How to choose the right Videographer!!
Welcome back!
My name is Robert and I have 7 years experience filming weddings. Picking the right wedding videographer is like choosing the perfect co-director for the movie of your special day. Even if you aren’t choosing our company, you should be informed on where to start! So, let's dive into some key factors to help you make the best choice.
Filming Style: Just like photographers, videographers have their unique filming styles. Some prefer a cinematic, movie-like style, while others opt for a more documentary or journalistic approach. Be sure to check their portfolio to see if their style is in tune with your vision.
Films Delivered: What's the final product you receive? Is it a short highlights reel, a longer cinematic film, or a full-length documentary-style film? Understanding what you'll receive can help you choose the right package for you. If you happen to find the right videographer but they only produce certain films, you may have to choose a different company.
Experience with Weddings: Filming a wedding requires a particular set of skills. An experienced wedding videographer will know the rhythm of the day, where to be at the right time, and how to capture those unforgettable moments. If you are seeking a polished look for your final product, then an experienced videographer is a must! If you are seeking to keep budget low, and not stressed about quaility. Hiring a student or someone building their portfolio is great too! Everyone starts somewhere.
Equipment Used: A professional videographer will use high-quality equipment to ensure the best video and sound quality. Ask about their gear - cameras, lenses, stabilizers, and especially how they capture audio. Do they use lighting at the reception? Do they have back-up equipment? I approach every wedding with the military mindset of “it’s better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it.”
How Many Angles: Capturing your big day from multiple angles can add depth and dimension to your wedding film. Does your videographer use multiple cameras or drones? This can take your wedding film from good to outstanding. Personally, I shoot all weddings solo, but I am using three camera angles during all major formalities.
Wireless Lav Audio: Great video is nothing without great audio. Many professional videographers use wireless lavalier microphones to capture clear, high-quality sound, especially during your vows. Now, durng speeches, I typically patch my recorder into the DJ’s system. Most reception speeches and toasts are done with the DJ’s microphone.
Time It Takes To Edit: Post-production is where the magic happens! Be sure to ask your videographer how long you'll need to wait to see your finished wedding film. This truly depends on the company, time of year, and what your contract states. Not all videographers work the same amount of events per year so it does vary.
Respect: In my opinion, this is the most important part of the list. Your videographer should respect your day, your space, your guests, and your vision. They should blend seamlessly into your day, capturing the magic without intruding on it. No drinkning, no drug-use and no disrespectful language. Your day is stressful enough, the members of your team should be nothing but supportive.
Choosing the right videographer is about finding someone who can tell your unique love story in a way that resonates with you. Here at our company, we pride ourselves on our experience, our respect for your special day, and our commitment to creating a film that you'll cherish forever.
So let's chat and see if we're the right fit to co-direct the film of your big day!