Planning

Photography & Video

The Best Videographer for Your Wedding

10 tips to finding the perfect videographer to capture every special moment of your wedding-day celebration. By Andrea Reynolds

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There is no better way to capture all the funny and romantic moments of your wedding day than hiring a videographer. Since there's not way you can be everywhere at once. Hiring a professional to record events is a great way to re-experience the things you remember, and enjoy the things you never got a chance to see.

Finding the best videographer for your wedding requires some thought, so before you rush into hiring just anyone, here are 10 things you need to know before you commit and hand over a deposit.

• Check out Equipment: Philip Stavrou, of Any Special Event in Toronto, says, “A videographer that spends money on his camera…will generally be able to produce a high-quality video for you.” The most recent technology is a 3-chip digital camera. This technology allows for a vibrancy and depth of colour that older technology does not. Digital footage is also easier to edit and can be put onto VHS or DVD formats.

• Ask about Process: Editing technology is also important, so ask the videographer to briefly explain how the whole process works. There are many options available, such as special effects, video menus and dubbed-in music. Find out if any of these are standard in your wedding package or if they’re extra. These options take time, and often, more editing time means higher rates.

• Expect Commitment: When booking your videographer, make sure he will clear his schedule for you. Some try to double-book, for obvious reasons, but weddings can always run longer than planned. If the videographer checks out before he has gotten a chance to record your normally timid husband going down the Soul Train aisle, then you might be missing out on some of the most memorable moments!

• Double-Up: If it's in your budget consider having two videographers. Keep in mind the need for an extra person will increase your costs, so determine whether another body is absolutely necessary. Costs can jump for certain extras. Prices vary depending on the package you want, but industry standard for basic features and a fully edited video will be between $1,500 and $3,000.

• Request Samples: It is good to get an idea of your videographer’s range of styles. Whatever you desire, make sure your videographer is in step with your style and has the capabilities to deliver. Experience is always valuable. Ask if the videographer belongs to any videography associations, and if he has had any video editing education.

• Talk to Past Clients: This is a good way of getting an insight into what he or she is really like. Ask former clients situational questions about how he works. What was their final opinion of him? This sort of knowledge can be the deciding factor when hiring.

• Be Clear: Give the videographer a schedule of events for the wedding day, and a list of people you want to make sure he captures on film. You may think it is only natural he would record specific people, but he will have no clue of your expectations. He may be an accomplished professional, but no one can read minds!

• Ask Questions:. Don’t be shy. Most people are unfamiliar with video editing; so “stupid” questions do not apply! The more time you spend investigating what kind of person you are hiring, the better idea you get of how he or she works.

• Get it in Writing: Do not leave anything up in the air. It is important to know exactly what time he will be at your ceremony and what he will be doing. Knowing his agenda can give you peace of mind.

• Don't Ask Amateurs: Don't be fooled into thinking you can get professional quality footage from your friend who happens to be good with a camera. If capturing your wedding is important to you, work it into your budget to hire a pro. Many brides have missing footage of their vows, ceremonial traditions and even walking down the aisle courtesy of “helpful friends”!

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