of inactivity

💡 Think of it like a big box of puzzle pieces—you have all the parts, but it’s not assembled into a story yet.

What Is an Edited Wedding Video?

Edited wedding videos are polished, curated films created by your videographer using the raw footage. They are carefully trimmed, color-corrected, and synced with professional audio and music.

Shoreline Weddings offers:

  • Highlight Films (3–5 minutes)

  • Ceremony & Toast Videos (add-on)

  • Full-Day Recaps (available in larger packages)

Edited videos are easier to watch, emotionally powerful, and designed to share with family and friends.

Comparison Chart

 

Wedding Footage - RAW vs EDITED - Comparison Chart

 

Why Most Couples Prefer Edited Video

Most couples choose edited films for these reasons:

  • Emotionally impactful – set to music, well-paced, and heartfelt

  • Easier to rewatch – no sitting through hours of raw clips

  • Professionally styled – like a movie trailer of your day

You can always request raw footage as an add-on, but most couples find the edited version is more than enough to relive the memories.

📹 See highlight examples here:

What Shoreline Weddings Offers

Our Virginia videography packages include:

  • 3–5 minute cinematic highlight film (included)

  • Optional full ceremony video (add-on)

  • Optional full toasts/speeches video (add-on)

  • Raw footage available upon request

💰 Packages start at $1,350: Virginia Videography Pricing

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I get both raw footage and an edited video?
A: Yes. All Shoreline Weddings clients receive an edited highlight film, and raw footage is available upon request.

Q: Do I need raw footage?
A: Only if you want access to every moment, including parts that didn’t make it into the edited film. Most couples are happy with just the edited version.

Q: Is raw footage usable on its own?
A: Not really—it’s not color-corrected, may include audio overlap or silence, and needs editing software to view smoothly.

Q: How big are raw footage files?
A: Usually 50–150GB, depending on the wedding length and number of cameras. We typically deliver them via external drive or cloud download.

Q: Can I request edits later using raw footage?
A: Absolutely. We can use raw footage to create additional custom edits even months after your wedding.

Final Thoughts

Raw footage gives you everything. Edited films give you the story.

At Shoreline Weddings, we believe in delivering elegant, emotionally powerful videos that help you relive your wedding for years to come—without overwhelming you with terabytes of files.

Still not sure what’s best for your Virginia wedding?📩 Book a Call to learn more or view our packages.


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