Frequently Asked Questions & Wedding Resources
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about our wedding videography services, along with helpful tips and resources to make your wedding planning easier.
Looking for more info about your wedding videographers?
F.A.Q.
We know you may have a lot of questions. This is likely your first time doing anything like this. You may not even know what questions you should be asking. This FAQ section will help you feel informed and confident that you are getting exactly what you are looking for.
As award-winning documentary filmmakers, we bring that same style into our wedding films. We are interested in meaningful content, getting to the heart of someone's personality and beliefs. Then showcasing that emotional content in the most cinematic way possible, while staying true to you and your wedding.
We typically book weddings about 12 months in advance. The earlier you contact us, the more likely your date will be available on our busy calendar. Don't hesitate to reach out last-minute, though, you never know if we have an opening or a recent cancellation.
We are happy to bundle a photographer with your video package. This will save you both time and money compared to book a photographer from another company. View our add-ons for the photographer bundle.
We are happy to travel wherever you'd like us to. Our packages include up to 200 miles of round-trip travel. After that, we charge a travel fee to cover our expenses.
All packages include up to 200 miles of round-trip travel from Columbus, Montana. Billings, Bozeman, Livingston, and Paradise Valley are all within this included range. Travel beyond 200 miles is subject to additional mileage fees, and lodging may be required. Lodging may also be required for late-night coverage, even within the included 200-mile range.
Once you reach out to us, we'll ask some questions to get a sense of your wedding and what kind of video package you are looking for. If you don't know what kind of video you'd like, we're happy to help answer those questions for you. Then we like to set up a Zoom call to get to know each other better and learn more about your wedding and relationship. We'll send over a quote, so you know exactly what you are paying. We like to help with the scheduling of events on your wedding day so there is enough time to capture everything you'd like. Then we ask for a signed contract and a 50% non-refundable deposit. Once those things are in, your wedding date is officially booked!
We offer highlight films and a full-length videos, all original footage, live streaming, and social media videos.
The highlight film is our premium video with the highest production value. Depending on the package, it is up to 5 minutes or 10 minutes long. It summarizes your wedding day in a highly edited, cinematic experience. We can include everything from getting ready with hair and makeup in the morning, first look, interviews with the couple, ceremony, reception, speeches, dancing, and a send-off at the end of the night.
The full-length videos also have high production value, but they are not edited as much. They are simple and accurate representations of the event. Full-length ceremony videos are the most common. We'll film the entire ceremony from multiple camera angles and record professional audio from multiple sources. Then we combine all that into a single video that is exactly as long as the ceremony was. We cut between the best angles for each moment.
All original footage is everything that we film while we are at your wedding. There is no editing applied to the video clips. You get all the footage from every camera and audio clips from every microphone.
Live-streaming video. We can live-stream your ceremony or any other part of your wedding so that friends and family who couldn't make it there in person can still watch.
Social Media Videos are roughly 30 seconds long meant for sharing on various social media platforms. We create multiple versions of the same video in different formats, including horizontal, vertical and 4:5.
Yes! We love drone footage and will include drone shots every chance we get. There are a couple of restrictions that can prohibit drone use, rain or high winds, and proximity to an airport or no-fly zone.
Everything we film is in 4K ultra-high-definition. We use mirrorless cameras such as the Sony a7siii and Nikon Z8.
Yes! We love drone footage and will include drone shots every chance we get. There are a couple of restrictions that can prohibit drone use, rain or high winds, and proximity to an airport or no-fly zone.
Everything we film is in 4K ultra-high-definition. We use mirrorless cameras such as the Sony a7siii and Nikon Z8.
Yes! We can film your ceremony and simultaneously live-stream it online so that friends and family who couldn't make it to the wedding in person can still watch it. We can still use that footage for a full-length ceremony video or even incorporate it into your highlight video. Live-streaming requires reliable wifi or cell service.
