Wedding Video - Plan Before You Sign that Contract
The wedding video is a timeless detail that can bring lasting
memories for years to come There's a list of questions you
should present to several wedding videographers prior to selecting 'the one.' You
can consider it an interview, where you are the boss that is
looking to hire the right candidate for the job. And that's
exactly how it is: you need someone to perform a task for you.
Is this person qualified? Can they be trusted? Will they be able
to deliver everything they're promising?
Instead of throwing your trust on the line, the following
questions should let you know if this wedding videographer is
'the one' you want to hire for your wedding.
How long have you been a wedding videographer? Anyone with a
camcorder can call themselves a 'videographer' because they
video-taped their kid sister's recital. You want to make sure
you're dealing with a professional. How long has this person
been in the business? How many weddings has this person
documented? You want to make sure that you're hiring someone
that's long-term, not here today-gone the day before your
wedding.
Are you the same person that will videotape my wedding? While
this question may seem irrelevant, it's really not. Basically
you're trying to find out if this is the person that will be
documenting your wedding. Wouldn't you be surprised if someone
else showed up? It actually happens. Confirm that this man/woman
is the same person that will be taping your wedding video on
your wedding day.
What kind of lighting do you use? If they say natural light,
walk the other way. This doesn't sound like a professional. Some
videographers use lights on their cameras, others use
stand-alone soft box-like lights.
What type of microphones do you use? The quality of sound is
just as important as the quality of the wedding video. What good
is a videotape with muffles, echoes, and inaudible mumbling?
Most modern grooms and brides wear wireless microphones on their
tuxedos and gowns during the wedding ceremony. This way the
exchange of vows can actually be heard. Make sure to discuss
microphone placement with your videographer prior to the big day.
Can I have my Video on DVD instead of VHS? It's a standard
question. Many modern couples find VHS out-dated. Nevertheless,
while DVD quality is much better, Videotapes can withstand a
little more. If your DVD gets scratched, it may skip. Despite
this, many videographers can customize their DVDs with wedding
chapters, scene selections, and a customized case that displays
your wedding picture.
How can I obtain a sample of your work? Ideally, you want to see
an actual demo VHS/DVD in person. However, it's a very
contemporary trend for videographers to send you to their
websites to view a polished sample of their recent work. Let the
videographer know that you'd prefer to see an actual demo VHS
tape or DVD.
Your John Hancock, please! Ah, signing the contract. Before you
put the tip of your pen to that paper, make sure that all of
your verbal agreement coincide with what is written in print.
Ask how much of a deposit is required and make sure that your
deposit is removed from the final balance. Bring a close friend
or your fianc