9 tips for picking your wedding videographer
Your wedding day is one of the most important moments of your life, and capturing it through film allows you to relive those precious memories for years to come. The right videographer can beautifully encapsulate the emotions, the laughter, and the little details that make your day unique. But with so many options out there, how do you ensure you pick the perfect one?
Myself and Emily understand the importance of not just filming the events, but crafting a beautiful, emotional story that will bring joy for years to come.
Here are our tips on choosing a videographer who will not only capture every moment but also be your unofficial bridesmaid, always nearby and ready to assist with anything you need.
Consider the style of film
Before you start searching for a videographer, it's essential to know what style you prefer. Do you like a cinematic, documentary, or traditional approach? Cinematic films often have a more dramatic, movie-like feel, with creative angles and editing, while documentary-style videos focus on telling the story of your day in a more straightforward, journalistic way. Understanding your preferred style will help you narrow down your options.
Here are a few popular styles to consider:
Cinematic: A storytelling approach that uses dramatic camera angles and editing techniques to create an emotional movie-like experience.
Traditional documentary: A more straightforward approach, often including posed shots and standard moments like the ceremony, toasts, and first dances.
Artistic: Experimental and creative, often involving unique angles, effects, or unconventional editing.
Browse different videographers’ portfolios to identify which style resonates with you and your partner.
Personal chemistry is paramount
Your videographer will be present during intimate and emotional moments throughout your day, so their personality and approach are important. They should be unobtrusive, yet present enough to capture key moments. Make sure their style of working aligns with your expectations—whether that means being in the background or offering more direction. They should be someone who you both get on with and feels like a guest at your wedding rather than just another vendor.
Examine their portfolio thoroughly
A videographer’s portfolio is a valuable window into their capabilities and style.
Highlight reels are a great way to get a sense of a videographer’s style, but it’s important to watch their full wedding films to see how they capture the entire day. Pay attention to how they edit transitions, use music, and capture emotions. A full film will give you a better idea of their storytelling ability and whether their style aligns with your vision.
Pay close attention to how they handle different parts of the wedding day.
Do the films include a variety of shots, from sweeping aerials to intimate close-ups?
How well do they capture the key emotions and moments of the day?
Are shots smooth and properly exposed?
A strong portfolio should demonstrate a seamless blend of emotional storytelling with visually stunning cinematography.
Clarify the turnaround time
Ask about the expected delivery time for the final product. Some videographers may take longer to deliver a polished video. Knowing the timeline helps manage your expectations and ensures you’re not left waiting indefinitely.
Emotional storytelling and editing
The ability to tell a story through a wedding film is what sets apart good videographers from great ones. Emotional storytelling involves more than just capturing the event; it’s about weaving the significant moments, the looks, the laughter, the tears, into a compelling narrative that speaks to the heart. The editing process is where these stories come to life, hence it is crucial to choose a videographer who showcases strong editing skills in their portfolio. Look for videos that build a narrative arc, as this is indicative of a professional who understands both the art of film and the essence of a memorable wedding.
All-day coverage should be standard
A significant red flag in choosing a videographer is limited coverage. Your wedding does not end at the speeches, and neither should the film of your day. While photographers can knock off earlier, late evening celebrations and the first dance should absolutely be standard for wedding films. Be wary of videographers who charge extra for what should be included as basic service. Full-day coverage is essential to capturing the full story of your wedding day.
Inquire backup plans
Check if the videographer has contingency plans for unexpected situations like equipment failure or personal emergencies. It’s important to know that your big day will be captured no matter what happens.
Look for Flexibility
A good videographer should be able to adapt to changes in the schedule or weather conditions. They should be flexible and capable of capturing beautiful moments under any circumstances.
Read couple reviews
What previous couples say about their experience with the videographer can give you invaluable insight into what your experience might be like. Look for comments on the person’s professionalism, flexibility, and the quality of the final product. High praise in these areas is usually a good indicator of a videographer who will go the extra mile to capture your day perfectly.
Trust your instincts
Finally, trust your instincts. If you feel a strong connection with a videographer and love their work, that’s a good sign that they’re the right choice for you. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, so it’s crucial to choose someone who you believe will capture it in a way that reflects your unique love story.
Choosing the right wedding videographer is a significant decision that will impact how you remember your special day. By taking the time to define your style, do your research, and communicate clearly with potential videographers, you’ll be well on your way to finding someone who can create a beautiful, lasting film of your wedding day. Happy planning!
