Every wedding videographer delivers different videos and films for their couples, and it’s difficult to figure out what exactly you’re looking for, and what is the best value.
This article breaks down the differences between Highlights Films, Full-Length Recordings, and Raw Footage for wedding videographers, and what you can expect from Mid-July Media when booking a wedding videographer in Michigan.
Differences at a Glance:
- Highlight Films: Short, cinematic recaps (2–7 minutes) designed for storytelling and easy sharing
- Full-Length Recordings: Complete multi-camera edits of your ceremony and toasts, capturing them in real-time.
- Raw Footage: Unedited clips from all cameras and microphones — ideal for archiving or creating your own edits later.
Wedding Highlights Film
A wedding highlight film distills the essence of your day into a short, cinematic movie that tells a story. These films are typically only a few minutes long—around two to seven minutes—and focus on the most emotional and visually compelling moments.
Highlights films are what Mid-July Media is known for. All of our packages come with Highlights film as standard!
Key features of a highlight film:
- Short runtime (2‑7 minutes) that is perfect for sharing online and rewatching often.
- Focuses on memorable moments such as first looks, vows, first dances, speeches, and other highlights.
- Edited creatively with music and cinematic pacing to create an emotional journey.
👉 See examples of our Highlights films: See Our Films »
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Full Length Recordings
Full-length recordings are complete, real-time edits of your ceremony and toasts, delivered individually. Each is carefully synchronized using multiple cameras and audio sources, ensuring you can experience every word, just as it happened.
If you were to watch your ceremony live on TV, this recording is exactly how it would appear.
Full-length Recordings are available in our Gold Package and Documentary Package for wedding video.
What to expect in a full-length recording:
Multi-camera edits that seamlessly switch between angles for a dynamic, broadcast-like feel.
Professionally mixed audio from multiple microphones to clearly capture vows, music, and/or voices.
Real-time pacing — every moment from start to finish in real-time without the creative cuts used in highlight films.
Delivered as separate videos (typically one for the ceremony and one for each toast), perfect for rewatching or sharing with close family.
Full-length recordings offer a balanced blend between polished storytelling and full preservation — allowing you to relive the day’s most meaningful moments in their entirety while still enjoying the quality and flow of an edited film.
👉 See an example of our Full-Length Ceremony Recording: Watch a Ceremony »
👉 See an example of our Full-Length Toast Recording: Watch a Toast »
Raw Footage
Raw footage is the unedited collection of video clips straight from the cameras. It includes everything captured on the wedding day and is delivered as separate files. There are no edits, color grades, or synced audio. Because the files come from each individual camera and microphone, the audio may be unpolished and the colors will appear flat. This format shows why editing is so important for wedding video.
Raw footage is available as an add-on to Mid-July Media’s wedding film packages.
Considerations for raw footage:
- Contains all clips, including behind‑the‑scenes moments and out‑takes.
- Files are large and may require specific software to view or edit.
- Best for couples who may want to archive everything or create their own edits later.
👉 See an example of a Raw Footage Clip: See a Raw Footage Example »
Which Wedding Video Format Should You Choose?
Each film type offers a different way to relive your wedding memories.
- Highlight films are ideal if you want a succinct, emotionally driven recap you can easily share with friends and family.
- Full‑length films are perfect for couples who want a detailed record of their ceremony and reception with every speech and event preserved.
- Raw footage is useful if you want access to every clip for archival purposes or future projects.
Many couples choose a combination—for instance, ordering a highlight film for frequent viewing and sharing and a full‑length film or raw footage for posterity. Reflect on how you plan to watch your wedding video over the years to decide which option (or combination) fits your needs best.
Ready to Book? Check our Availability »
Who is Mid-July Media?
Mid-July Media is a Michigan-based wedding videographer specializing in heartfelt, cinematic films that capture real life. Founded and operated near Grand Rapids, Michigan, we’ve filmed weddings across the state — from the Lake Michigan shoreline to Metro Detroit — bringing a timeless approach to every wedding.
Our films are known for their warm, natural style and careful attention to storytelling.
Why couples across Michigan love working with Mid-July Media:
Professional storytelling that balances cinematic creativity with genuine emotion.
Multi-camera coverage capturing the full scope of your day.
Personalized communication and seamless collaboration from inquiry to delivery.
Experience filming at some of Michigan’s top wedding venues, including Grand Rapids, Holland, Lansing, and Traverse City.
Your wedding day deserves more than a recording — it deserves a film that feels like you.
Learn More About Our Wedding Films »
