Finding the Right Videographer
The best time to start looking for a videographer is about nine to twelve months in advance. Begin with recommendations from family and friends, looking through tapes for quality, style and formats that you like. As you view a tape with the videographer, look for pans and zooms. Are they smooth? Does the tape tell a story? Here are some questions to ask when interviewing videographers:
What does the video package include?
- Unedited tape
- Multi-camera
- Montage of stills
- Titles
- Narration
- Background music
- Close-up shots
- Interviews with family, wedding party, guests
- Will you have a choice of VHS or DVD?
- Can interviews be interspersed throughout the tape?
- Can your taping be serious or humorous? Are creative options available?
- Discuss costs. Work out a clear payment schedule.
- Obtain an itemized agreement that lists everything included in the package and the total cost.
- How many tapes come with the package? What is the cost for extra tapes?
- How is the tape packaged professionally? Does it have a case, album, printed labels?
- Is a deposit required? If so, how much?
- How many hours does the price include?
- Can they arrive early to capture last-minute preparations, moments with family members and unexpected situations?
- How is overtime handled?
- Does the videographer maintain the tape? If so, how long?
- How far in advance must reservations be made?
- What is the cancellation policy?
- Can you select the background music, and is there a large selection to choose from?
- Is broadcast-quality editing equipment used?
- What kind of camera equipment will be used? Is it consumer or commercial quality equipment?
- Will there be sufficient light available at the time and location of the ceremony?
- Sound: The best videographers are using a wireless microphone to get clean, clear audio.
- Is the person who is showing you the videos the same person who will be shooting your wedding?
- Make sure you know who is taping the wedding, and get it in writing.
- Is the videographer familiar with the site you have selected?
- What will the videographer's attire be?
One last note: both of you must feel confident that this videographer will perform professionally and inconspicuously, and deliver a great video. Good luck!
