Wedding Video: An Active Memory to Last a Lifetime

A wedding video keeps the image of your wedding day alive for ever. They allow you to listen to your vows with your future children, and see your friends and family celebrating over and over again. A wedding video will be a treasured family heirloom and historical document, making your choice of videographer an extremely important one.

Bright lights, tripping over wires, and headache-inducing images…if this is your concept of a videographer, forget about it. Times have changed. Today's top videographers have access to the same tools and technology as many feature film makers. Crystal clear pictures and sound are available.

When researching videography, don't shop price, shop quality. After all, you are investing in your memories. Be prepared to spend more than you thought you would, rather than spending less that you should. Fact is, no one ever thought they spent too much on videography, only too little. When you visit each studio, find out who will be attending your event, and ask to see actual finished client tapes of their work. Ask about their equipment because a 3-chip camera is a must, and while it is going to cost more, this is what separates a professional from Uncle Charlie and will ultimately decide how your video looks. How will they edit the tape into a polished production? (there is no such thing as an in-camera edit) A professional wedding videographer wears many hats; salesman, cameraman, editor, graphic artist, and it takes some years to master this combination. As you compare, try to stick to the basics. Ask yourself while you watch the tape, how does the bride look? Is the footage clear and steady or out-of-focus and jumpy? Can you hear the people speaking? (the music, readers, officiant, as well as the bride and groom) Does the video tell a complete story of the day? After a few minutes you should get a feeling for their style and if it's for you.

Finally, are you comfortable with their personality? Will your videographer attend the rehearsal to find out the best angle to shoot from? Does he bring back-up equipment and tape? Do they belong to a professional association like the Wedding and Event Videographers Association International (WEVA) to continually improve their craft? You might want extra copies or your weeding story on DVD. Make sure to check with your ceremony and reception site to find out about restrictions for video.

Have fun watching the mini-movies that today's wedding videographers create!