Wedding Videography 101 And Beyond

Submitted By: Tracy Misner, Videotimes, Inc.

Finding a "good" videographer/videography company can be a time consuming proposition. We're here to help you even if you DON'T book our services. We have found that educating the bride and groom actually brings us MORE business in the long run.

There are three things you are going to look for in any vendor you look at, whether it is photography, floral, or video. First, you want quality. There is no excuse for not getting good quality in any vendor. Don't be misled by equating quality with expense. Secondly, you want to look for his/her enthusiasm to work with you as a team player. And finally, probably the most overlooked aspect to your vendor - superior business skills. We will highlight the three aspects of quality vendors here, but emphasize this as it pertains to your videographer.

In video, you really should look to see if the quality of the images is clear and the sound is audible and understandable. You want to see that the editing (how scenes flow from each other). You also want to look for the videographer's style of shooting and editing. Also, look to see if he/she captures the moments almost as if they were staged. A good videographer makes this look easy because he/she knows what will happen BEFORE the bride/groom do. For this, we recommend viewing at least three videographers. As you view videographers, pay attention to how he/she relates his work to YOUR wedding. Many videographers will throw industry-related terminology at you to bolster their own ego. Remember, there is no substitute for experience, anticipation, and intuition. That's their best equipment and either they have it or they don't.

You should look at a videographer's enthusiasm to work as a team player. If you have chosen your photographer, ask him/her for their recommendations. Many times, the photographer recommends a videographer that is reliable and EASY to work with as a team player. When you talk to your potential videographer, relate your questions no matter how trivial you might think they are. Professional videographers actually like answering questions - it shows that you're interested in their work. A negative attitude in the initial conversation can only mean a negative attitude later on. A friendly positive attitude helps your day go smoother. Remember, this is your wedding day-YOU are in charge, not the vendor.

Finally, you should look at the business skill of the vendor. In this case, you should look to see if he has printed materials, a WRITTEN contract that is not filled with legalese, and a professional order of how he/she conducts business. Look to see how his studio is run. This could be your indication of what you can expect down the road. You might want to ask the dreaded question, what is his plan B if he cannot make it to your wedding. Many professional videographers in Atlanta actually refer business to their competition in those instances. Some even have multiple crews. A good business videographer will be there long after the bad business videographer has closed his doors!

Whomever you choose for your wedding video company, you should feel relaxed that you made a wise choice. Do not ever feel pressured into your decision. Atlanta has over 2,500 weddings per month -- most of them on a Saturday. Make your decisions as soon as you can. If your first choice for wedding videographer is taken, ask him/her for a recommendation.

© Tracy Misner, Videotimes, Inc., Atlanta, Georgia

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