How to Choose a Wedding Videographer?

There are many things to look for in a wedding videographer but the critical factor is experience. Wedding videos are a specialist product and you need someone who understands the genre inside and out.

Here is an important point: It is quite common for people starting out in the video production business to begin by making wedding videos because they mistakenly see weddings as an easy way to get started. To make matters worse, once videographers become competent they often realise they can make more money doing other work. The result is that in some areas wedding videography is disproportionately serviced by inexperienced people.

However this just means you need to be careful — there are still plenty of excellent videographers who do weddings for genuine reasons. The key is to find out about their experience.

Ask For Demos

You must ask to see a demonstration tape of the videographer’s previous work. There is no reason for them not to supply a demo — if they say they can’t for privacy or other reasons, cross them off your list.

Ideally you should see a range of work from them, but also make sure you watch an entire video from start to finish. You want to know that they can cover the whole event well, not just get a few nice shots here and there. Note that it is normal to have a few minor errors during a long video.

You might also like to ask for references from previous customers.

Communication Skills

The videographer should be able to get on with people and communicate well. Effective communication is important to make the day run smoothly, as well as making sure that everyone knows what to do and what to expect in relation to the video.

Videographers need to work with both guests and other professionals. If there is a dispute between them and the celebrant or photographer, the quality of the video could be affected.

Style

Different videographers have different styles and you should choose one which you are comfortable with. Common styles include:

• Fly-on-the-wall, reality-TV style
• Documentary, including interviews, voice-overs, etc
• Arty, cinematic styles

Price

Making good wedding videos is an expensive business and professionals need to charge a lot of money to turn a fair profit. You should regard cheap quotes with suspicion.

Hire friendly photographers and videographers.

There is a lot to capture on your wedding day in a short amount of time. Both your photographer and videographer will film the same key scenes: getting ready, first look, ceremony, speeches, reception, etc. Coordination is important, so try to hire a photographer and videographer who have worked together before. This way, they will likely have systems in place to make sure each captures those special moments. Ask your wedding planner for recommendations or have your photographer to suggest a videographer (or the other way around) for a seamless day-of experience.

Find a filmmaker who is comfortable with your venue type. 

Found a filmmaker you love but notice that all of their films take place outdoors and you’re getting married in a ballroom? Raise the question to the filmmaker before you hire them and make sure they’re comfortable shooting in your wedding setting. Request sample films to watch and show them an example of a film you

Cameras & Equipment

You might like to ask what type of video camera and other equipment will be used. If you are familiar with video equipment this information might be useful but it’s probably not necessary. An average camera in the hands of an expert is better than the most expensive camera operated by an average videographer.

It is definitely worth asking how many cameras will be used. A single camera is not really capable of capturing everything properly and safely. Two cameras will allow for much better shots and significantly reduce the chance of missing something important. A third camera, usually left on a static wide shot, provides even more safety and creative options.

Editing & Final Versions

Editing is very important. Good quality editing will make a huge difference. Ask these questions:

• How long will the final product be?
• Can you have more than one version, e.g. a full version and 15-minute highlights package?
• What titles, captions, etc will be included?
• Will the DVD have a title menu?
• Will music be added? If so, what is the copyright situation?

Note: If you are concerned about budget, one option is to ask for the wedding to be covered but not edited. Instead, you get the “raw” footage which isn’t very practical to watch, but you can save it and get the editing done later when you can afford it. The most important thing is to capture the day — editing can wait if necessary. Unfortunately many videographers don’t like showing their raw footage but it can’t hurt to ask.

Understand what’s included in your package. 

As wedding films have increased in popularity, so have the package options and the terminology. Understanding everything that comes in your package will help ensure you aren’t disappointed later. When your filmmaker sends you examples of what comes in your package (Instagram teaser, trailer, full edit, etc.) make sure to watch each example and be sure it’s the type and amount of coverage you want!

Video Format

Ask what format the video will be shot and supplied in. We recommend that you ask for wide-screen high-definition if at all possible. In the future, when everyone is used to watching high definition all the time, videos produced in standard definition will appear poor quality in comparison.