Our standard delivery option is through Google Drive. We'll send you a link for you to download all of your content. Some of our packages include content delivered on a flash drive or hard drive or hosted on YouTube for easy sharing. Physical delivery on a flash drive is an option that you can add-on to any package. We can even create beautiful custom DVDs as well.
As documentary filmmakers, we know there is a fine balance between capturing things as they happen and "acting". We try to keep it as real as possible, but we also don't expect you to know what to do the whole time. Our direction starts with making sure there is enough time in the schedule to film everything you are looking for. From there, we film events as they happen, while always offering suggestions to make it look a little better on camera. We offer posing suggestions during couples and family portraits. You won't be on your own in this; we'll make sure you look as good as possible. At the same time, our direction is not heavy-handed; we like to let things happen as naturally as possible because that's where your unique personality will come out.
Teamwork makes the dream work! We're happy to consult with your wedding planner or photographer, in fact we prefer that so everyone is on the same page. Good scheduling is one of the best ways to reduce stress on your wedding day. When the wedding day comes, we want to make sure everyone is working together and knows what to expect.
Our contract states that you will have non-exclusive rights to the content you are paying for. It allows you to use it however you want, short of profiting from it. You can post it on social media and share it with whomever you'd like as long as you aren't being paid for it. On our end, we retain the rights to use anything that we shoot for our own portfolio, including the ability to profit from it.
We are happy to say that no one has ever expressed that they were unhappy with their wedding video/photos. Of course, that is a possibility in the future. If you are unhappy with the content we deliver for any reason, you may request revisions. We offer two rounds of revisions for free.
Wedding photos are great, and we would recommend starting there, but photos can only capture so much. Our wedding films capture so much more emotion, story, and memory from your wedding day. Imagine 30 years into the future, you're celebrating your 30th anniversary with your spouse and you dig up your old wedding photos and video. The photos will evoke memories of moments in time, but the video will take you back to your whole story as a couple at this time in your life. That's why we like to interview couples for their wedding films. It captures a lot more than pretty imagery; we capture your story, told in your own words. That will create a much stronger impact when you revisit your wedding film in the future. On top of that, it's more fun to share a cinematic short film with friends and family than a bunch of photos.
Have a question that wasn't answered in the F.A.Q. section?
Montana Wedding Video Resources
We know that planning a wedding can be overwhelming. We planned our own wedding in 2024. It was entirely DIY, so we know what it's like! Now that we've filmed dozens of weddings, we have seen all kinds of wedding styles and preferences. We know what helps things run smoothly and what adds stress. This resource section is here to help you create the stress-free and magical day you've been dreaming of!
We know how much work it is to plan everything, choose your decorations, and book all those vendors, from the DJ to the wedding planner, photographer, and videographer. It can feel like you are done once you finally get all that figured out.
Don't forget to put careful thought into your wedding day schedule! This can mean the difference between a stressful day and fitting everything in seamlessly. Wedding days are always busy but creating a window of time for each important event is key.
You are not alone. In fact, you should not create the schedule by yourself. Work with your vendors. If you don't have a wedding planner or day-of coordinator, then you should be creating your schedule with the photographer and/or videographer. They have the experience to know how long things actually take and they can help you fit everything in.
Don't save this for the last minute. It's best to aim for a complete schedule about a month before your wedding. Of course, things can change, and that's okay. If you have a good handle on how you want the day to go, a little change here and there is no big deal.
Having a good schedule that is approved by your photographer and/or videographer will ensure that nothing is missed and keep the chaos to a minimum. That means you'll spend less time worrying about fitting it all in and more time focusing on what really matters, marrying the love of your life!
Plan your wedding like a pro with this 16-page planner
Just like having a solid day-of schedule reduces stress on your wedding day. An organized wedding planning process will reduce stress in the months leading up to your wedding. We have created this comprehensive guidebook for you to fill out as you prepare for the big day. It will walk you through everything you should be thinking about, including scheduling, hiring vendors, venue planning, a budget tracker, and checklists to make sure nothing is forgotten. Fill out the form to get your free wedding planner!
