You know exactly Why You Need A Wedding Videographer, you did your research or got recommendations from your photographer and have set up a consultation with 2-3 of your favorite videographers. You should already have info like if they are available for your wedding date and the wedding videographers average cost package. 8 months before the big day is when to book a wedding videographer.
You will cherish your wedding video for the rest of your life. You want to make sure you ask the right questions so you can pick the right wedding videographer for you and your wedding! Know that wedding videographers in Indianapolis operate differently and this blog is to act more as a guide to help you make the right decision personally.
Here are the 16 Questions to Ask a Wedding Videographer.
PS download these questions at the bottom of the page to print out and take with you to your meeting.
1: How long have you been in the wedding industry?
This is a great starter. They are the professional, let them guide the conversation. This lets them talk a bit about what they do and will hopefully bring up specific questions to ask.
2: How would you describe your shooting style?
There are several different style of wedding videography and knowing which you like will help you narrow down the right videographer. The main styles of wedding videography are Cinematic and Documentary. Cinematic wedding videography is typically shorter clips that are used to tell a strong story. Documentary is longer shots that focus less on creativity and more on the editing to piece things together.
3: Have you shot at my ceremony location before?
If they have not, it is not a deal breaker but if they have they can clue you into any rules or regulations the venue might have. Some venues will not let the photographer/videographer get closer than the last aisle so guests are not disturbed. Knowing that will be helpful.
4: How many cameras do you use for the ceremony?
There should be a minimum of 3, 4 is better. It will give them options when editing to maximize the moment and emotion. The additional cameras typically stay on tripods.
5: How many shooters will be at the wedding?
With wedding videography having a second videographer is ideal so there are options to cut away to when editing. A photographer can easily shoot a wedding on their own because of the nature of photography being still.
6: Will you be using a Drone? Do you have a drone operators license? Do you have liability insurance?
Drone videography can really up the production and quality of your wedding video. Ask to confirm they are registered to fly a drone commercially with the FAA to avoid getting the law involved in your wedding day. Also ask how much liability insurance they have as drone accidents can happen and when you have a lot of guests at your wedding you want to make sure they will be covered.
7: What parts of the wedding do you shoot?
This questions may sound obvious but some videographers don’t film the portrait session with your photographer instead they film the cocktail hour with your guests. It’s an artistic preference. Again no right or wrong answer here, just make sure you are clear on what they will be shooting.
8: How do you capture audio through the day? Wireless mic, on camera mics?
Wireless mics will give the clearest audio but require adjusting constantly and the receiver is the size of a deck of cards that you may have to find difficult to keep on you without pockets.
9: What kind of lighting do you use during the reception? Is it intrusive?
Reception is typically dark which can make it difficult to record video in. Videographers typically bring lights to mount on their camera but bright lights can be distracting when dancing. Ask how intrusive the lights are or if they can be dimmed.
10: How do you handle music for the film?
Music is every videographers headache. You can't use popular songs without licensing them which can be upwards of $100/song. There are free licensing possibilities but the music is typically limited. Try to get an idea of what the videographer with do to add music.
11: What creative input for you want from us and what do you prefer to have final say on?
Film is an artistic expression but it is also a product being made for you. I can say that typically wedding videographers know what they are doing and will do a good job at but you may have a specific request or style you want something done in. Ask the videographer for how they handle this.
12: Can we make changes to the final film once we see it?
You may have invited uncle joe just as a formality and are not a fan of the dance floor feature he got in your final edit. Ask your videographer it is possible to make changes in the final film for this reason. A simple swap like this should not be a big issue.
13: What will be delivered to me after the wedding?
Get clear on what you will receive. Will it be a digital download, will you receive a USB thumb drive, or even a DVD? Videographers are all across the board here so if you want something specific, ask.
14: Is the video watermarked?
The wedding video you receive to keep and hold onto should not be watermarked. If they post the video online it should not be a problem if they do watermark it. The watermark protects them against theft and helps advertise their business.
15: Are there any additional costs we may encounter?
You may encounter additional fees for travel over a certain distance, excessive editing costs at your request, or rentals at the videographer would have to make also at your request. Like if the videographer did not own a drone and you insisted you wanted a drone shot that he would have to rent a drone for. This is standard.
16: When will the wedding be delivered?
Get it written in the contract. Protect yourself!
Ask to look at a sample contract and its cancellation policy.
I know my idea of a fun weekend does not include looking over legal documents but your wedding is a big event and you want to make sure you are covered. Payment, delivery date, and cancellation policy. You want to know what would happen if a natural disaster or a death in the family would cause you to postpone or call off the wedding date.
I hope this information helped you on your hunt for the best videography option for your wedding day. These things can feel overwhelming at times but a little bit of preparation will ensure you make the right decision and that your wedding day is everything you have dreamed it to be!
Click Here and Download the List of Questions to print out and bring to your next meeting!
See More: Complete Wedding Planning Guide!
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