Too many couples today choose not to have a video of their wedding because they have heard “that it will be obtrusive”. Often this is because they heard a story from a friend or relative who had a bad experience in the past. Most of this comes from the 1980s and 90s. At that time cameras were less sensitive, and larger. So it wasn’t uncommon for the videographer to use large lights for their big shoulder mount cameras.

Today it is much different. Our cameras are smaller and much more sensitive. Videographers are more sensitive too. We know that it is your day, not ours.

Every videographer is different, but here are a few things that we do to maintain a low profile.

• Minimal lighting. For wedding ceremonies we only use the light that is already there. This is true of most videographers today. While we usually have to use additional lighting at most reception locations (these are often very dark), this is usually a small (10 watt) light mounted on the camera.
• Respect. We often encounter reluctance from the clergy about video during the wedding ceremony. This as mentioned above, is sometimes the result of a bad experience in the past. While we want to place our cameras where we can get the best shots, we always work within the limitations placed on us by the venue. This may mean filming from the balcony, or off to the side. Even when we don’t have any limitations, we prefer to have two of our three cameras tripod mounted at all times during the ceremony. The tripod mounted cameras stay put. The only time they are moved is if our view is blocked. During the ceremony we always keep our distance. That is what zoom lenses are for.
• We wear dark clothing at a wedding. This doesn’t seem like it would do anything, but we have found that it really helps us to remain inconspicuous.
• As videographers we do not have to interact with the wedding party as much as the photographer. So we will not pose people, or ask them to look at the camera. We prefer to work with the photographer when shooting formals rather than duplicate their efforts.
• Speaking of photographers, it is important to know where they are and not get in their way. While I admit that I haven’t always been successful, I make sure that I maintain an awareness of the photographer’s location. I expect the same of them (only a few photographers have ever been a problem).
• At the reception we can be somewhat looser. However we are much closer to the guests here and have to respect them. One thing that I like to do is to be mobile during the main dances. I will not go on to the dance floor unless the couple agree to it (most do). The same thing goes with using a light. While I highly advise using one, I won’t if the couple doesn’t want it.
• We are at the reception to work, not party. While we are happy to talk to guests, we avoid joining the party. You will only find us at the bar to get a soft drink.
• We never stick a microphone in a guests face and ask them to say something. In fact we only do interviews outside of the main reception room, and only with guests who come to us (we ask the DJ to make an announcement that we are doing interviews). Also interviews are only conducted if specifically requested by the couple.

This is the way we work. Your videographer may be different. The important thing is that if you have any concerns, to express them to your videographer. We will make sure that we respect your wishes. We will also let you know if there will be any impact how your video will turn out.

Second in a series

You have picked out a videographer who you would like to know more about and have arranged a meeting. As I explained in the first part of this series, a meeting is not strictly necessary. If you feel comfortable with your choice, or it isn’t practical to arrange a face to face meeting (you are booking someone in another city for example), you might be doing everything over the phone. Even if you do, this article will still be relevant.

You might have the meeting at the videographer’s studio, in your home, or at another location (coffee shops are popular). First impressions are important. Is this someone who you would like to have with you on your wedding day? They don’t have to be the life of the party. I am much more of an introvert than an extrovert. That works for many couples though, as I prefer to stay out of the way and let my camera tell the story.

If you haven’t seen samples of the videographer’s work, now is a time to do it. Is their style what you want? Does it look and sound good. If you have a hard time hearing people, if the camera work is shaky and unfocused, or if the editing is choppy, you might want to look elsewhere. Ask if they have a video that was done at your ceremony or reception location. If they do, you can get an idea of how it will look in your video.

Ask how long it will take to get your DVDs. If you are getting a basic video in the off season, it might only take a few weeks. However it could take several months. Many videographers are heavily booked during the peak season, and it takes quite a few hours to edit everything, particularly if you are getting a high end package. So don’t be surprised if they say six months or more. I normally deliver the DVDs within two to four months after the wedding, depending on the package and my backlog.

Ask about payment plans.  Most videographers require that a deposit or retainer fee be paid to reserve the date. This typically varies from 20 to 50 percent. Some videographers require that the balance is paid before the wedding date, others before they begin editing, and some when the DVDs are delivered.

Most videographers prefer that editing decisions be left to them. You should certainly inform them of any special request, such as including a favorite aunt in your video, as well as anything that you do not want. However once we start editing, we prefer to edit in our style. We will usually make corrections such as misspelled names or other minor corrections if notified right after delivering the DVDs, but it is impractical to make major changes. If we do, we will charge for it.

