Things You'll Need:
- Yellow Pages
- Complete Video Recording Kits
- professional video sercives
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Step 1
Obtain glowing recommendations from friends, family and prospective videographers themselves.
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Step 2
Plan to interview three to five video professionals.
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Step 3
Ask to see a demo tape of their work to ascertain the quality of their shooting and editing skills.
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Step 4
Check their credentials. Who will be doing the actual taping? How many years have they worked in the business? Do they know details about lighting?
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Step 5
Inquire about their equipment ' look for a video pro who uses an S-VHS camera, a Beta SP camera or a single-chip Hi-8 camera that combines professional controls with lower light capabilities.
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Step 6
Discuss technical details that you would like added to the video, such as computer-generated animation. Ask to see examples of what the videographer has to offer.
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Step 7
Talk to the videographers about the types of shots you would like to include, such as reactions of guests and certain camera angles. Do they have the experience to catch all the right shots?
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Step 8
Ask yourself if you like the prospective videographer as a person. Remember, he or she will be interviewing your loved ones and shadowing you throughout the day.
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Step 9
Draw up a comprehensive contract that includes a description of the coverage location; the date and times of production; the names the specific individuals who will be doing the taping; a technical description of what will be done, such as multi-camera use and editing; how much you will pay and when; responsibility for the materials if lost or destroyed; the approximate finished length; and the final completion date.
Comments
doxaheritagevid said
on 3/8/2009 I take issue with the following: ". . . look for a video pro who uses an S-VHS camera, a Beta SP camera or a single-chip Hi-8 camera." This must be a very old article, or someone is terribly behind the times when it comes to today's videographers. DEFINITELY hire someone who uses 3-chip cameras - NOT 1-chip cams. You want at least 2 cameras, but 3 is preferable.Also:Surround sound is NOT something you want for a wedding. (Hearing the baby cry at the back of the church is not desirable), but you DO want to make sure your videographer uses professional equipment to mic the officiant, any soloists and musicians, and the groom.DEFINITELY view actual wedding clips, including a ceremony. Do you actually want to hear the soloist's song? The minister's words? Do you want a complete documentation of your ceremony?DEFINITELY consider talent, ability, style, experience, references, personali
Rushvideos said
on 10/10/2007 Ladies,
do yourself a favor, ask for a demo dvd first. This shows you their ability and how professional they are. If you want to go a step further ask for references, even good videographer needs to know how to act at your wedding. Last but not least, don't do any business with anyone who doesn't have a videography contract. This will protect you & them, because the day of your wedding is no time for misunderstanding.
GARY RUSH
Rush Videos
126 1st Ave. West
Alabaster, AL. 35007
(205) 621-3787
http://www.rushvideos.com
Anonymous said
on 8/26/2006 No matter how high tech or savvy a videographer might be, make sure to look at his or her portfolio for examples and hints of creativity. Good editing is a must, and you want someone who will capture your wedding or wedding reception with great vision and post-production work (editing).
I have studying video production and have learned that it takes creativity and improvisation on and off the camera, as well as skills and technology.
Anonymous said
on 8/21/2006 Not only should the videographer have good equipment (they should have a 3-chip camcorder or at least a 1-chip miniDV cam), but they should also have creativity. Also, they must be adept at editing video (non-linear or "computer" editing). If they only do in-camera editing, turn them down. Good edits and good footage go hand in hand. Finally, make sure you see their examples of past works.