As well as the DVD or video tapes supplied for normal viewing, you should ask for a master-quality version in the original format (i.e. the edit master before it is compressed or encoded). You can use this version at a later date for further editing or transferring to new video formats. Note that this is not a normal request and the videographer might be surprised when you ask for it. Make sure you ask before the wedding day.

All formats die eventually and you will probably need to transfer your video to another format at least once during your life. Although you can convert video files from the DVD format, it is preferable to have a better quality file to work with.

Things you should know before booking a wedding videographer

Know What Coverage You Want

Think about the key moments you’ll want covered, as this will impact how many hours of coverage you’ll need to book. Do you want clips from while you’re getting ready, your ceremony, and that sparkler exit you’ve planned? Depending on your answers, you’ll need a videographer to arrive in the late morning or early afternoon, and stay through the end of the night. On the other hand, if you just want the ceremony and toasts, you can choose a shorter package that will cover just those highlights.

Think About Your Vendor Team

Ideally you will want to book a videographer who your planner and or photographer also love. This makes everything go much more smoothly on your wedding day as they are all accustomed to working together already.

Clearly Lay Out Expectations

An important decision early on would be whether the clients want the filmmaker to have a documentary approach or a cinematic one. Both have virtues, pitfalls, and to a certain degree they intersect, but the filmmaker has to approach the coverage differently, depending on the expectation.

Pay Attention To The Package Details

Be aware of their pricing and your budget. Ask if they have package deals and what those include. And most importantly, how long will they be there on the day of your wedding and what does overtime cost if you end up wanting them to stay longer.

How To Become a Professional Wedding Photographer

Whether you want to know how to become a professional commercial photographer or how to become a professional photographer in general, the quickest way to start making money with your camera may be wedding photography.

The goal behind this 14 tutorial was to create the most comprehensive resource on everything it takes to create compelling wedding images as well as the tools needed to start and run a successful wedding photography business. No matter if you are brand new to photography or if you are already shooting weddings professionally

Why Wedding Photography?

As we explain in the promo video above, wedding photography pretty much fell into both of our laps. I believe many photographers have the same wrongfully biased opinion about wedding photography as I did when I first picked up a camera. The idea of dealing with dramatic bridezillas, going hours without food or drink, and having to take cheesy photographs all day was not my idea of a good day at work.

The most interesting thing about wedding photography is that there is a market in every single city. I believe wedding photography offers an amazing opportunity for anyone interested in photography as a hobby or career; through wedding photography, you can become 100% self employed as a full time photographer!

goal with this tutorial isn’t to make everyone a millionaire or turn you into some sort of rockstar wedding photographer. I aren’t either of those things. What want to teach you is how you can take better photographs, start your own business, and hopefully shave off at least three years of trial and error during those initial startup years

TIPS WHEN PLANNING A WEDDING TIMELINE

LEAVE A CUSHION

The biggest mistake I see couples make is running their timeline to the minute. When Planning a wedding timeline leave a cushion. I consider weddings to be organized chaos. A day full of love, tears, and excitement – mix in a little alcohol and there you have it, organized chaos. Something always comes up and it will, I promise.

TRAVEL TIME

Make sure you plan for travel time. Not only for you but for your photographer and other venders that have to travel to multiple locations. While you can just walk out of the hotel, church or into your reception, it takes your photographer time to pack everything up, get to the car, drive to the next location and unpack the gear to be ready for the next shoot.

SUNSET TIME

When planning a wedding timeline remember every season has it challenges. Some weddings have to deal with the heat, cold, rainy season and humidity, but they all have one thing in common, sunset. The most flattering light of the day is what photographers refer to as “Golden Hour” which happens about an hour before sunset. So, when planning your ceremony, if you want to be shooting in that beautiful light, be familiar with sunset time. If you are having a winter wedding, remember sunset can happen as early as 4:30. So if you are ceremony is at 6pm in the winter it will be limited to inside photos after the ceremony.

