So, you've decided to hire a videographer. But what does that even mean?
Whenever I get an inquiry, I follow up with a zealous email bursting with excitement and ideas... and it's probably a little much for those of you that have ZERO idea what it is you're signing up for. More often than not, I hear something like, "I don't know how any of this works. I don't know any of the right questions to ask you." I know for me that would be a totally stressful situation!
I've heard from clients and vendors alike that videographers are a total mystery to them. Much like you, each videographer has a unique style, process, and vision. These traits will not only impact your wedding day experience, but will also determine what your wedding film will look like. So, it’s important to find the right fit!
1. The type of coverage will determine the type of video produced
In your search for a videographer, you will likely encounter packages with a set number of hours that you are "covered". Many couples feel that opting for less coverage for a cheaper price is a better deal. But, this is highly dependent on your end goal.
For a short, portrait style video (2 to 3 minutes), you probably won't need a ton of coverage. At a typical wedding, a videographer should be able to capture the ceremony, portraits with the couple, and some of the reception in six hours.
If you're planning some important moments before the ceremony, go with the package that gives you more coverage. Remember: the longer a videographer is there to film, the more he or she has to work with. Personally, we love to capture the anticipation before the ceremony. Shots of the bride getting her makeup done or the groom suiting up add an intimacy and coziness to any film. Arriving earlier in the day also gives us take in the location -- all the sounds and details of your venue that really set the scene.
2. Audio is just as important as video
This might not make sense at first, but good audio is a key ingredient to provoking emotion and fully transporting you back to the moment. Imagine watching a movie with the subtitles on and the sound muted. You would be able to follow along, but without hearing the emotion in a character's voice you might have trouble feeling what they're feeling. Having a professional looking film with beautiful music is of course a nice thing to have, but clear audio from your vows, speeches, etc. will allow you to relive your day in a much more intimate way. When looking for a videographer, look for one that gives the right attention to audio.
3. Not all videographers are the same, and that’s ok!
We're not all the same, and, like you, we each have different goals for capturing the wedding day. For this reason, it's important to hire a videographer with a shared vision. Our priority, for example, is to create a candid film that will match the couple in their truest and raw form. Ideal clients for us will be ones that want to get real and let loose. If you tend to gravitate toward a traditional light and airy style, then you might want to look for a videographer who prioritizes posing and uses a lot of slow motion footage.
Before signing a contract with a videographer, opt to meet them for a coffee or hop on a quick phone call. Consider if they really get you as a couple, if they ask you the right questions, or even if they share the same sense of humor as you. Working with someone you vibe with gives you the added benefit of a totally fun and relaxed experience. If you click—great! But don’t be afraid or embarrassed to go a different direction. Most videographers genuinely want every couple to have their dream wedding experience, even if that means they won’t be filming it.
4. Pay attention to how they tell stories
I once saw a wedding film where I didn’t even see the bride or groom until a FULL MINUTE IN. For that entire first minute, I was watching all kinds of cool camera tricks and pretty, cinematic shots. But it was like... ok is this film about you showing off or is this about the two people getting married? Sheesh!
When hiring someone to film your wedding, look for someone who moves you. Search for a videographer that understands how to craft a great narrative and command an audience’s attention from start to finish. These will be the people to create the unforgettable tear-jerker that you will actually want to watch over and over again.
5. You get what you pay for
You may not have several thousand to spend on a wedding videographer, and that's ok. But the highly skilled artists are in high demand and are likely charging a premium because of it. Consider what you're willing to compromise on, and who offers the most value for your budget.
You could also ask a videographer about payment plans and if they're willing to split payments up over time. This is something we automatically do with every couple, and most videographers are more than willing to work with you to make your dream a reality.
Be sure to read our article, "How Much Should You Invest on a Wedding Videographer" article to learn about how wedding videographers price their services!
