Wherever you are in the wedding planning process, you’re not alone! RiverStone knows what a big job you have ahead of you, and that’s why we want to remind you to lean on your wedding pros to help you get it done! They are your “Dream Team,” after all! But when it comes to assembling the ultimate team of vendors, you need to know WHO to hire and HOW to choose the professionals that are the best fit for you.
Documenting your wedding memories is a very important responsibility. One that falls on the shoulders of the photographers and videographers of the world. Last week we discussed the importance of hiring a professional wedding photographer, and today we’re discussing the videographers.
Why a Videographer?
You might still be wondering if you need both (photographer and videographer) to document your big day. We think the benefits of hiring a videographer are HUGE. The truth is, there are priceless things about your wedding that just can’t be captured in still photos. Things like voices, movements, and sincere facial expressions. Not only will you be able to relive your vow exchange, toasts, and first dance, but you will also be gifted a video that memorializes the voices and mannerisms of important family members and friends.
How to Choose your Vendors
As we previously stated, you can read online vendor reviews and ask for vendor referrals from your family and friends, but nothing beats a face-to-face interview when it comes to getting a good read on your wedding pros. Remember, you want to find out 3 main things from an interview:
- Are your styles compatible?
- Do all personalities mesh (yours, your fiancé’s, and the vendor’s)?
- What is the cost and availability of each vendor?
Here are a few questions to ask your videographers before you hire them…
Interview Questions for your Videographer:
- What’s your personal style?
Ask to see at least 20 mins of film (and multiple weddings); not just a highlight reel.
- How will the film be edited?
Will you get copies of the raw footage?
- How many weddings have you filmed?
How long have they been at this? Do they enjoy what they do and why? This will give you an idea of personality. You want to be comfortable in front of the camera, and answers to questions like this will help you gage how well you would work together.
- What’s included in your package(s)?
How many hours of shooting? What is their overtime fee? Do they provide a highlight video and raw footage? Will there be a second shooter?
If there is something specific you are hoping to capture, ask! But we recommend that you get any agreement in writing to avoid misunderstanding or disappointment on your wedding day.
- Have you worked with my photographer before?
If so, how well do they work together? If not, what are some strategies they will use to collaborate with the other individuals that are vying for the perfect angles, lighting, and shots?
- What kind of equipment do you use?
Microphones? Drones? Specialty lighting? Etc.
- What local vendors do you enjoy working with?
This is a unique way to get a recommendation from someone who knows the industry.
- Do you have any special moments that you recommend capturing on video?
First look? Toasts? Dances? Send-off? Ask your professionals for their opinions and recommendations! You might be surprised by the exciting new ideas you come up with together.