Just a few wedding venues that show off scenic Montana beauty
Sage Lodge feels like the kind of place you dream about getting married—where the mountains wrap around you, the air feels impossibly crisp, and every moment feels curated just for you and your guests. From the moment you arrive, the staff makes you feel completely taken care of while still giving you the space to soak in the scenery and just be present with each other. The views of Paradise Valley become part of the celebration, whether you’re getting ready by a crackling fireplace, saying your vows beneath the Absaroka Range, or sharing cocktails on the lawn as the sun dips behind the peaks. It’s luxurious without ever feeling stuffy, warm without ever feeling rustic—and the whole experience leaves you thinking, this is exactly how our wedding day was meant to feel.
Yellowstone Valley Lodge offers the kind of wedding experience that feels intimate, effortless, and wrapped in the natural beauty of Montana. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by sweeping valley views, the calming rush of the Yellowstone River, and a sense that your day will unfold in a place that feels both relaxed and breathtaking. As a couple, you get the perfect balance of comfort and authenticity—cozy cabins for getting ready, wide-open spaces for portraits, and a ceremony spot that frames the mountains like they were designed just for your vows. The staff makes everything feel personal and stress-free, letting you focus on your people and the moments that matter. By the end of the night, with the river flowing beside you and the stars stretching across the sky, it feels less like a venue and more like your own little corner of Montana magic.
The Billings Depot gives your wedding day a sense of story and significance, thanks to its roots as a historic train station that once welcomed travelers from all over the country. As a couple, you feel that history the moment you walk in—the soaring ceilings, original brickwork, and grand architectural details that make the venue feel both iconic and intimate. Getting ready on-site sets a relaxed, purposeful tone, and when your guests arrive, the space transforms into a warm, elegant setting that carries the charm of a bygone era. The staff keeps everything running smoothly so you can simply enjoy each moment as it unfolds. By the end of the evening, with the hall lit softly and your celebration filling this beautifully preserved piece of Montana history, it feels like you’ve added your own chapter to a place that’s seen countless journeys begin.
Swift River Ranch offers a wedding experience that feels effortlessly Montana—spacious, scenic, and full of natural beauty. From the moment you arrive, the wide-open skies, rolling riverbanks, and rustic elegance of the ranch set the tone for a day that’s intimate yet grand. As a couple, you can take in the peaceful surroundings while preparing for your ceremony, then celebrate with your guests against a backdrop of a shaded lawn and the gentle rush of the river. The team at Swift River Ranch makes every detail seamless, allowing you to focus on each other and your loved ones. By sunset, with the landscape glowing around you and the sounds of the river in the distance, it feels like you’ve stepped into your own private Montana escape—a day that’s personal, memorable, and entirely yours.
Montana Wildflower offers a wedding experience that feels intimate, vibrant, and deeply connected to the surrounding landscape. Nestled near Red Lodge, the venue combines rustic charm with natural beauty, letting you celebrate your day among the foothills of the Beartooth Mountains and colorful wildflowers that change with the seasons. As a couple, you feel a sense of ease from the moment you arrive—the cozy spaces for getting ready, the scenic outdoor spots perfect for your ceremony, and the flexibility to create a celebration that truly reflects you. The staff is attentive and welcoming, helping every detail feel effortless so you can focus on your guests and the magic of the day. By sunset, with the wildflowers glowing and the lawn set with its charming seating, it feels as though your wedding has become part of the landscape itself—personal, relaxed, and unforgettable.
Rockin’ TJ Ranch in Bozeman is the kind of place where your wedding feels like a true Montana experience. Imagine exchanging vows with the Bridger Mountains as your backdrop, the prairie stretching wide around you, and rustic barns that add charm without feeling staged. You and your guests can wander the open grounds, find cozy corners for quiet moments, and take in views that change with the light of the day. The staff is friendly and unobtrusive, letting the celebration unfold naturally while handling the details behind the scenes. As evening settles in and the sky glows over the ranch, it’s easy to forget everything else—here, your wedding feels alive with the energy of the land itself, unforgettable, relaxed, and unmistakably yours.
