How Do I Hire a Wedding Videographer?
As with all of your wedding professionals, you will want to begin your search for a wedding videographer as soon as possible after setting your wedding date. This helps to ensure your top choice will be available on the day you have chosen to wed. Remember that videographers from New York City and Philadelphia may be willing to travel to different parts of New Jersey, if you are unable to find a local video pro who fits with your romantic sensibilities and budget.Your wedding videographer choice may come down to a simple question: who do you expect to watch this video? If it will only be you and your soon-to-be spouse, this may influence the style of video you would like to see. On the other hand, a video that will be sent out as a post-wedding favor to all of your guests may have a very different look and feel. Consider who will be watching this video, and work to find someone who shares your vision for the presentation in this context.
Will My Videographer Get in the Way?
Be sure to communicate with your videographer about the size of your ceremony or reception space. Large microphones and bright lighting might crowd a smaller space, so consider their equipment and products before signing a contract.- Do they insist that a company watermark or logo throughout the wedding video?
- How involved can you be in the editing process, and do they desire your feedback?
- In what format or formats will you receive your video (DVD, CD, VHS).
- Is posting the wedding video online an option included for distant relatives and friends?
Music Sets the Mood of Future Viewings of Your Wedding Video.
When it comes to background music, does your videographer have a range of options available? Can you chosen wedding song be added to the video? If you would like to add your song and your videographer is able to do so, be sure to provide them with a high-quality copy of your tune. If you have specific placements in mind for the music, let them know.Hiring Family or Friends
It is generally not recommended to hire a family or friend to take care of your wedding video, or any other important aspect of your wedding day. What will you do if the results are not what you'd hoped for? Many a toast has been drowned out by an emotional camera operator. The person you choose to film your wedding should be neutral and professional. Straining a close relationship is no way to remember your wedding, even if the friend or family member has offered you a discount. Let your guests be cherished as guests, and let the professionals handle the rest.Recent References and Past Productions
Every good videographer in New Jersey has a portfolio designed to "dazzle" and impress clients. If they don't have a full-featured portfolio and recent references, don't hire them for your wedding. There are some exceptions, so trust your instincts and be specific with your requests.Word of mouth referrals are priceless, so also ask friends, family and other professionals such as your wedding planner for advice along the way. You can also search online or in the yellow pages for a NJ videographer. If you go with this search option, be sure to talk to at least three different companies or individuals before you decide.
What Will the Wedding Video Cost?
As you interview your videographers, keep cost in mind. Get a bid for your video, and have them explain the cost in terms of services rendered and hours to be worked. If it seems like a really good deal, find out why. It might mean they have a less-than-great camera or no experience. Finding out you have five minutes of "shoe footage" won't be pleasant, or funny, on your golden anniversary.Are there extra fees for editing, or is an edited wedding video "final product" included in the cost they have quoted you? Raw footage will not do you much good unless you are a home video enthusiast, so be sure to clarify this point with your videographer when discussing costs. Also ask about your role in the process -- will you be able to give feedback after seeing a "rough cut," or have a particular song added to your video?
How much will the final copies cost? Are there bulk pricing discounts or packages available? Some couples choose to give videos of the ceremony to their wedding party as a special keepsake, commemorating their part in your special day.
Do I Really Need a Wedding Video?
Some moments of a wedding are simply better captured via video rather than photos. Video also gives the option of slow motion, fast motion and still frame excerpts, all of which can add some of the excitement and romance inherent in your wedding day which might be lost through photos alone. Consult with your videographer to clearly define the moments that you think will matter most to you, but also take their years of experience and suggestions into account. Examples include:- Exchanging your vows: a video will help you capture the subtleties of your commitment to one another.
- Placing rings on each other's fingers -- think about a closeup of your hands, as well as the expressions on your faces and in your eyes.
- The toasts given by the best man, the father of the bride, and others. You will cherish these real-time speeches with full sound quality.
- Your first dance together as a married couple, zooming out to include the other couples who you may invite to join in as your song goes on.
Remember, photos alone cannot bring your wedding to life. It takes a great wedding video to capture the excitement and love of your wedding day. Plan ahead, budget your money and time, clarify your expectations, and have a wonderful wedding that you can cherish time and again!