Why I Work With Photographers, Not Against Them.
Over the years, I have heard a lot of photographers vent about videographers. Things like, "They took over the whole portrait session" or "They kept stepping into my shot" or "They slowed everything down." Honestly, I get it. A wedding day is a team sport, and when one person decides they are the star player, everyone else feels it.
The good news is that it does not have to be that way. A great photographer and a great videographer can create a really smooth rhythm together. The couple gets better photos. They get better video. The whole day feels calmer. So here are the top five ways I love working with photographers so we can both deliver our best work for the couple.
1. I respect the photographer as the primary director during portraits
This is the most common area where tension happens. Photographers are used to guiding poses, arranging groups, and setting the energy during portraits. Some videographers jump in and start repositioning everyone which throws off the photographer’s flow.
That is not how I operate. During portraits, I let the photographer lead. I add in small, natural movements or quick prompts only when needed and always after asking. I want the photographer to feel supported, not interrupted.
2. I stay aware of angles so we are not fighting each other for the same shot
Photographers have their frame and I have mine. I keep track of where they are standing and adjust so I am not blocking their shot or standing directly in front of them at key moments.
If a photographer needs a moment to get a specific angle, I step back. If I need a second to grab something subtle, I communicate it clearly and quickly. Talking to each other keeps the day moving and prevents frustration.
3. I prioritize natural, candid moments so nothing feels staged or dragged out
One of the biggest complaints I hear from photographers is that some videographers slow down the day by constantly restaging moments. My style is the opposite. I lean into movement and authenticity. The couple can relax, interact, laugh, breathe and be themselves.
This makes life easier for photographers because the couple feels comfortable. When couples feel comfortable, photos look better and video looks better.
4. I communicate early and often so we are on the same page
Before the ceremony, before portraits, before key transitions, I check in with the photographer. A quick, simple "You good if we start here" or "Want wide or tight first" keeps everyone synced.
I also share what is most important for the film so the photographer understands my priorities. I ask about their priority shots too. When both of us know what the other is trying to capture, the collaboration feels smooth rather than competitive.
5. I want the photographer to win because when they win the couple wins
Photographers deliver the images that couples print, frame, and share everywhere. I want those photos to be incredible. That means making space for the photographer to lead, supporting their vision, and helping the couple feel relaxed and confident in front of both of our cameras.
When the photographer is able to get their best shots, the video looks better too because everything feels cohesive. We are not competing. We are building the same story from two different perspectives.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the couple hired both of us to tell their story. They deserve a team that communicates well, respects each other, and keeps the day flowing naturally.
I never want photographers to feel like they have to fight for time or space when I am on the team. I want them to feel like working with me makes their job easier, not harder. And when the photographer and videographer work well together, the energy becomes contagious. The couple feels it. The wedding party feels it. And the final photos and film look and feel better because of it.