Rock Creek Resort in Red Lodge is where comfort meets the wild beauty of Montana. From the moment you step onto the property, you notice the thoughtful balance of rustic charm and modern amenities—cabins and lodge spaces that feel cozy without feeling cramped, and sweeping outdoor areas perfect for your ceremony and photos. Couples love how easy it is to make the day their own: wandering along the creek, gathering with friends on the patios, or relaxing by the lodge as the sun sets behind the mountains. The staff is attentive and friendly, handling the behind-the-scenes details so your day flows naturally. By nightfall, with the creek sparkling in the fading light and the surrounding peaks silhouetted against the sky, your wedding at Rock Creek feels like a true Montana escape—memorable, warm, and unmistakably yours.
Red Lodge Golf Course offers a wedding experience that’s open, bright, and full of natural charm. With rolling fairways, mature trees, and the Beartooth Mountains framing the horizon, it’s the kind of place where every photo feels effortless. Couples love the flexibility of the space—whether exchanging vows on the manicured greens, celebrating under a tented reception, or taking a quiet stroll along the course between events. The team on-site is friendly and hands-on, keeping logistics seamless so you can focus on your guests and the energy of the day. As the sun sets over the peaks and the landscape glows in golden light, your wedding at Red Lodge Golf Course feels relaxed, expansive, and distinctly Montana—a day that’s as open and welcoming as the surroundings themselves.
Copper Rose Ranch in Livingston offers a wedding experience that’s both intimate and full of character, with rustic elegance woven into every detail. Nestled broadside to the stunning Absaroka Mountains, the ranch features charming barns, open fields, and tree-lined areas that feel perfect for a ceremony or portraits. Couples love the sense of privacy and freedom—celebrating with loved ones under wide skies, exploring scenic corners of the property, and capturing moments that feel spontaneous and authentic. The staff is warm and attentive, handling the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the day. As the sun dips behind the hills and the ranch glows in soft evening light, your celebration at Copper Rose feels uniquely personal, unforgettable, and deeply connected to the beauty of the land.
Yellowstone Film Ranch in Paradise Valley is a wedding venue like no other—an actual movie set surrounded by sweeping meadows and the dramatic peaks of the Absaroka Mountains. From the moment you arrive, it feels cinematic, as if your celebration is unfolding on screen. Couples love the versatility of the property—staging intimate outdoor ceremonies, hosting lively receptions across the open fields, and finding cozy corners for quiet moments with guests. The ranch’s team is attentive and experienced, making sure every detail runs smoothly while allowing your day to feel effortless. As the sun dips behind the mountains and the valley glows in golden light, your wedding at Yellowstone Film Ranch feels unforgettable, cinematic, and completely one-of-a-kind—a day framed by the beauty and magic of Montana’s landscape..
Camelot Ranch in Billings is a wedding venue that feels both charming and timeless, offering couples a peaceful retreat just outside the city. With rolling fields, classic ranch architecture, and plenty of open space, it’s easy to craft a day that feels entirely your own. Couples enjoy the mix of rustic elegance and natural beauty—exchanging vows beneath big skies, taking photos along tree-lined paths, and sharing relaxed moments with family and friends. The staff is friendly and attentive, quietly handling the details so your day flows seamlessly. As the evening light softens over the landscape and the ranch takes on a warm glow, your wedding at Camelot Ranch feels relaxed, intimate, and unmistakably Montana—a celebration shaped by the land and your own personal story.
Glacier National Park is one of the most breathtaking wedding venues in Montana, offering dramatic alpine peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and sweeping mountain vistas that feel straight out of a fairytale. Couples can exchange vows beside iconic locations like Lake McDonald, St. Mary Lake, or Logan Pass, surrounded by untouched wilderness and ever-changing light. Glacier is perfect for adventurous couples dreaming of an intimate elopement or a small scenic ceremony, with nature providing the ultimate backdrop. From golden summer sunsets to snow-dusted fall peaks, every season delivers jaw-dropping beauty and unforgettable wedding imagery.
