Wedding Photography Videography – Is It For You
Wedding photography videography has been an important part of the wedding market for several years. Many couples are eager to have the entire event captured on DVD. Couples often express that they have very little memory of their wedding day, since they were both nervous and quite busy, and the video record provides them with a great look at what actually transpired.
No matter what the market, someone is always trying to cash in on the latest trend by saying he or she can do one thing with very little – if any – experience to back it up. Just because a photographer is skilled at still photography doesn’t mean that same photographer is capable of filming an event on videotape. Just because your affordable wedding photography package includes wedding photography/videography doesn’t mean the final video will be any good.
When selecting your videographer, it is very important to view examples of his or her previous work. As anyone who has taken video of a vacation or kids at play knows, wedding photography videography is not easy. It takes special talent and training to produce professional quality video. Additionally, viewing the videographer’s work will give you a feel for his or her overall style as well as the elements on which the videographer chooses to focus.
Interview prospective wedding videographers just as carefully as you would potential professional wedding photographers. Presented here is a list of suggested questions. You may have additional questions based on your individual circumstances.
1. Will you be the actual videographer for my wedding?
As with photographers, some studios employ staff videographers. You want to meet with the actual person who will film your wedding. A corollary question is whether the sample video you view was recorded on the same type of equipment that will be used at your wedding.
2. How much control will I have over the elements that are included in the video?
Many couples give little thought to their wedding video, instead turning full control over to the videographer. Yet the wedding video is your living record of your carefully planned wedding day. Choose a wedding videography professional who will work with you to help you decide which events should be covered and how the final video should be edited.
3. What type of backup equipment do you carry and how does the backup compare to the original?
Your wedding day is a one-time event. If the videographer’s equipment fails, it is crucial that he or she can switch quickly and seamlessly to a backup. However, some backup equipment is older and crude by today’s standards. Be sure that the backup equipment is of acceptable quality.
4. What format of equipment do you use and what is your experience level with that format?
As with photography, the digital versus film debate rages in videography as well. Both formats have their own advantages and disadvantages. Whichever format you select, be sure that the videographer is comfortable and experienced with that format.
5. What extra fees might I incur?
Discuss available packages and extras that you might need. Negotiate all fees; even those that you think will not apply such as overtime. Try to get the videographer to work certain extras into your package price. Affordable wedding photography/videography is available but you may need to enter into careful negotiations. A 3 O Clock wedding on a Saturday will be his busiest time but you shouldn’t be paying above his normal rate if you booked him early enough.
While it’s great to have traditional wedding photography, wedding photography videography can enhance your experience. Why stop at still photographs when you can get the full experience of sight and sound to go with those images? If you have your heart set on filming your wedding, and your wedding photography studio doesn’t offer that option, ask the photographer in charge if he can refer someone to you. Take your time and shop for the right person to do the job, and you won’t be disappointed.
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