Lights, camera, videotape
Amanda Gardner
Your wedding is the performance of a lifetime. Whether you’re opting to make a video or a DVD of your big day, set the stage right by knowing the role and responsibilities of a professional wedding videographer. Check out the Q&A below based on insider tips from Steve Wernick, spokesman for Wedding and Event Videographers Association International (WEVA).
Q: How do I find the right videogrpaher for my wedding?
A: Referrals are a great way to start, but focus on professionals who specialize in weddings, advises Wernick. “The demands of a wedding are unique. There's no do-over. You have to get it right the first time,” he says. Once you've honed in on a few candidates, ask to see sample videos done by the person who’s actually going to film your wedding.
Q: How important is the videographer’s personality?
A: Like choosing your mate, personality matters. You’ll want to meet the videographer before signing any contracts. He or she will be working closely with you on what is likely to be a stressful day. “If the bride melts down, you want a videographer who isn't going to melt along with her,” Wernick says. You also want someone who will understand and respect family politics. Parents who haven't spoken in 10 years should not be forced together simply for the sake of a good shot.
Q: Must the videographer bring a lot of cumbersome lighting and sound equipment which can interfere with the mood I'm trying to create?
A: Not necessarily. “Cameras today are very sensitive and require little in the way of additional lighting,” Wernick says. As for equipment, most videographers use unobtrusive, wireless microphones.
Q: What technical questions are smart to ask?
A: A few to consider: What type of camera will the videographer use? Will extra lighting be needed? How many microphones will be involved? (When it comes to mikes, more is usually better, albeit more expensive.) Is the videographer planning to come solo or with a crew worthy of Martin Scorsese? These details will affect the quality of the final product as well as the price. Finally, ask the person in charge of the ceremony and reception if there are restrictions on camera placement or other equipment.
Q: What are some “standard” options for the content of the video?
A: Your final tape can be edited or unedited, which is roughly the difference between what you see in the theater and a home movie. An edited tape costs more but enables you to see the story unfold - a beginning, middle and end. The unedited version is a series of disjointed camera takes.
Q: Any tips on guest participation?
A: If you’re asking guests to contribute personal messages, make sure you’re explicit about the directions — otherwise you may end up with every guest at the reception saying words no more meaningful than “Good luck” and “Congratulations.” Ask for variety. “Put together an ‘A’ list of people who get first billing - parents, grandparents, and the bridal party,” Wernick advises. “This can be done in a very tasteful manner as opposed to ambush journalism.”
Q: What are some different creative options for the video?
A: Nowadays, you have dozens, if not hundreds, of different options — including slow motion, photo montage, fade-outs — giving the video the feel of an oil painting. You could opt for something personal such as a “Love Story” video, which tells the story of your romance in the style of a music video. Or go for an interview style or even a combination. The bride and groom’s stories can be interspersed with friends and family who can tell great anecdotes. Record this before the wedding, then play it at the reception. If the videographer has enough time, he can also load the footage from the ceremony into an editing system, edit it, then play back important moments at the reception.
Q: How much should I expect to pay?
A: Prices can vary enormously in various parts of the country, from $1500 to upwards of $10,000. In her book, The Elegant Wedding and the Budget-Savvy Bride, Deborah McCoy recommends budgeting as much for video- graphy as for photography. Ultimately though the decision - like the budget - is yours.
Quick questions to ask the pro:
1. What’s your style - documentary or highlights?
2. How many weddings have you done before? Can I see sample tapes?
3. Have you ever worked with my photographer? How will you coordinate your responsibilities?
4. Have you ever filmed at my ceremony or reception location before?
5. Are you scheduled for other events on the day of my wedding?
6. Who will actually be filming my wedding - you or one of your associates?
7. What kind of equipment do you use? How many cameras?
8. Do you offer packages? Can I see a price list?
9. Will you be adding music to the final product? Can I choose the music?
10. Can I add video footage from my childhood or honeymoon to the tape?
Amanda Gardner is a freelance writer living in Hoboken, New Jersey.