Short answer: Raw footage isn't included by default because it's not a finished film — it's hours of unedited clips with no color correction, no synced audio, and lots of in-between moments. What you get instead is an edited highlight film and polished ceremony and reception edits that are actually easy to watch and share.
What is raw footage, exactly?
Raw footage is everything the camera recorded, straight off the cards:
- Dozens of separate clips: Every start and stop creates a new file
- No editing: No music, no color correction, no audio mixing
- Unsynced audio: Vows and toasts are recorded on separate mics and recorders that need to be lined up in editing
- Test and setup shots: Focus checks, shaky walk-ins, and moments between the real moments
- Huge files: A full day can be tens of gigabytes — not simple to store or share
Most couples who open raw files watch a few minutes and never open them again.
Why don't most packages include it?
It's about giving you something finished, not just files:
- The edit is the product: Picking the best angles, cleaning up audio, and building a story is where the value is
- It looks and sounds unfinished: Flat color and camera audio alone can make a beautiful day look dull
- Delivery is clunky: Raw files need a hard drive or large download and special software to play smoothly
- It can misrepresent the day: Out-of-context clips don't show how the day actually felt
You can see what the finished version looks like on my wedding videos page — that's the difference editing makes.
What do I get instead?
You get films that are made to be watched:
- Highlight film: A short, edited film of the best moments from your whole day — the one you'll share and rewatch most
- Ceremony edit: Your full ceremony with clear, synced vow audio so you can relive it start to finish
- Reception highlights: Toasts, first dances, and key moments edited cleanly, depending on your package
- Online delivery: Easy links to watch and share with family, no special software needed
My package comparison page breaks down exactly what's included in each option.
Can I still get raw footage if I want it?
Yes — in most cases it's available as an add-on:
- Best for: Archiving everything, or if a family member wants to make their own edit
- What to expect: Files delivered as-is, unedited and un-color-corrected
- What to ask: How it's delivered, how much storage you'll need, and the add-on cost before you book
If archiving matters to you, just ask early so we plan for it. General pricing guidance is on my pricing page, and couples mention the finished films most in their feedback on my reviews page.
The honest take: Skip raw footage unless you know you'll archive it. Almost every couple would rather have a great edited film they'll watch for years than a hard drive of clips they'll never open.
Want to see what you'll actually get?
Tell me your date and venue and I'll walk you through the films included for your day. Check pricing and availability for your date and compare packages to see your options.