How Do I Find a Wedding Videographer? Is It Worth It?

A lot of couples are on the fence about hiring a videographer. Some think it’s too much of an expense – it’s like the low hanging fruit of expense cutting at weddings. When will you ever watch your wedding video? Other people want to have actual video footage of the processional, vows, speeches and first dance. I actually watch my wedding highlight video with my husband every few anniversaries. It’s fun to see parts of the wedding that we missed – the day went by so quickly and there was a lot that we weren’t part of or plain didn’t remember! Plus I’ll be able to show it to my kids one day. That’s pretty cool.

In this day and age, you can pretty much have any kind of video you want. Do you want something documentary style with interviews and audio? Movie trailer-like? Something more romantic with love songs and lots of fancy transitions? Similar to how you would approach hiring a wedding photographer, think about what is important to you in a video. What expectations do you have? What shots will you require?

Since this is usually one of the last vendors you will book, run the list of potential videographers with your wedding planner or photographer – they will likely have worked with many over the years and will have some recommendations and advice.

Just be sure that your ceremony and reception venue allow the use of video equipment.

Questions to ask:

• Who is shooting and editing the wedding and is there a backup should you fall ill?
• How many weddings have you shot/edited?
• Can I see examples of your work?
• Will I have access to or own the raw footage of the wedding?
• Will I have input in the editing process?
• Will I be able to suggest music? Are there any copyright restrictions on music?
• Will there be captions and subtitles?
• Will there be a DVD menu?
• How will I receive the finished product and how may copies can I expect?
• What is the turnaround time for receiving my edited video?
• How is the video backed up?
• What kind of equipment is used?
• What video format do you use? Widescreen, high definition etc.
• How do you ensure that we capture the best lighting and sound?
• What kind of insurance do you have?
• How many videographers will be present and how do you capture the different angles and perspectives?
• Are you familiar with my venue?
• What will you be wearing?
• How will you stay out of sight?
• Satisfaction guaranteed? What if you don’t like the final edit of the video?

Want a list of questions on the go? Download and print out our free wedding planning cheat-sheet for a comprehensive list of questions to ask your wedding vendors.