If you’re getting married, you know that the wedding video is one of the most important things to plan- make sure that your videographer fits with your goals and vision. Video is a powerful medium and can be used for more than just an accurate depiction of what happened on your big day.
1. What are your wedding goals and vision for the video
What are your wedding goals? Do you want a documentary-style video that captures all the little moments and tells the story of your marriage? Or do you want something more traditional, where you get to choose in the editing process which parts of the day are included? Are you looking for something modern with lots of effects or something more timeless?
2. What kind of videographer do you want – a documentary style or more cinematic
The choice between a documentary-style wedding video and a more cinematic one can be difficult. Make sure you choose the right videographer for your wedding. Do you want a modern style or something more timeless? Do you want something simple and traditional or very involved? Are you looking for a documentary-style video that tells the story of your day, or do you prefer something more cinematic? These are questions to ask yourself when deciding if a videographer is right for you.
Lastly, make sure that the company can answer these questions! You should be confident that the company is taking your wedding seriously.
3. How much editing should be done on the video before it is released to you (if any)
There is no perfect way to edit the wedding video; it’s all up to you. And although there are some general editing guidelines, the editing should be done so that it reflects your wedding day.
4. What should be included in the price of a wedding video
A good videographer will work within your schedule and give you the best deal that they can. Usually, there are packages to fit any budget- but it isn’t necessary to spend more than you want or need in order to get quality results.
Most wedding videos are between 2-5 hours long, but can be longer or shorter depending on what you’re looking for. Most videographers won’t include more than 5 hours in their packages unless it’s specifically requested.
5. Who will own the copyright to your footage, you or the videographer
Typically, a good videographer would not have an issue allowing you to share your video- but they specifically won’t give up their rights to it. If you want a written agreement ahead of time, you can get one. If you’re worried about what might happen if something goes wrong, feel free to get a signed contract before the wedding.
6. How many hours of coverage should they provide per day
Typically, most videographers provide up to 5 hours of coverage. You also have the option to purchase additional hours at a discounted rate if you need it.
Don’t go overboard when choosing videographers- the best way to find them is to ask for referrals from the people that you know and trust. You can also check online reviews or interview them personally before booking!
7. Do they have experience with weddings like yours in terms of religion, location, etc.?
A good wedding video is about documenting the day as it unfolds and making memories last forever- and it would be nearly impossible for a new videographer to know what you want when they haven’t done this before. Do they have experience with weddings like yours in terms of religion, location, etc.? A good wedding video is about documenting the day as it unfolds and making memories last forever- and it would be nearly impossible for a new videographer to know what you want when they haven’t done this before. Do they have experience with weddings like yours in terms of religion, location, etc.?
For example, you might want a Jewish videographer for your traditional wedding and an LDS videographer for your Mormon wedding. A good videographer will know what to look for and how to handle these situations based on their experience with past weddings.
8. Do they have references that you can check?
A good videographer will be able to give you references of people who they’ve worked with in the past. But don’t just stop there- ask the previous clients if they were happy with the process and if they got what they wanted out of it! You should feel confident about hiring any company after talking with its previous clients, so make sure to reach out!
9. What rights do you retain once the work is complete (i.e. can you display at your discretion, etc.)?
Typically, a good videographer will allow you to do anything that you want with the footage- including sharing it online or showing it during family gatherings. But ask specific questions about what they’ll let you do ahead of time so there are no issues down the line!
10. Can I see a video example of their work?
A good videographer should be able to give references and examples of their previous work that you can check out before making a decision! You might not be an expert on wedding videos, but a quick look will help calm any nerves- and make sure that they’re the perfect fit for your big day. There is perfect way to edit the wedding footage even with the best videographer. If you are worried about the wedding footage editing, ask for a reference of their previous work. Also, make sure to compare with other videographers’ videos before making your choice! A good photographer will be able to meet most of expectations on quality and price except perfect post-editing skills.
11. How do they edit? Do they have special techniques or programs that they use?
A good wedding video is typically edited in Adobe Premiere Pro, but sometimes it’s done by Final Cut instead depending on what type of equipment they’re using. Ask them if they’re experienced working with this kind of editing software so you can get an idea of what to expect after your final product.
Your wedding photography and videography should be a reflection of your day- so make sure that your photographer/videographer gets everything you want! Don’t settle or rush into a decision- take time to find the perfect fit for your big day!
When you finally have made your choice, make sure to go through their contract and pricing carefully! In the end, you should be happy with who you choose because this is the person that will capture every memory from your wedding day all the way until after the honeymoon has ended!
