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In 1982, when I first entered the Video Wedding Business, we were using tube cameras that offered very little color. The editing and wireless microphones for weddings was virtually non-existent, not to mention graphics and animation. Nowadays, videographers have three-cup digital cameras, wireless microphones, computer animation and graphics. |
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Videographers are now better educated thanks to the Wedding Event International Association (WEVA). Two thousand videographers, from all over the world, meet each year in a different city where they have access to a wealth of video related information. This is a must for all serious videographers! Those who attend, learn about pre-ceremonial coverage, wedding coverage, reception coverage, etc. There are also seminars to discuss different techniques for shooting, lighting, and miking (audio). Learning your camera's capabilities is important in situations that could occur during the taping of a wedding, such as low light. Another phase is an exhibition hall where any wedding related paraphernalia is available to the videographer. |
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In selecting the right videographer for your wedding, you might want to consider these credentials: Are they a member of WEVA and how often do they attend the yearly meetings? This way, you know if they have knowledge of all the latest information and techniques for shooting your wedding video. |
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When meeting with your area videographers, you will be observing their wedding demonstration video tapes. Look for clarity and richness of color in their demo tapes. You might want to look for creativity, too. Keep in mind that the demonstration tape they are showing you is supposedly their best work, so if these items don't look good, it will probably be of the same quality on your wedding tape. |
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Personality and how well you relate to your videographer is an important factor to consider. On your wedding day, you don't want to be forced to deal with any problems. Make sure you ask the videographer if he/she is going to attend properly dressed. Some videographers have actually shown up at weddings dressed in jeans! This can be very embarrassing to you and your guests. |
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Another question you might want to ask a prospective videographer is how long they have been in the business? Then check with the Better Business Bureau and see if they have any complaints lodged against their video production company. You can also ask for a list of past clients. How well do they get along with the photographer you hired for your wedding day? On this important day of your life, you don't need problems with the photographer and the video professional not getting along! |
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Another consideration is cost. Keep in mind that not all videos are created equal. By checking out several of the area videographers, you will see different styles of shooting and editing. Color quality will be different for each videographer. Bad lighting can give you more of a black and white video. Look for framing and composition. You don't want your wedding tape to have people with their heads cut off. You also don't want to have a jittery picture because the videographer doesn't have a steady hand. Look to make sure the subjects are in focus! Another tip is to see if the videographer gets shots of detail. For example: close up shots of flower arrangements, wedding cake and of course your bridal gown. |
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Check with you prospective videographer to see whether they are using consumer cameras or industrial cameras. Consumer cameras cannot take the demand that the industrial or broadcast cameras can offer. The new digital cameras offer a higher and crisper color resolution than was previously available. In the near future most videographers will be going to digital. |
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Also ask if your videographer brings a back-up video camera to the wedding. If his camera breaks down and he doesn't have a back-up, then you will miss some great shots of your wedding day! |
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Prices can range from $200.00 to over $2,000.00 - so make sure you look at their videos and their professionalism. That will assure a beautiful wedding video that will last forever! |