DESIGNATE A PHOTO WRANGLER

This could be one of your best decisions and this person could save your timeline. Your photographer will not always know the faces of all the people on your formal shoot list but a family member or friend that knows them is priceless. As your photographer is shooting one group, the Wrangler can get the next group ready. This way you can shuffle through them quickly, organized and stay on schedule.

ESTABLISH A WEDDING WEBSITE

This one takes a little more work for you on the front end when planning a timeline, but will save your sanity by not have to answer the same phone call from all your family and friends. Here your guests can find all the information they need about your wedding day as well as nearby hotels, restaurants, and things to do when not at your wedding.

WHAT A FIRST TIME WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER NEEDS TO KNOW

The news that you are photographing your first wedding often leads to emotions ranging from excitement to apprehension, and in some cases, fear. Assuming you have experience with your equipment and have developed the necessary skills to take great photographs, the wedding event has a greater likelihood of being a successful one if you follow some key steps.

BEFORE THE WEDDING

Proper preparation before the event is the best way for a photographer to have a successful outcome. I spent several weeks before my first wedding visiting other photographers’ web sites. I read books on wedding photography, and I researched photography blogs and forums. It is amazing how much information is available for little or no charge. These tips and photographs can inspire you and get you thinking about what you want to accomplish and how you are going to make it happen.

It is important that you have a standard written agreement that is signed by the bride- and groom-to-be and the photographer. There is no excuse for not having this document in place. It should describe the deliverables and the fees associated with the service and products. It should also include a model release so you can use the photos for promotional purposes. It is highly recommended that you contact an attorney and draft a standard agreement that protects you.

At the time of signing the agreement, there are two other opportunities to enhance the process. First, get to know the bride and groom. Spend some time chatting so you will know their story and they will know you. When the wedding day comes, they should feel comfortable with you so their true personalities will shine. If possible, include a no cost or low cost engagement shoot so everyone can gain even more of a comfort level. It is a good opportunity to give them some posing tips that they can use on their wedding day

It is also imperative to know the schedule. When you are meeting with the bride and groom, go over the agenda for the time you are expected to be at the wedding. Get to know their expectations. Let them know when you expect them to devote time to photographs with you in charge. This is a good time to talk about a wedding coordinator. If they will designate a friend or family member that will help the you identify important family members during the wedding day, it can be a tremendous help.

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS FOR COUPLES

Introduction to wedding photography tips

Every time I meet with a couple for a conversation about their wedding photography I inevitably offer some suggestions that they could make during their preparations that will help me do my job more effectively. I have accumulated a wealth of experience over the years and enjoy sharing it with the couples that make time to discover my unique style of wedding photography. Several months ago, I realised that I am often repeating the same wedding photography tips from meeting to meeting and decided to formalise the suggestions in one central repository for easy reference and sharing. These wedding photography tips are by no means comprehensive, although that is my ultimate aim; they will be edited and improved upon as new ideas come to mind. Much like the wedding photography FAQ, you should consider this document a continuous work in progress.

The purpose of wedding photography tips for couples

The goal of this article is to help you help me deliver outstanding wedding photography by putting together an awesome, efficient, and beautiful wedding celebration.

As a documentary wedding photographer, I can only capture what I see unfolding before my eyes because my influence over the images is limited to angle, the field of view, focus, and timing. It is your duty to plan and design your wedding with the purpose of excellent images in mind, precisely because I do not rearrange trinkets, decorations, or furniture, or interrupt couples during touching moments with prompts to move here or stand over there. Despite that, I have no qualms about dispensing advice leading up to your wedding. The purpose of this article is not to make my job easier – in fact, I work harder when given more creative opportunities by thoughtful wedding planning – but to provide you with as much helpful information as possible so that you can help me deliver the best looking unposed photojournalistic wedding photography

Get your wedding photographer to capture you getting ready and preparing

Whenever I meet with couples whose fixed wedding photography budgets mean they have to decide between photographic coverage earlier in the day (preparations and getting ready) or later in the evening (once the dance party gets started), I always recommend they choose the former. There are many more touching and emotional moments happening at the beginning of the day than towards its conclusion. Once the dinner, speeches, and cake-cutting traditions are over, and the dancing (and drinking) has started, the utility of having a dedicated wedding photographer on site decreases dramatically. There are two main reasons for this. First, with a few rare exceptions, the schedule for this part of the night no longer has any earmarked events, traditions, or ceremonies to behold. The nighttime revelry rarely yields more than a handful or two of unique photographs, after which you quickly get diminishing returns.

