Lights, Camera, Action!: Choosing a Videographer
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It is one of the biggest days of your life and you want to remember it all: The faces, the funny moments, the way the two of you looked at each other during the first dance. All of which is the perfect reason for a videographer. Whether two weeks or twenty years later, you’ll have an indelible memory of who and what made your big day so special. If you are considering skipping this element all together, think again. As those who have chosen to omit this element, often regret their decision.
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So how do you choose the perfect videographer for your wedding day? These tips are the perfect place to start.
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How to Find a Videographer
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If you think all videographers are created equal, think again. Like the flowers, the food, and the music, it takes a person of real skill to create an inspiring record of your wedding. Rely on the following sources to start your search.
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Ask Friends.
Check out their videos and see how and what you like about them.
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Vendor Referrals.
Ask your photographer, caterer, florist or wedding consultant for recommendations.
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Local Advertising.
Check out local bridal magazines for videographers in your area.
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Get Ready for Their “Close-Up”
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Before you decide on the person for the job, conduct thorough interviews with each of your candidates to find the best match for the two of you.
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Review Their Reels.
After you find a few potential video pros, set up appointments to meet them and see their work. Make sure the reel that you see is by the videographer you’re considering hiring for your day vs. someone who might be working for them.
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Chemistry.
Ask yourself if you feel comfortable with the videographer and if they have an engaging personality. Remember, videographers have to work and mingle with you and your guests, so it’s important to like their interpersonal style.
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Experience.
Find out how long the videographer has been working. Ask if they’ve received any professional awards.
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Call References.
See if their past clients were happy with his/her work and if there was anything they weren’t happy with.
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Got Questions? Ask Away!
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If you’re not familiar with critiquing video work, don’t worry. Here are the basics of what you’ll need to look for:
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Style.
Understand the videographer’s style - is it artsy, documentary, or does he or she simply interview guests directly? Decide what kind of finished product you want.
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Check Clarity.
When you review their reels, make sure the picture and sound are clear and the lighting is natural, and not too harsh.
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Transitions.
Make sure you like the way each scene goes into the next. The transitions should be smooth and natural.
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Scheduling.
Ask how many other weddings the videographer is working the day of your wedding or during that weekend. Ask if there will be an assistant available to help make sure all of the special moments are captured.
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Technical Stuff.
Will there be lots of equipment to trip over? How does the editing process work? How long does it take?
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Lighting.
Inquire about the lighting needed and how the videographer handles illuminating subjects. You want to make sure the lighting he or she needs is the same type you envision for your event.
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Before You Say "I Do"
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Make sure you have a contract with the person you’re about to hire. The contract should include:
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An outline of the exact amount of time the videographer will work and at which locations (addresses and phone numbers should be included in the contract.)
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The name of the videographer who will be working at your event.
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The number of videos/dvds you’ll receive.
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Prices for reordering.
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The date your final video will be ready.
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Overtime fees, if applicable.
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Deposit amount and the date it’s due.
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Balance and the date it’s due.
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Cancellation and refund policy.
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Total costs.
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Signatures of both parties.
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Remember, a wedding video is an exciting and lasting memento of your wedding day. By choosing the right videographer, you can play the starring role in a special movie that can be shared with family and friends for many years to come.
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