Written By | Meg Rallis
Photos By | Maksym Sydko Photography
your favorite movie
Yes, it is true. You will thank us later for advising you to hire a videographer, but who you choose to hire is so hard. Style, look, price, and personality of your videographer will also play into your decision. Let’s look at few things before you take action, starting with what makes a good wedding video.
Emotion in Motion:
Wedding videography captures the raw emotions and candid moments that can’t be fully conveyed through photographs alone. From the exchange of vows to that tear-inducing first dance, a well-made wedding video allows you to relive these priceless moments time and time again.
Storytelling:
A skilled videographer can craft a cinematic story of your wedding day. They artfully piece together scenes, sound, and music to create a compelling narrative that will tug at your heartstrings every time you watch it. Let a professional paint the picture for you, editing the hours of endless footage down to the good bits!
Behind-the-Scenes:
Ever wonder what your partner was up to while you were getting your hair done? A videographer captures the behind-the-scenes moments that provide a glimpse into the excitement, nervousness, and camaraderie of the day.
Audio & Vows:
Videography preserves the spoken vows, speeches, and laughter that make your wedding unique. Hearing your partner’s vows and your loved ones’ toasts can evoke strong emotions that photos alone simply cannot replicate.
Editing:
The videographer’s skillful use of techniques like pacing, transitions, and color grading enhances the overall cohesive and visually engaging story viewing experience.
PRO TIP:
“One of the biggest things about wedding videography I remind our clients is: what they actually are investing in is the audio captured from their day – A toast from a loved one or heartfelt words said before a special moment are what really make the video worth it, especially when that loved one is no longer alive a few years down the road. Combined with the images captured, good audio provides a day that you can RELIVE over and over again, and remind yourself of how far you’ve come in your marriage when you look back.”
~ Jian Salcedo, from Salcedo Films
questions to ask
Keep in mind some things may cost extra or affect the timeline if they are not included in the package. The main thing is to ask enough questions that you have an idea of what to expect. Being on the same page with your wedding pros – expectation wise – is one of the best things you can do. Then, if there are differences, you can come up with solutions before it is too late.
- What is your experience?
Ensure your videographer has experience with wedding videography. Look at their online portfolio and previous work. - What’s included?
Get a clear understanding of what you’ll receive in the end. Is it a full-length video, a highlight reel, or both? Are you allowed to make changes? - Do you have a backup plan?
In case of equipment failure or an emergency, your videographer should have a contingency plan to ensure nothing is missed. - Do you take requests?
If you have specific requests or must-have moments, discuss them beforehand to ensure they’re included. - Average delivery timeline?
It is a good idea to have an estimate of when you can expect your final wedding video. You’ll be excited to relive your day, but editing video takes time, so having a realistic timeline is a good idea. - Do you use a drone?
Aerial shots and swooping drone footage can add a touch of cinematic flair to your wedding video, find out if this is a service they offer.
PRO TIP
“Of course photography freezes those moments for you, but video makes you feel like you are truly there. It’s your very own Hallmark movie. It’s important for a couple to know that in deciding the videographer, they are also choosing an artist’s viewpoint. Ask for sample videos to help make the right choice for you. Not everyone is the same and not everyone has high quality equipment to give you that cinema look.”
~ Shelby Hall, from Shelby Chanté Photography
what is your style
Let’s face it, we don’t all love the same kind of movies. No matter what your style, there is a videographer for you. Browse through some of these video styles. Which one are you?
Cinematic Style:
This style mimics the look and feel of a movie, with attention to detail, creative shots, and the use of music to evoke emotion. It’s perfect for couples who want their wedding day to feel like a blockbuster.
Documentary Style:
A documentary-style video captures your day in a chronological, unscripted manner. It’s great for couples who want to relive their day exactly as it happened, without artistic embellishments.
Journalistic Style:
A journalistic videographer captures your wedding like a news story. They focus on the “who, what, when, and where” and may not include as much artistic flair, but it provides a straightforward account of the day.
Your wedding day will be a whirlwind of memorable moments. However, hiring a wedding videographer ensures you’ll have a front-row seat to all the tears of joy as they fall. From the “I do’s” to the dance floor moves, your wedding video will be perfect for a cozy night in with popcorn and a few good laughs or to show off to the grandchildren as you remember when! Congratulations and remember to dance like nobody’s watching (even though the videographer is).
XOXO, MET WED