Choose unique lodging

Couples that opt to have an overnight stay at a hotel on the eve of their wedding should consider upgrading their accommodations to lodgings with personality. Because conventional hotel rooms are designed to appeal to the greatest number of people, they strictly adhere to the same set of uninspiring interior design and layout tropes, and this bleeds into your photographs. Most couples understand the importance of selecting a unique venue for their reception, but often overlook the importance a distinctly beautiful location contributes to preparation photography.

Ultimate Guide to Wedding Photography

If you are interested in photography or even work in the photography business, then you have most probably stumbled across wedding photography already, since this genre is becoming more and more popular. I would say wedding photography is one of the most challenging fields in photography, because you literally have only one chance to get the shots that you want.

I have been photographing weddings for around 7 years now. Over the years, I have learned a lot – sometimes the hard way, through many mistakes. In this wedding photography tutorial, I’ll share with you some of my experiences, important advice and wedding photography tips to ensure that you’ll be well-prepared for the most important day in the life of the people you are going to photograph.

What is Wedding Photography?

So, let’s have a closer look at what your actual task is, if you are booked as a wedding photographer. Of course it’s about taking the best pictures possible of the whole day. This includes getting ready with the bride, the ceremony, a wedding shoot and the party.

While the wedding shoot is the only part of the wedding that you can actively control, the other parts are more like a reportage. Your job is to take pictures of what is happening in front of your lens, without interrupting anything. Nothing is worse than a photographer trying to get people to pose for the camera during a wedding. Always try to stay invisible and let people act naturally. Don’t make them feel watched. That’s how you’ll usually arrive at the best shots.

What Equipment do you Need to Photograph a Wedding?

There are no fixed rules for what camera gear you will need to bring to a wedding day but some parts of the equipment are obligatory, while others are more optional. First things first, let’s have a look at the most important things in your camera bag.

Wedding Photography Myths: Wedding Photographers and Brides, Oh My!

You might be getting married (congrats, by the way) and trying to decide whether or not to even hire a wedding photographer. You might be trying to decide now on which photography professional to choose for your wedding day. You might be a wedding photographer, trying to understand the delicate and confounding psyche of those who engage in wedding planning.

I don’t need/want a wedding photographer because:

Is it impossible to find a good free photographer? No. Is it likely? No. Is it a good idea? Almost never. But hey, it is your wedding day. You can chance it on the stranger who could very well be overly intrigued by the bridesmaid who has just a little bit too much to drink at the reception and starts to dance provocatively. That way, the bulk of your photos could be of her. Perfect, right? And free. In this situation, you can just point out to your kids, twenty years down the road, that the photographer did take these photos with really cutting edge technology, which is why you can see just so much detail of the lewd woman at your wedding with, how shall we say… ‘perky’ breasts. No, she isn’t the bride, but doesn’t she look like she is having fun?

Why would I get yourself a photographer? Everyone as well as their puppy contains a digicam (even mobile phones images are creeping up within the ‘megapixel’ race). The snapshots from visitors will suffice.

Indeed, it can be real to state that many of us now have a digicam on our body in any respect moments (on our telephone with the really the very least). In addition, at a marriage, lots of otherwise most company carry some sort of added digicam to memorialize the occasion (significantly issues that go mistaken, whenever they never like you; tears from the groom whenever they do). On the other hand, arduous double blind scientific studies have been completed about the information stream to which we are referring, plus they all clearly show one detail. These shots have got a ninety nine.9982% chance of sucking. Seriously badly. There could be a single fantastic image with the bunch, of a pet at the conclusion of the aisle that intended a great deal. It’s going to be perfectly uncovered, focused, and display screen Sparky by using a wonderful stance applying great composition.