Planning to travel to Montana for your wedding?
Bonus Tip
No, you (probably) won't get eaten by a grizzly bear. Even if you're wedding is in Yellowstone or Glacier National Park. You may see a bear, though!
1. Airport Travel
Part of what makes Montana so enticing is its remoteness. This can be both a blessing and a curse. Your venue might be far away from the nearest major airport.
2. Stock up on supplies while your in town
Your venue may be far away from the nearest city too, making it difficult to get supplies and find lodging for friends and family. Luckily, there is a thriving vacation rental market in these more remote areas. Which can offer a more unique experience than a hotel anyway.
3. Prepare for all kinds of weather
Be prepared for all kinds of weather, no matter what time of year it is. This means packing layers for warm, cold, and wet weather. If you are planning an outdoor ceremony, it also means having a backup plan in case it's raining (or snowing!)
4. Venues and vendors can book up fast
Contact your venue, lodging, and vendors early. Some areas have limited availability that they can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
5. Save time to see Montana
If you can, build in a little extra time before or after the wedding to explore Montana! There are plenty of fun things to see and do while you are here.
Of course you want to incorporate the scenic beauty of Montana into your wedding ceremony
Here are some things to think about to have a successful outdoor ceremony.
1. What to ask the venue
If you are getting married at an established wedding venue, they will likely have an outdoor ceremony location. Ask to see it and ask what the backup plan is if the weather is bad.
2. Think about the background
If you are creating your own outdoor ceremony location, think about the backgrounds of your photos and videos. Clear out anything distracting from the background that you can. Stand in the isle looking toward the altar and take note of what's behind it. Hopefully, some beautiful mountains!
3. Use a microphone
Even for small ceremonies, it's a good idea to have a microphone and speakers for friends and family to hear. That means you'll need electricity. Do you have access to an outlet or will you need a remote source of power? If you are hiring a DJ, ask what kind of equipment they have for outdoor ceremonies and if they can run without a power source. Some DJ's have big batteries or a generator that they can run things from.
Make sure there are wind covers on your microphones. If it's windy, these will make the audio much clearer.
4. Don't stand in the shade
4. It can be tempting to place your altar area in the shade under a tree. If you are not shooting photos or video, then this is just fine. If you are, be aware that it might make the photos and video look bad. People in the dark shade with a very bright background never look good on camera. It's usually best to have everything out in the sun. That means you'll want to think about where the sun is going to be in the sky so that people aren't looking directly into the sun.
5. Backup plan if it rains
Have a backup plan! You've probably thought of this already, but make sure you have a backup plan for an indoor ceremony in case the weather is bad.
Wedding Ceremony on the shores of Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park, Montana
Of course you want wedding photos, but why get a wedding video too?
1. A video will capture your story in a way that photos cannot.
Our wedding films often include interviews with the couple, so you can share your feelings, engagement story, things you admire about each other, etc. all in your own words.
2. Videos will capture every word that was said during those important moments, like the ceremony.
Photos will evoke the feeling you were having during those moments, but a video will allow you to relive those moments exactly as they happened.
3. No matter how present you are on your wedding day, it will go by fast.
A professional wedding videographer will capture the emotions, sounds, movement, and little in-between moments that photos can't. From the tremble in your voice during vows to the laughter during toasts.
4. You'll see moments that you didn't even know happened.
While you’re busy getting ready, greeting guests, or dancing the night away, so many special moments happen behind the scenes. With multiple cameras and a filmmaker’s eye, we capture reactions, interactions, and details you might otherwise miss.
5. Share it with loved ones who couldn't make it.
Whether you’re planning a Montana destination wedding or have family spread across the country, a wedding film makes it easy to share your ceremony and highlights with everyone. Full-length videos and highlight films allow people to feel like they were truly part of the celebration. You can even allow them to watch the ceremony as it's happening from anywhere in the world with our live-streaming add-on.
