Do I Need an Event Sizzle Reel or an Event Recap Video? Here’s How to Choose.
You’re planning a big event, and you know you want it on video. But now you’re left wondering: what kind of video do I actually need — an event sizzle reel or a recap video?
Let’s dive in and breakdown the difference between the two main types of live event videography and exactly which one is best for you. Because whether you’re hosting a high-stakes corporate conference in New York City, or planning a fun, low-key launch party on the beach in the Hamptons, it all comes down to one thing: Understanding your goals.
What’s the Difference Between an Event Sizzle Reel and an Event Recap Video?
Let’s start with an event sizzle reel, often also called an event teaser video. This is a 15-30 second high-energy highlight video designed to grab attention instantly in a short amount of time. Sizzle reels and teaser videos focus on dynamic visuals quickly cut together. They’re usually set to upbeat or trending music, and are perfect for social media feeds where attention spans are short.
When to use them:
To promote an upcoming live event or showcase a recent one
As a “scroll stopper” on Instagram Reels, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts
For paid social ads aimed at clicks, sign-ups, or brand awareness
Key Characteristics:
Fast, punchy edits
Bold transitions
High-energy music
Visuals that hook viewers within the first 3 seconds
Then there’s the event recap video—a longer, more detailed piece that tells the full story of your event from start to finish. Usually running 45 seconds or more, it weaves together highlights, speeches, interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments to create a narrative your audience can truly relive.
While the sizzle reel is designed to grab attention and build excitement, the event recap video tells the whole story. It blends key highlights with context like speeches, interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments, allowing your audience to relive the experience from start to finish.
When to Use It:
For post-event engagement with attendees
In sales or sponsorship pitches to show the complete brand experience
As evergreen content on your website
For internal training or event documentation
Key Characteristics:
Narrative-driven storytelling
Can include speeches, interviews, and ambient audio
Context that showcases both the experience and the brand or business
Event Teaser Video (Sizzle) vs Event Recap Video: Choosing the Right One
First, let’s talk about your audience.
Do you have new or lightly engaged viewers on your social media, email or internal platforms? Or do you have a highly invested audience, made up of existing clients, stakeholders or strong potential leads? If it’s the former, an event sizzle video or an event teaser video may be the best choice for you. This type of video is designed to grab attention quickly, spark curiosity and tease upcoming or similar events that you have on the horizon.
Next, let’s think about where your video will live.
If you want something quick, shareable, and optimized for social platforms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts, or paid ads, a sizzle reel or event teaser is your best bet. But if your goal is to showcase the full story on your website, in email newsletters, or internally to your team, an event recap video is the way to go.
Now, consider the editing style you’d like.
Are you picturing quick cuts, bold visuals, and high-energy moments? Or do you want the full story, capturing all the highlights, creative shots of products and sponsors, and layered audio like welcome speeches and playful sound bites from the founders?
Take a moment to picture it. The clearer your vision, the easier it is for your video team to capture exactly what you’re looking for!
If you’d like a little inspiration or help picturing what’s possible for your event, check out some examples of our live event videography for NJ corporate events, NYC brand activations, and other special occasions on our work page.
Finally, the sound design.
Do you want upbeat, trending or hook-driven music to carry your video? Or do you prefer more of a mix — like music, ambient sounds, and dialogue?
If you want snappier music to carry your video then you’re likely in need of a social-first event teaser video. But if you’d like a more fleshed out, dynamic vibe with storytelling and strategic ambience then an event recap video is for you.
What if I Want Both Formats? How to Plan a Multi-Deliverable Live Event Video Shoot
Can’t choose? You don’t have to!
Work with a professional video production team like Nova House Productions. We know how to plan your live event filming to capture both a high-energy sizzle reel and a full recap — all without stretching your budget or adding stress on the big day.
Recently, our team of NYC event videographers filmed the Cutter Connections 10 Year Anniversary Event. It was an evening of networking for creatives in film and media and included speaker panels, mingling, and celebration.
Take a look below to see the event teaser reel we made to capture the evening.
Let’s break it down. Here’s what the client wanted:
An Event Teaser Reel (15–30 seconds) for social media
An Event Recap Video (45 seconds or longer) for their website and member outreach
We started by discussing the client’s goals for each deliverable.
The Teaser:
needed to be quick and eye-catching
needed to engage and attract new audiences on Instagram (their platform of choice)
The Recap:
needed to tell the full story
needed to highlight speeches, panel discussions, and behind-the-scenes moments
To make both possible in one shoot, we used a two-camera setup and planned our angles in advance. One camera followed high-energy interactions like handshakes, group laughter, and applause for the teaser. The other stayed focused on steady, framed shots of speakers and panelists for the recap. We also recorded ambient audio and live speeches so the recap could include moments of dialogue that added emotional depth and authenticity.
If you’re curious to learn more about the Nova House process and how to film a live event, check out our recent blog.
Tips for Filming Event Teasers and Recaps Together
While we always suggest hiring a professional event videography team to get the best possible footage, we understand that sometimes it’s just not in the budget. If you’re planning to DIY, here’s a step by step guide on how to film a live event.
And if you want to capture footage for both a sizzle reel and a full recap, here are our most essential tips:
Define the Goal First
Decide whether the priority is a teaser, recap, or both. This will guide everything from shot selection to editing style. For example, a teaser might require more dynamic crowd shots, while a recap will benefit from steady, well-framed footage of speakers and branded visuals.
Build a Flexible Shot List
Create two “must-have” shot lists, one for teaser content and one for recap content.
For teasers: fast-paced crowd reactions, quick pans, product close-ups, big smiles, and moments of movement.
For recaps: wide establishing shots, detailed venue coverage, branded materials, and longer clips of speeches or performances.
Film with Pacing in Mind
Think ahead to your edit. Capture quick bursts of movement for teasers to keep the energy high. Balance these with steady, lingering shots for the recap to give the viewer context and breathing room.
Anticipate Platform Needs
Vertical video is ideal for social teasers, while horizontal video works better for websites, presentations, and email campaigns. When possible, capture both formats in the same shoot by using multiple cameras or re-framing your shots during filming.
Be Ready to Adapt
Even with a solid plan, live events are unpredictable. Be prepared to follow the energy in the room. A spontaneous speaker interaction or an unplanned performance can become the highlight of both your teaser and recap.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Plan for Both
Both types of event highlight videos serve an important purpose in your overall brand marketing strategy: The sizzle or teaser can attract viewers, while the recap video is your opportunity to tell the full story and build lasting connections.
Whether you’re hosting a rooftop launch in New York City, planning a beachfront celebration in the Hamptons, or looking for simple live event videography in New Jersey — when used together, these formats act like a one-two marketing punch. Planning for both ensures you get the absolute most out of your event highlight video production.
Still have questions?
👉 Let’s talk about how we can bring your event to life on video
👀 Or check out our services page to see all the ways we can work together!
Frequently Asked Questions About Live Event Videography in New York City, NJ & beyond
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A sizzle reel (or teaser video) is a short, high-energy highlight video designed to excite and attract attention. A recap video is longer and provides a fuller overview of your event from start to finish.
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It depends on your goals. If you want to generate buzz on social media or for future marketing, a sizzle reel is ideal. If you want to document the entire event or share with attendees, a recap video is best.
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Yes! Many brands choose to do both. By capturing footage strategically, you can create a recap video for documentation and a sizzle reel for promotional use.
Let’s plan your event video together. Send us a message and we’ll map out the best way to showcase your brand or business!
