Finding the Right One
Your wedding films, (after your photos) will be your most cherished keepsake from the big day. You'll eagerly want to share them when your videographer hands them to you, and you'll look back at them 50 years from now, reminiscing about your vows, the kiss, and the first dance.
Choosing the right videographer to capture those poignant moments is an important decision. It's crucial to find a professional who understands your vision for your wedding day and can document it with style. Moreover, you'll want someone you trust and feel comfortable with since they will be by your side the entire wedding day.
To help you find the right person to entrust with this task, follow our guide to selecting the perfect wedding videographer.
Book your venue first.
It's a smart idea to hire your videographer after you've secured your venue. Aim to book their services about nine months before the wedding (or a year if your videographer is in high demand).
Hit up your social network for recommendations.
Ask your recently married friends whose wedding films you loved and solicit recommendations from your wedding planner or the manager of your reception site.
Figure out the style of videography you like.
Do your homework and spend some time getting a sense of the style of film you like. Maybe it's vibrant with lots of saturated colors, or perhaps you prefer a more vintage look with more washed-out tones and a dreamy, nostalgic feel. Once you've found a handful of videographers whose aesthetic aligns with yours, email each person and inquire about if they're available on your wedding date and their videography rates. If the ones you're interested in are available on your date and if their fees are within your budget, then you can schedule initial meetings.
Interview the videographers.
Most videographers will email you a link to their portfolio of videos before your first meeting. Be sure the collection includes recent weddings they have filmed from start to finish, not just a "best of" highlight reel from dozens of different weddings. This is a more accurate way to gauge the videographer's work. Also, ask if the videographer has filmed at your venue and if so, request to see those films.
During the meeting, find out who exactly will film on your wedding day. Some larger studios employ several videographers, and even with single-person operations, it's not unusual for the videographer to have an assistant handle shots of the groom getting ready while they focus on the bride and bridesmaids. In all cases, request to see the work of the videographer (or videographers) who will be handling your wedding.
Discuss the fee.
Some videographers' fees include everything, including ceremony films, toasts and dance films. Others have a flat or hourly rate, then charge you à la carte for any videos or additional services you want. Many videographers offer a price list that details several different packages they offer at different price points. Make sure that you understand what's included. Ask how long the videographer will spend with you (seven to 10 hours is ideal) and whether there will be a second shooter, as you'll get more detail shots this way.
Also inquire about when you can expect to receive everything, from a sneak peek of videos (some videographers can give you a handful within a few days) to final edits (usually up to three-six months) to your fully edited wedding film (up to a year).
Go with your gut.
Once you've evaluated each videographer's work and fees, and narrowed down the options, it's time to make your decision. Don't forget that you'll be spending the entire wedding day with this person, so you want to make sure you feel completely comfortable with the videographer. Do you and your fiancé genuinely like this person? Do you feel like the three of you click?
Schedule a test run.
An engagement videography session is always a good idea—it's a great opportunity to get to know your videographer and begin to feel comfortable being in front of the camera, especially if you or your groom are camera-shy.
Selecting the right videographer is a crucial step in ensuring that your wedding day is beautifully captured, allowing you to relive those special moments for years to come. Take your time, do your research, and make a choice that aligns with your vision and style. Your wedding films will be a cherished treasure, so invest in a videographer who can make them truly unforgettable.