Wedding Videographer Guide

June 8, 2021 (0) Comments

Digital technology sure has come a long way. Back in the day, wedding videography wasn’t as popular because of the bright lights, loud camera sounds, etc. Today, it’s a very different story. Cinematographers and filmmakers are able to use their artistic abilities to create a wonderful memory for you and your partner. 

With the amazing editing software we have, digital technology now allows for couples to capture their entire story – turning it into something that makes you laugh and cry at the right moments. 

And while wedding photos are still worthwhile, videography might be something you want to consider. Not to make you sad here but 20 years down the road, you’ll be able to see your grandma or dog in the video and be thankful you have those memories. 

Videography Choices 

Although it can be expensive, wedding videography is 10000% worth it. If you decide to go with it, there are many choices you’ll have to make. 

Cameras

First, how many cameras? Having two cameras will allow different moments to be captured from different angles. If the bride and groom are getting ready in separate places (most of them do), then the two cameras can get footage of both. Or right before the ceremony starts, one camera could be filming the groom and your guests, while the other camera captures you and your father as the doors open up for you to walk down the aisle.Ugh, can you imagine what that video would look like? What a fairytale. 

Footages

Another thing you’ll want to consider is if you want your videographer to have footage interviewing your guests. Typically speaking, the interviews are hilarious and sweet. But if the majority of your guests aren’t comfortable in front of cameras, you might want to avoid this. But if you have some crazy friends and family, go for it. Otherwise, determine what aspects of your weddings you want to be included in the footage. 

Drones

Should you have drones? Do you want drones at your wedding? Drones are great especially, if you have an outdoor wedding. They can capture absolutely everything from a couple hundred feet in the air. 

Once known as a luxury item, drones are actually affordable and quiet. If this is something you’re looking for, talk to your videographer. Sometimes they’re priced as add-ons, by the hour, or require extra staffing. 

Finding a Videographer 

It is extremely important to find a videographer that you and your partner like. Personality is key because you’ll be working with them on your wedding day! If there is a mutual dislike for each other, you might not be as pleased at the outcome of your video. Remember, having great relationships with your vendors is a must! 

Finding a great videographer may be difficult, so ask your photographer. Photographers are an excellent resource since they coordinate with videographers at weddings. 

Warning: be careful how you word things because many photographers aren’t fond of videographers. Your list from your photographer may be small so make sure to do your own research. 

Otherwise, try the Professional Videographers Association or the Wedding and Event Videographers Association International. You could also try wedding websites such as The Knot to find local videographers. 

Hiring a videographer isn’t as urgent as some other things. At the latest, you can book a videographer 6 months out from your wedding. However, I’d strongly recommend hiring a videographer about 8-10 months out. You just never know… better to be safe than sorry. 

Interview Questions For Videographer 

Once you find a videographer, make sure you, your partner, and the videographer sit down for an interview. You’ll want to see their work and talk about their past experiences. 

Demo: 

During the demo, your videographer will show you one of the final videos for a wedding.

When you’re watching this, there are a few things you want to keep in mind. 

1. Are the videos, images, and colors sharp? Do they appear crisp and clear? How’s the lighting?
2. How are the transitions? Are they smooth or abrupt? 
3. Can you hear the “I Dos” and the vows clearly? Sound clarity is extremely important.
4. What is included in the video? Guests? Decoration? The entire venue? Food? 

The Meeting: 

If you are interviewing multiple videographers, make sure someone is jotting notes down!

This is the time to get a little personal with your videographer – don’t overshare in case you don’t sign the contract with this person. Get to know the videographer and make sure your personalities align well. 

During your meeting, you want to make sure you ask the right questions. Sit down with your partner and list what is important for you. What do you want your final product to look like? 

Below are a list of questions you could ask your videographer: 

1. How do you handle lighting and sound? What if the weather is gloomy or there’s an airplane that suddenly goes by? 
2. Have you used drones before? If so, can I see footage where you used a drone for a wedding? 
3. What format will my final video be in? And is there a way I can share it online? 
4. How long have you been doing weddings and how many have you done? 
5. Who is responsible for getting the videography guidelines from the church or synagogue? 
6. How long will it take for you to edit and finish the video? 
7. Are references available? 
8. Do you need time to set up? If so, how much time? And will you be doing a practice run at the rehearsal or day of? 
9. How much is the deposit? What is your cancellation policy? When is the balance due? 
10. What if there is a natural disaster? What is your policy on that? 

There are so many other questions you can ask but these are a great start. This is also a good time to see if you can get involved with the editing process. For example, ask your videographer if you can pick the music for the background. 

At the end of the day, you should go with someone you feel comfortable talking to. 

Wedding Videography Contract 

Once you and your partner finalize on a videographer, it’s time to sign the contract! Hip hip hooray!! During this time, there are some final details you should mention. 

For one, don’t forget your videographer’s attire! Make sure to tell him or her what you expect at your wedding. Although most people can guess, it’s much easier when it’s said clearly so there’s no confusion. 

Your videography contract should include the following: 

1. The date of the wedding, videographer’s arrival time, and address of the location 
2. What the videographer will bring or provide 
3. The attire of the videographer 
4. Backup plan in case the videographer is ill or can’t make it to the wedding 
5. The number of hours of videography included in the fee  
6. Number of hours of raw footage your videographer will shoot
7. Length of the edited or finalized video 
8. Cancellation policy (in case something doesn’t work out)

Also, this is the time to mention what you liked and didn’t like from the demo. Don’t be afraid of mentioning this kind of stuff! 

Another important thing to ask is who owns the copyright to the video. Typically, it’ll be the videographer so if that’s the case, ask what usage rights you have. Having an open and honest conversation about this is essential. 

If you’re having a photographer and videographer, make sure you have a meeting with all of them and figure out a schedule. This will help maximize your photographer and videographer’s time. You need to balance their time to ensure everything important is captured. 

Pro Tip: give them a finalized schedule of events of your wedding day a few days in advance! Also give them a list of important people you want to make sure are included in the video. 

Is a Videographer Worth It For a Wedding? 

Yes! A videographer is completely worth it! While pictures capture moments, you can have a short movie about your wedding. From watching yourself re-walk down the aisle to watching everyone break it down on the dance floor, a videographer is able to make all those special moments last forever. 

On average, a wedding video lasts about 10-15 minutes. But that is entirely up to you. The shortest video is about 3 minutes with the longest video being 30 minutes. Either way, having a videographer to capture all these precious moments is something you can watch forever. 

How Much Should I Pay for a Wedding Videographer? 

The cost of a wedding videographer will range depending on the location, date, hours, and the level of experience the videographer has. In the US, the average cost for a wedding videographer is about $1,800, with most couples spending anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000. 

If you want a wedding videographer but are on a budget, you can have your videographer come 30 minutes before the ceremony starts and then leave after the wedding cake has been cut. Most videographers get paid by the hour so this will help reduce cost. This way, your videographer will capture the most important parts of your wedding. Remember that adding drones or an extra videographer will increase the cost. 

And if you’re wondering, “why are wedding videographers so expensive?” It’s because of the equipment and software they have to use. On top of that, the more experience they have, the more couples want to hire them so prices increase based on demand. Who doesn’t want the best videographer for their wedding day? 

Having a photographer and videographer will take a huge chunk out of your wedding budget – there’s no doubt about that. But at the end of the day, it’ll all be worth it.