Content Creators and Your Wedding: Are They a Must-Have?
In today's world, nearly everyone is a content creator to some degree. Whether it's posting an Instagram photo or sharing a TikTok video, we’re all contributing to the endless stream of digital media. Adobe* describes a content creator as “someone who creates entertaining or educational material to be expressed through any medium or channel.” Based on that definition, even your cousin with the iPhone could call themselves a content creator! But does that mean they can meet your expectations for your wedding day?
Let’s narrow the scope of what a content creator (CC) does, particularly when it comes to weddings. For the sake of this discussion, I’ll assume you’ve already decided to invest in a professional photographer and videographer, wise choices, given their established roles in delivering high-quality, timeless memories. Now, should you add a content creator to your vendor list? The answer largely depends on your budget and your expectations.
Understanding What a Content Creator Actually Does
Content creators often focus on a behind-the-scenes (BTS) approach, capturing raw moments that wouldn’t necessarily make it into your polished photo album or wedding film. But what exactly is BTS, and is it something you truly want? This is a key question to ask, as the term can mean different things to different creators. Is "the scene" they’re capturing aligned with what matters to you, or will it feel like an overlap with the work your photographer and videographer are already doing?
Most CCs deliver raw footage or photos within 24 hours, which can be a fun post-wedding novelty. However, if you're expecting something more refined, perhaps edited videos tailored for Instagram or TikTok, you might be looking at premium pricing. This brings CC services closer to what your photographer or videographer might already offer. The added wrinkle? Many CCs incorporate live posting into their packages, which requires granting them access to your social media accounts, something not everyone is comfortable with.
Alternative Approaches to BTS Content
Before committing to a CC, consider leveraging your tech-savvy guests. Nearly everyone at your wedding will have a smartphone, and they’ll likely be snapping photos and shooting videos throughout the day. Why not provide a QR code at each table linking to a shared folder where guests can upload their footage? To encourage participation, offer small prizes—an Amazon gift card, a bottle of champagne, or even some fun wedding swag—for the best uploads. You may be surprised by the unique perspectives your friends and family capture.
Content Creators vs. Wedding Storytellers
Content creators continue to establish themselves as viable additions to capturing your memories and I have had the privilege to work with some great ones who are fully aware of the importance of working as a team. A concept that is critical for your entire media team to understand and execute.
Real talk here! Content creation is tailored for “the scroll” which is really great to have but it’s not tailored for the immersive experience that only a wedding film can provide.
Consider this. If you and your husband/wife decide some day to have children, and you had the foresight to have a full documentary film created of your ceremony with multiple camera angles, full audio support to capture every word that you two spoke, guest reactions, aerial coverage, etc, your children one day will have the privilege of actually being invited guests at your wedding. Think about that! What an amazing gift to give to yourselves and your children. That is what a wedding storyteller provides.
As a wedding professional, my passion lies in telling wedding day stories that transcend fleeting trends. A wedding film, in my view, is not just a compilation of highlights but a carefully curated keepsake, a narrative of your love, woven together with care and artistry. It’s timeless, enduring, and deeply personal.
Final Thoughts
I want to assure you I am not “hating” on content creators. As I mentioned, I have worked with some really great ones and enjoy the collaborative vibe they bring but the decision to hire a content creator is yours to make. I encourage you to approach the decision cleareyed as to what they bring and what it is they will provide you. What I do recommend is to consider adding CC to your photography and your videography team and caution you as considering CC as a replacement of those roles. I have spoken with couples that have done just that are disappointed they did not have a crafted wedding film created for them. They loved their content but it left them wanting.
Wedding trends come and go, but your memories deserve to stand the test of time. Choose the vendors who align with your vision, not just the latest buzzwords or trends.
As always, I’m here to help. Feel free to reach out with any questions!
Cheers!
*Adobe creates many of the tools used for editing photos, videos, animations, and audio.