Wedding Videography Quick Tips

Videography Quick Tips

• It is very important that you hire a professional instead of just recruiting some relative to take the video. Think of it this way: many people know how to work 35 mm cameras, but you hire a professional to take the wedding photos because he or she is trained to account for such variables as lighting and weather, and knows how to get the best shots.
• Professionals offer the choice between one camera or two, to provide the coverage that you like best.
• Professional videographers offer other advantages, such as a smooth editing process, special effects, and spliced-in music and childhood photos. All of these perks combine to form a video that is of a very high quality.
• Pay attention to every detail in a videographer's demo tapes. Is the camera held steady? Is the edit smooth from one sequence to the next? How well does the emotion of the day come across? Do you feel like you were actually there? Is the sound quality good -- how clear can you hear the vows?
• Meet with the person who will be taking your video to discuss your ideas. You may want to include personal, private interviews from the bride and groom to each other, and this is an option you should discuss with your videographer. Also talk about exactly what you want taped, where, and when.
• Ask about the package deals that they offer. If one does not appeal to your needs, see if you can create your own. Check out the price you get for the type of coverage. Standard coverage includes the ceremony and reception, but be sure to ask questions anyway.
• Also be sure to ask about the availability of back-up equipment, including lighting, in case something should break.
• Try to arrange for the videographer to attend your rehearsal. This will give him or her a better chance to work with the layout of the church, and find out what restrictions are placed on where the cameras are allowed to be. If he can also film sections of the rehearsal, it will give you some "bloopers" to add to your finished product.
• When you choose your videographer, be sure to get every detail in writing. Specify how long he or she will work, what the prices are, if food should be provided at the reception for him or her, and what the hourly overtime charge is. This contract is for your protection as well as the videographer's, since there are so many details to finalize that it would be easy to forget one or two.
• You may want to ask about getting additional copies of the video for family and friends, since professional copies are of a much higher quality than their homemade counterparts. Find out if the video company keeps copies of each video on file in case yours gets ruined or you need another copy.
• To keep your video in working order, store it at regular room temperature. Every three to four months, play the video to keep all the movable parts working (if you don't have time to watch the video, just fast forward and rewind through the tape).