If you haven?t given much thought to hiring a professional videographer for your wedding, you should. If you feel that a relative or friend can produce a video that will compare in quality to a professional, you are going to be very disappointed.
All the sights and sounds of your special day can be captured forever with the help of a skilled videographer. Because this area of service is still relatively new, it?s advisable that you take special care in selecting someone with both the experience and reputation you need. Wedding videography should be a profession, rather than just a hobby.
Make sure the videographer?s equipment is state-of-the-art, and ask to view a few samples of his or her previous work. Look for professional creativity, bright, clear, rich videography, and special effects that enhance the scene, not detract from it. The audio should also be crisp and clear.
A traditional wedding video includes a photo history (baby pictures of bride and groom, pictures taken while dating, etc.) The video is often set to music chosen by you and your fianc?, and special effects between pictures are generally included. This can be shown at the reception. You should decide how many locations you want the videographer to include (wedding ceremony; immediately after the ceremony; with family; at reception, etc.) A fun idea is to have your videographer interview some of your guests. You may also decide to bring back some of your favorite honeymoon pictures to add to the video.
Inform your officiant if you are planning to have a videographer. Some locations restrict the use of cameras and camcorders, so you should make arrangements accordingly.
Make arrangements for the videographer to visit the site before the ceremony unless he or she is already familiar with it. Ask about different packages, and coordinate the different needs of the photographer and videographer to avoid confusion on your special day.
Make sure the contract you sign includes all terms and conditions, including reserved dates and times, price, what is to be included in the video, and approximate delivery date. Ask how many copies of your video you will receive, and how long the videographer will keep your tape on file.
Sometimes not everybody will be able to attend your wedding due to budget, location, scheduling conflicts, etc. In this case, you might want to consider using a broadcasting video service which allows your friends and family to watch your wedding anytime, anyplace, anywhere over the internet.