Marriage ceremony pictures is simply too high priced – why would I guidance an sector of so-called ‘professionals’ who definitely only perform a few hrs every week. I do not know whether being indignant or jealous.

You’ll be able to be offended if you would like. You can even be jealous, considering that now we have a task that (with any luck ,) we really like, and acquire wonderful delight in. If you believe we do the job a few several hours for just a one wedding day, you might be fooling you. Those tend to be the several hours which you see us with the wedding ceremony; suffice it to state, a lot of hours of preparing went in to that exact marriage ceremony, plenty of several hours will progress on the top of marriage ceremony day in post-production. When done appropriately, the do the job is extensive, enjoyable, and pays good.

I do need/want a wedding photographer, nevertheless the selection process need to be minimal:

I am going to use my photographer right after the many other preparing is done. I’ll select the bouquets, the location, the dj or band, the bridesmaid attire, the honeymoon hotel, and a lot more. Then I will think pictures.

Of course you’ll wait around until the last number of months to hire a photographer. Why would you wish a wedding experienced similar to a terrific photographer to assist you with wise referrals for many of the other products and services you will end up searching for? Though a very good photographer can have labored using a magnificent cake business enterprise in former weddings and gladly advise that you verify them out, you can expend forty-seven hours pouring more than brochures featuring batman shaped carrot cakes (a topic which can unquestionably to acquire off when new brides actually end and give it some thought). Truly, although, contemplate this – waiting will only restrict your selections. Photographers deal for unique dates. When your arch enemy plans her marriage around the same day when you (out of spite), she is going to also make an effort to wrap up the products and services of the greatest photographer in town. Beat her to that photographer for several years of bragging legal rights.

I don’t want recommendations – why would I care what some other pair states about this photographer? I really like her web page; it’s shiny, joyful, and new. It would make me smile on the inside.

Classy web sites abound among the marriage photographers, for every one of the obvious reasons. That you are considering having to pay them money for an art, hence the patterns they use for advertising and knowledge delivery, then, really should be equally creative. Having said that, have a rapid look at the photographers within your place, and I am going to wager which you uncover 1 with an remarkable internet site, with extraordinary motion and animated vines developing from the observe and fast chat functionality with on need videos… as well as other neat technological factors I do not even understand about. Nevertheless, it’s possible you’ll also find that this particular photographer has satisfactory pictures, and nothing at all far more. Then, I hope, you can notice that you simply are worthy of more than suitable pictures from a internet marketing expert who dabbles in images.

I have bought a photographer, and here is exactly what will transpire:

I would like ONLY [formal or candid] pictures. Any shots besides [formal or candid] are silly, make me cry, and provides me abdomen discomfort.

Use antacid and just cease it presently! No, genuinely. Just about every marriage photography skilled methods the craft in a very way that utilizes the benefit of a number of ‘styles’ of wedding images. Some photographers emphasize a single in excess of the other – mostly seriously posed manner pictures, say, with only a few candid photographs with the ceremony and reception. However, know that the two models, and so both of those sets of visuals, will notify the story with the working day, whilst the absence of 1 of those sets would generate a set that may not as prosperous or descriptive.

When you find your photographer(s), you can have a look at the gathering of photographs that he / she chooses to exhibit prominently, and these will speak volumes in regards to the variety of photography that’s most crucial to that individual. On the other hand, it is actually perfectly reasonable to hope (dare I say, presume) a specific amount of wide variety from the final selection of photos.

Wedding Photography is Easy

Snapping a picture is easy. Taking a high-quality photo that perfectly captures the atmosphere of the wedding, in which everyone looks their best and no one is making funny faces at the wrong moment? That’s a lot harder. Wedding photography can also be extremely stressful. While digital photography has made it easier, since we can see a preview of the images before we move on, that doesn’t guarantee a perfect image every time—and there’s no going back to recapture those amazing, important moments. Hiring a professional wedding photographer is often well worth your while!