You should ask if your videographer carries liability insurance. Not only is this a sign that he or she is a professional, but some reception venues require it. There was an example on one of the bridal shows last year where a couple had hired a uninsured photographer. When the reception location told them that vendors would have to have insurance, they were forced to get someone else.

When you have decided on a videographer, the next step will be to sign the contract and pay the deposit. Read the contract before signing. It explains what is expected and what is not. You should also know what the terms are if you have to change or cancel the date. In most cases the retainer fee is non-refundable unless the videographer can get another booking on that date.

First in a series. 

If you are a bride or groom and you are reading this, you are most likely considering a videographer for your wedding. How do you find the right one? To start with, every couple is different, and an important thing is to find someone who’s style and personality is compatible. The other important factor is choosing someone who they can count on to deliver a quality product. Therefore a good starting place is to ask friends who have had video at their wedding if they would recommend their videographer. If they do, ask to see your friend’s wedding video to get an idea of the videographer’s style. Styles change however. The work that I was doing two or three years ago is different than what I do now. Most of us evolve as we learn new things and gain experience.

If you have already hired your photographer, ask him or her for a recommendation. Photographers will often recommend someone who they work well with. Reception venues can also be a source of recommendations.

The next place to look is on the web. Search for local videographer’s websites. If they have video, look at what they offer. If they post prices, you will have an idea whether or not you can afford them. Overall the web is the best source of leads, as most videographers have a website, and many do most (or all) of their advertising there. Don’t forget to visit some of the commercial web portals like WeDJ for a list of videographers. These often have direct links to individual websites.

Another place to find a videographer is the local bridal show. Not every videographer goes to these, but there are usually a few. The nice thing about a bridal show is that you can talk to them and get an idea whether they will be who you are looking for.

Local bride’s guides can also be consulted. These as well as other print publications are much less popular than they were a few years ago, and you will not find as many companies to choose from.

Once you have picked out a few companies, the next step is to call or e-mail. Make sure that you let them know your wedding date so they can check their availability. But don’t ask the price just yet. Listen to what they can do for you. You might find that the person you are talking to is someone worth spending more on than you had originally budgeted. If they do not have any video on their website, or you can’t view their videos (this often happens if you don’t have a fast Internet connection), ask for a sample wedding or demo DVD. The preference here should be for a complete wedding video where you can view the full product, but if a demo is all that they can offer, request that. Some videographers will request that you visit them at their studio to see their work. There is nothing wrong with this. Many videographers have spent a significant amount of money to display their videos in the best possible environment.

If you want to proceed further, arrange a meeting. This may take place at the videographer’s studio, your home, or over coffee at the local Starbucks, wherever you are comfortable. Most videographer who maintain a storefront studio will want you to meet them there. Many top notch videographers have home based businesses however. In this case you might be meeting them at your home or an intermediate location.

In the next post I will talk about meeting your videographer and what to ask.

You may prefer to do everything over the phone. This is OK if you are comfortable with your videographer, especially if they are someone who was recommended to you. I have booked many clients without meeting them. Occasionally I have not met my clients until the wedding day (although I prefer to get to know them ahead of time). I have also booked clients without even a phone call. Everything was done via e-mail. I do not recommend this however. You should at least talk to them directly.

In the next post, I will discuss what to ask at the meeting.

Couples calling us often ask “what is the Wedding Highlights Program”? Here is an example. The Wedding Highlights Program distills the wedding day down to 20 to 30 minutes of video that more than anything, captures the true feeling of the day.

This is from a wedding that we did last summer. It is 24 minutes in length.

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The Wedding Highlights program is included with our Deluxe Package. Call us for more information at (610) 280-0288.

More examples of our work can be seen here on our Gallery Page.

One thing that we sometimes hear from couples who do not want video is that they don’t want any bright lights shining in their face. This misunderstanding comes from the early days of event video when cameras lacked the sensitivity that they have today. Modern equipment is not only smaller than a decade ago, but much more sensitive. There is almost no situation short of a candlelight ceremony where we would have a hard time shooting without additional lighting. Even darker churches usually have enough light for a good image.

Receptions are another story however. It is common for reception locations to turn down the lights so low that if we go with just the light in the hall, we will get nothing but dark grainy images. We just can’t shoot in the dark and expect to get anything worthwhile.

I always advise my clients that I would prefer to use a small on-camera light during the reception. Of course the more light that there is in the room, the less light that I will need to use. Another thing that I request is that they talk to the banquet manager about leaving the lights up for the introductions and main dances. If they do, we can often dispense with the light for these. Unfortunately this is sometimes not communicated to the staff and the lights are turned down anyway.

There are some videographers who bring in lights mounted on stands to light up the dance floor. We do not do that as it would create a safety hazard as well as ruining the atmosphere. But having some additional light is a given at most receptions. I usually use a 10 watt light on top of the camera. It doesn’t flood the room, but provides just enough light to make the image pop.

Both the videographer and photographer work harder than any other vendors on your wedding day. We are there from the time the bride is getting ready, to the end of the reception. That can often be a 12 hour day. When we leave our work has just begun. Videographers have anywhere from 20 to 80 hours of capturing video, editing, and making DVDs. Photographers spend a similar amount of time working on the photos.

You can help make our day better with a few simple tips:

• If you are planning both photos and video, let the photographer know that you are having both. While videographers usually assume that there will be photography, photographers don’t always do. The vast majority of photographers and videographers work well together, but there is a small minority who don’t. If you have any objections, you should consider hiring someone else.
• Let your photographer and videographer know when events are occurring during the day. If we don’t know about the special toast that your uncle will be giving during dinner, we can’t cover it. You can appoint a member of the bridal party to keep us informed.
• Let us know who is special to you. If you have an elderly grandparent who you really want photo and  video of, let us know.
• Meals. We work a long day. It is considered good form to make sure that all vendors who will be at the reception are fed. The photographer and videographer should eat when the guests eat, as this is when there is not many photos or videos being taken. As mentioned above, make sure that if something does occur, that we know about it beforehand.
• We don’t expect tips, so don’t feel that you have to. But we do love a compliment. Let us know if we did a good job. The best compliment of all is a referral. If you like our work, recommend us.

Most professions have their organizations. Wedding videography is no exception. We currently have two, the Wedding and Event Videographers Association International (WEVA) and the 4Ever Group. Both of these groups represent the interests of the wedding and event videography industry. Both have annual conventions. Many videographers (myself included) belong to both. What they do not require however, is any form of professional certification or licensing. WEVA does offer a certification, but few have obtained it. Anyone who calls him or herself a professional videographer can join.

Does this mean that being a member of these groups says nothing about the professionalism of your videographer. Not necessarily. For one thing, membership dues are high enough that someone who is not making a serious commitment to this business is less likely to join. The other thing is that both organizations put a major effort into education. The 4Ever Group has their convention in January (just concluded), and WEVA has theirs in August (with a second smaller show this month). These are incredible opportunities to learn and to take event video to a higher level. I always say that the couple who’s wedding I am editing right after the WEVA Expo is lucky, for they are the first to get the benefit of all that I have learned there. Like any profession, education never ceases.

Besides WEVA and 4Ever Group there are a number of local organizations. These in my opinion, are even more valuable than the national organizations. For it is here that videographers really exchange ideas and learn from each other. As a group, event videographers are very open. The good ones do not feel threatened by their competition. As a result, ideas flow freely. In Philadelphia our local organization is the Greater Philadelphia Videographers Association (GPVA). It is one of the largest and most active in the United States. GPVA’s membership is also one of the most talented. This year four of our members made the EventDV 25 list of the top 25 event videographers in the world (Dave Williams, Tim Sudall, Glen Elliot, and Darrell Aubert). That raises the bar for all of us. I have learned from all of them, and it makes me better at my own work.

Finally there are the online forums. While these don’t qualify as professional organizations in the classic sense, they are a fantastic source of information. I have learned as much if not more here than from WEVA or GPVA. If your videographer frequents them, they will be ahead of the game. The two main ones are Video University, and WedVidPro.

Does all of this mean that if your videographer is not a member of a professional organization that they are not as good as someone who is? No. There are a lot of excellent videographers who for reasons of their own, do not want to join. The point here is that being an active member of an organization (or online forum) indicates a desire to improve one’s skills and professionalism.

One thing that I notice when talking with other videographers or looking at their work it how different we all are, even if we are covering the same thing.  When viewing someone else’s video, I often think “why don’t I edit that way?” or “I would never thought of using that camera angle”. The fact is that as individuals, we each bring a different way of looking at things.

Like most of us, I am influenced by what I see my peers doing, as well as what I see on television or in the movies. All of this affects my own style. But that doesn’t mean that I am copying others. I have my own style because that is how my mind works. I can’t (and would not want to) get inside someone else’s head.  So, what I produce is my own way of seeing things. And that is true for everyone else in this industry.

 My style is what I would call “cinematic/documentary”. It uses a lot of music, soft imagery, slow motion. I believe that I appeal to the bride who wants a soft, romantic story of her wedding day. That said, I have been making some changes. I have been using less slow motion, and have been adding more fast cuts (particularly during the reception coverage). Why? Because of what I have seen others doing. I liked what I saw and want to incorporate this into my own style. But it is still my style.

What does this mean for the bride and groom looking for a videographer to cover their wedding? The important thing is that they find someone who’s work fits their personality. Some couples want soft/romantic, others fast/cutting edge, others do not want anything more than a basic no-frills record of the day, without any interpretation (we can give you that in our Basic Package). When shopping for a videographer, the first stop should be to visit their website. Many videographers have samples  right on the site (including us). If they don’t or you can’t view them online, call and ask for a sample DVD. Even if you can’t afford them, look at samples for the top videographers in the country (try Googling “EventDV 25″). Now most of us are not in that rarefied category, but we still produce very fine work. What it comes down to is simply what do you like. What moves you. It is a personal decision. There is no one right or wrong style. It comes down to how you would like YOUR wedding day to be recorded.

Beyond basic competence, it really is all about our style fitting your style. If you educate yourself on the range of styles that we are doing, it will be easier to find that videographer who is “just right” for you.

One difference between the today’s videographers (well most of them) and those of 10 or 20 years ago, is that we pride ourselves on maintaining a low profile. We work hard to make sure that we record the day while being inconspicuous. Good photographers do the same (especially with the “wedding photojournalism” style which is popular today). Everyone is different in how they maintain that low profile. Here are a few things that we do:

At the ceremony:

Except for the processional and recessional, we usually keep our cameras on tripods at all times. Two cameras are on the side aisles, and one in back. The tripods are not moved unless the view of the bride or groom is blocked.We dress in dark clothes. This makes us less conspicuous both on tape and to the guests.Minimize movement. While two videographers and three cameras means that some movement is necessary, we keep it to a minimum.Make sure that everything is set up prior to the start of the ceremony. This way we aren’t running around trying to “fix something”.

NO LIGHTS! This goes without saying. No videographer with modern equipment ever needs additional lighting for a wedding with the possible exception of a candlelight service. The reception is another matter (see below).

We always introduce ourselves to the officiant before the ceremony, let him or her know where we will be, and ask if there are any restrictions.Of course at a non-church wedding we may modify the rules. But always with the idea of maintaining a low profile.

At the Reception:

As mentioned above we do not use lights at the ceremony. This is usually not advisable at most reception venues. These are almost always dimly lit. While our cameras have excellent low light ability, they can’t see in the dark. As the lights go down, so does the quality of the picture. I have made the mistake in the past of thinking that I would get an acceptable image in dim light, and have been disappointed (as has my client). So now unless the reception hall is well lit, I use a light. That light however is small (only 10 watts) and doesn’t have much range, but it is enough to produce quality video.

No table interviews. We have never done these, and never will. Many people dislike having someone shove a microphone in their face and ask them to “say a few words” to the bride and groom. We do conduct inverviews upon request, but in another room off the main reception area. We have the DJ announce us, and those who want to say something are invited to come over and record their greetings.

Minimize posed shots. We leave formal photography to the photographer. Our job is to record the days as it unfolds, not to set up shots or direct the wedding party.

Professional conduct. We are always courteous and respectful. If someone doesn’t want the camera pointed at them, we make sure that it isn’t. We are there to work. We don’t party with the guests. The only food we eat is what has been arranged for us by the reception venue, and we never drink alcoholic beverages while working.

Ok, you would like to have a video of your wedding. What do you look for in a videographer? Like with photographers, there are a wide range of styles, personalities, and prices. Lets take a look at each of these.

Style - First think of how you would like your wedding day story to be told.
Go on the Internet and visit as many wedding videographer’s sites as you can. They don’t have to be local, you are trying determine what type of video is meaningful to you. Look at samples clips on their sites. You may prefer a romantic approach, a fast paced “MTV style” video, or perhaps a no-frills documentary of the wedding. One thing to remember however, is that your wedding video will be viewed many years from now, by yourself, your children, and perhaps your grandchildren. So before deciding on something really contemporary, and cutting edge, think of how it will play twenty years from now.

Once you have an idea about what you are looking for, the next step is to narrow your search to local videographers (unless you have the funds to pay for out of town talent to fly in for your wedding). Again, use the Internet. But don’t stop there. There are some excellent videographers who do not have a web presence. Ask friends who had a wedding video made for recommendations. Photographers, reception venues, DJs and other vendors can also supply names. If your are having a church wedding, ask your pastor if he or she can recommend someone. In a church wedding it is important that the videographer (and photographer), be unobtrusive and respectful. If the church has had a good experience with a videographer, they will be happy to recommend them. This is also a good time to find out if your church has any restrictions on video. You wouldn’t want to hire a videographer and find out that video isn’t allowed during the ceremony. Church restrictions can also affect the style of video that can be made. If for instance, cameras are only allowed in the balcony, you might not be able to have the tight closeups of your vows that you will see in many demos.

Once you have narrowed the list down, the next step is to call or visit. Yes, call. While most videographers, myself included, are happy to book a client by e-mail, a phone call will tell you a lot more about them. It is important to get a feel for the personality of your videographer. He or she will be with you all day, from getting ready to the last dance. Think of it this way, would you invite them as a wedding guest? If you are not comfortable with that person, you don’t want to have them as your videographer. Also ask to see a complete wedding. Most of us have streaming video on our websites, usually short clips, not complete weddings. You want to see the whole package. If you are visiting a videographer at their studio, they will usually show you a full wedding right there. If you are calling, ask to have them mail you a sample, or to arrange to view a wedding at the studio (whatever they prefer).

Full-timer or part-timer? This is not as important as you might think. A large proportion of professional videographers (almost half in my market), do not have a full time video business (I am a part-timer myself). This does not make them any less capable or reliable. I know of onepart-time videographer in our area, who has probably won more artistic acheivement awards recently then anyone else in the country. What is important is that they love what they are doing. Most people who I know in this business, whether they are full or part time do. Seeing their work will tell you. Like any art form, the passion that the artist has for his or her craft is reflected in their work.

Price - I left this for last. While it is natural to ask about the price first, you should really look at a videographer’s work first. All couples have a budget, In most cases it is flexible. If you find someone whose work is astounding, but is a bit too expensive, think about stretching or reallocating some of your wedding funds. Remember, this is something that will be a family heirloom.

You can spend $500 for a wedding video. You can also spend $10,000. Do you get what you pay for. To an extent yes. I know of several high end videographers in our area who start at $5,000. Are they worth it. In their case yes. They do outstanding work. But if you don’t have that budget, don’t assume that you have to settle for mediocre work. A talented part-timer might produce a fantastic video for less, often a lot less. I for example, currently charge from $1700 to $2600. I can do that and still turn a profit because I don’t depend on my video business to pay the bills. As I work out of my home, I don’t have rent to pay on a studio. In addition I have no full-time employees. Just one assistant working as an independent contractor. In some cases people just starting out might even do a few of weddings for free to build up their porfolio. You take a chance with them, but if you are short on cash, it is often a good deal. You may be plesantly surprised. I did my first three weddings for free. All three couples loved their video, and I had my protfolio.

The price that you will pay also depends on where you live. Small towns typically are much less expensive than big cities. Another big price factor is whether you want a full package, or a no-frills video. For a few hundred dollars you can have someone turn up at your wedding with one camera and a microphone, and tape the ceremony and reception. The only editing will be in the camera. Some couples may be ok with this type of no-frills video. Just don’t expect a full package for this price (unless the videographer is just starting out). For full service companies the work has only started when the videographer packs up at the end of the night. Editing takes up most of the time spent producing the video. It is not uncommon for an editor to spend upwards of 40 to 60 hours on one full wedding package.

I haven’t talked about the technical aspects yet. We have to shoot in dark churches and reception halls with (in the case of churches), no supplemental lighting. We have no script. There are no retakes. What we do have is the knowledge and equipment to create the best possible product. This is reason enough to hire a pro. Another is audio. While we call ourselves “Videographers”, we are as much (if not more so) “Audiographers”. Try watching a television show with the sound off. Then try listening without watching. It is easier to follow the action by listening to the audio, than by watching the video. Most of us use tools such as wireless microphones, and multi-channel pickup to capture the best possible audio.

When evaluating a videographer’s product, watch and listen carefully. Is the video unsteady most the time? Does the color shift? Is the audio clear and understandable? We can’t achieve perfection technically, given the circumstances, but we strive for the best that we can do. As a few flaws are inevitable, you should judge the video on the following: Do technical flaws (bad video, audio, or poor edits) draw your attention. If they do, would it bother you if the flaws were in your video? Then you can decide whether this videographer’s product is acceptable technically.

In conclusion, decide what style suits you best, what you can afford, and most of all, decide on someone whom you can trust to retell your wedding story in a meaningful way.

Alan