Engagement season is upon us, which means booking season is around the corner. If you or someone you love is getting married soon (and considering hiring a videography team), you need to understand and consider all of these factors before signing the dotted line.
From style to the reviews, you will be an expert by the end of this article.
Understand Their Style
Filmmaking is an art, and as an art, is inherently subjective. From the choice of color correction to music, effects, titles, transitions, etc. Make sure their style resonates with you. If you really like *most* of their work, but a few things are throwing you off, communicate that with them ahead of time! Any reasonable wedding videographer will cater your film to you!
Audio
Good-quality audio is what separates the pros from the amateurs. Listen to their portfolio work, does the audio included take you into the moment, or pull you out of it? You really want your videographer to prioritize high-quality audio as it is one of the biggest differentiates from photos.
Storytelling
How well can they tell a story? Do you get goosebumps when you watch their films? Do you cry? Do you feel like you were there, in on the action? Being able to tell a story is challenging, but you can really tell the difference between a quality videographer and an amateur based on story.
Response Time
Initial response time lets you know a lot about a person. Are they replying to your email within a day or two asking to get on a phone call or has it been over a week since you’ve reached out with no response? In my personal experience, those who emphasize immediately forming relationships with inquiring couples are generally more passionate about their work. Anecdotally, they also seem to be more punctual (which is super important for your wedding).
Note: During peak wedding season (June-August), there might be an exception, as some creatives are absolutely swamped during this time.
Friendliness
During your initial call or meeting, how do they greet you? Do they go in for a hug? Do they ask you how your day has been? How well do you click with them? These people are going to be following you around on the most important day of your life so making sure that you feel comfortable around them is essential.
Trendiness
Keep in mind, that many color trends that are popular now, might not be popular in 30 years. It’s only natural for things to become outdated over time, but communicating with your videographer that you’d prefer a timeless approach may result in a delayed aging process.
Referrals & Reviews
Read their reviews, heck, call their past clients and ask for their opinions. If you’re working with other vendors, ask them if they’ve heard of or worked with your wedding videographer before and grab their opinion.
Coverage
Make sure you have a thorough understanding of how much coverage you actually need. Per hour rates add up quickly. Do you really want your videographer to sit through your entire reception to capture your sparkler exit? Most videographers won’t allow for pay gaps during the day. Meaning, you’ll be paying them from the start of the day to their goodbyes. If you’re on a budget it may be worth scheduling photo & video around only the most important moments.
The Contract
A videography contract is a very real contract dealing with a large sum of money and time that you’ll never be able to get back. Read through your contract. Double read it. Make sure that you understand what it means and receive clarification on things you don’t. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you don’t agree on certain sections, work with your videographer to make amendments. The ball is in your court, you are the client here.
Take finding your videographer as seriously as finding your photographer
This is a once in a lifetime event and quite a big investment, it’s not something to take lightly. You really want to make sure your videographer will be the right fit before you sign the dotted line. Take all of these tips to heart as it will greatly impact your wedding day.
About the Author
Meet Ariana, who is, ironically, a wedding filmmaker. What a surprise! Hehe.
Ariana is based in Vancouver, British Columbia and defines herself as the girl who is crying during your ceremony, in a good way.
If you want to learn more about her wedding films, click here.
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