Group Shots Won’t Take That Long

When you imagine wedding pictures, you may imagine those formal, posed shots with the entire wedding party…and his whole family…and her whole family. Those pictures are great (though they’re rarely featured anywhere but in a wedding album), but they’re also very, very time-consuming. If you’re planning to get those posed photos on your big day, it definitely needs to be part of the schedule—and you need to write in plenty of time for it. Often, taking care of those posed pictures before the wedding is a better way to be sure that it doesn’t cut into your reception time. Remember, you want to enjoy you time with them, not just take pictures with them!

Reasons Why A Pre-Wedding Photoshoot Should Be Essential

Is a pre-wedding photoshoot necessary? Well, that’s hard to say, but the short answer is, yes. And the long answer is, well, yes as well! So what is a pre-wedding photoshoot? The best way to think of it is as a trial run for your wedding photographer. Consider booking your hair, makeup, dress, cake. What do they all have in common? You get to ‘try before you buy’. Don’t get me wrong, this usually comes at a cost, but at least you can be confident in your decision come the big day. Wedding photography is no different, if anything, it should be more carefully thought about. Remember, you only get one chance at your wedding. You want to make sure the person tasked with capturing the big day is going to get it right.

A pre-wedding photoshoot is something that can be used to ensure you picked the right photographer, you get along with them and they get along with you. Some wedding photographers will have this built into all their packages, some may offer it as an add on for you to choose if you want to do it.

Pre-wedding photoshoots help to ease feelings of awkwardness

“But I am so awkward in photos, I always look bad. I hate getting my photo taken.” This is easily the most common thing I hear from couples during my first consultation. What if I told you I had the solution? The solution that was going to make you look stunning in your wedding photos? Well I don’t, sorry, but what I do have is pretty damn good. Pre-wedding photoshoots!

Pre-wedding photo shoots give you a chance to work with your photographer, and your photographer a chance to work with you. This is going to allow you to feel comfortable with the photographer pointing a camera at you, and gives an idea of how they operate, and what to expect from them on your wedding day. Furthermore, it gives your photographer a chance to work out how to pull the best out of you as a couple. They will notice how you react to the camera, and how to get you to feel natural and comfortable with each other.

Pre-wedding photoshoots help to get to know your photographer, and help them get to know you

Probably the most important reason for a pre-wedding photoshoot is simply…weddings are a huge day! The biggest day of your life! Like mentioned in previous articles, it is important to really get along with your photographer. What better way to work this out than shooting with them before the big day? Take a chance to get to know each other. For example, on my pre-wedding photo shoots I like to take some food and maybe some drinks, and take the time to chat and really get to know my couple on a more personal level. Find some common ground and before you know it you end up feeling like good friends. Do not overlook the importance of feeling this comfortable with your photographer, it can make or break your wedding, and the engagement session is the place to start working on this!

Pre-wedding photoshoots give you beautiful images to use on stationary

This one almost goes without saying. How many weddings have you attended where the couple are displaying professional images of themselves? How many invitations have you received with a professional photo on it? The list goes on forever about how the images that are taken prior to the wedding get used, but you get the point. Instead of paying a graphic designer to design all your stationary, why not use beautiful images of yourself? After all, that is what people are coming to your wedding to see!

I know it isn’t part of stationary, but think about it, there are a lot of things you can do with these images. I’m not going to hold punches here, and if my family are reading this, I am sorry…but it gives you Christmas and birthday gifts for family members for at least 2 years (by which point you will have wedding photos, so boom, another 2 years of gifts)! Stuck for a gift idea for mum or dad? Why not a beautiful framed shot of you and your fiance on a stunning clifftop? I guarantee you, this will please them.

They capture a very important time in your lives.

Let’s not joke about it yeah? Your wedding day is a massive one. Honestly, one of the biggest in your life. Why wouldn’t you put in 110% effort in order to make it perfect? Are we on the same page? Good! But the wedding is what, 10-14 hours? