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Finding the Right Videographer
Every videographer will have their own kind of style - documentary, fly on the wall or blockbuster with special effects and lots of editing.
The best way to find the perfect videographer is by looking at sample wedding videos to decide what kind of style you like. All wedding videographers either have online samples or sample DVDs for you to watch at home. Try to watch a range of films across different price ranges so you can compare the quality and decide how much you really want or need to spend.
If you prefer a natural looking wedding video, you'll want a videographer who blends in with the crowds so that you and your guests will act naturally. Look at sample videos - if guests seem natural then it indicates that the videographer is not intrusive, so you won't notice them too much on the day.
Everyone has different ideas about their perfect video, so when you watch the sample wedding films, ask yourself whether you like the:
- look & feel of the video
- editing
- DVD menu
- DVD case
- picture and sound quality
If you book a videographer based on the demo wedding film you watch - check that the person filming your wedding will be the same person who videoed the demo film - otherwise you could end up with a completely different style.
questions to ask
- How long have they been a wedding videographer?
- What is included in the price? Hours filmed, no. of DVDs, extra features etc.
- What will be the duration of the final edited film?
- What format will the DVD be -standard, high definition or Blu-ray?
- How many cameramen will there be? Will they be the main cameraman?
- Do they charge more for multiple locations?
- What is the cost of additional DVDs?
- Do they charge extra for travel? If so, how much?
- Are they covered by public liability and professional indemnity insurance?
- What would happen if they were not able to attend on the day?
- Can they supply you with references of recent clients?
- What are the payment terms? When would you need to pay a deposit?
- What are the terms of the contract?
- If they will be filming all day, should you provide them with food on top of the price you pay?
- Some of my guests are likely to be camera shy - how do they ensure that your filming is not intrusive?
- Do they have the appropriate copyright licence to allow you to use our own choice of music on the wedding film?
nofreetime tips
- Make sure you know exactly what the videographer plans on including in your wedding film. If there is anything specific you want to be included - let them know and agree in advance. Your contract should state the location and duration of filming together with details of the terms of engagement. If you have a clear contract - you're less likely to be disappointed with the final product.
- Unless you agree otherwise, the videographer will keep the copyright of your Wedding DVD. If you specifically don't want your film to be used online or as a demo, you should raise your concerns in advance.
- Good wedding videographers will be booked up well in advance so aim to book them at the same time as your photographer.
- Make sure you have some soft drinks available for the cameramen throughout the day.