Questions to Ask When Searching for a Wedding Videographer
Most newly engaged couples don’t have much experience shopping for a wedding videographer. And why should they? Its not like they’ve had to hire a wedding videographer before. Below are 10 questions you should ask before deciding on any particular wedding videographer. (Here are our answers to these questions)
10. How long have you been a wedding videographer and what is your training?
This may seem like a basic question, but I am rarely asked it. This is a two part question because not only do you want someone who has experience shooting weddings, but also someone who has been taught the fundamentals of video production.
9. What video formats will my wedding video be delivered on?
The first place to start is to make sure they are shooting in high definition. Even if you don’t have a blu-ray player, you still want your video to be shot in the best possible quality. Make sure that your videographer can at least deliver your video on DVD. They should also have the ability to deliver your wedding video on Blu-ray and on the internet (to make it easy to show friends and family). Is having all the un-edited video important to you? Some companies only give you the finished product.
8. Can I sign a contract?
Signing contracts might seem like it is something that only protects your wedding vendors. This should not be the case. A well written contract is designed to protect both parties. In fact, if a contract outrageously favors one party, it may not hold up in the court of law.
7. How long will it take to deliver my final wedding video?
This should be discussed in the contract you sign with your wedding videographer (hint, hint!). Realistically, anywhere from 3-5 months is an acceptable turnaround time for a wedding video, depending on how busy they are. Anymore than 6 months and well, you should start sending out the bounty hunters to find your videographer.
6. Who will be my wedding videographer?
This may seem like a basic question, but I hardly ever get it. Maybe they just assume that the person they are meeting with will be their videographer. Don’t assume anything. Always ask to meet with the lead videographer that will be at your wedding.
5. How many weddings do you do a week?
How many other weddings is the videographer shooting on your wedding day or weekend? Make sure that there are no time constraints.
4. How do you record audio?
This is very important! A visually pleasing video can be ruined by poor audio. A good videographer will pull a feed from the audio board whenever possible to capture the best possible sound (both during the ceremony and reception). The videographer should also provide a wireless microphone for the groom or priest to wear during the ceremony. Ask the videographer what approach they take to capture clean audio.
3. What kind of cameras do you use?
Ok, so if they tell you that they are using a Panasonic AG-196, that sounds good right? Well it was good in 1986… but we have moved pasted VHS tapes. If you ask this question make sure to note the model and look it up when you get home. If nothing else, make sure they are using a 3CCD (or 3 chip) camera. The benefit of cameras with 3 CCD’s (opposed to one CCD) is that they can provide superior image quality and resolution.
2. Why are you a wedding videographer?
You want to find someone that is passionate about what they do and just cares about your wedding specifically. They should be fun and someone that you get along with well; you’ll be spending 8 or more hours in a day with them, after all.
1. Can I see recent samples videos of your work.
Let me repeat that, it is so important: Can I see recent sample videos of your work. Is the footage shaky? Can you hear the dialogue? Is the picture sharp? Are the colors bright? Are there candid moments that would have otherwise been lost?
(Here are our answers to these questions)
Don’t risk hiring an inexperienced videographer that misses important parts of your day, after all, is there really a price that you can put on those memories?
After your wedding you will only have 4 things that you will keep for the rest of your life; your spouse, wedding ring, photos and your wedding video. Don’t settle for anything but the best when it comes to all of these.
4 things that you will keep for the rest of your life
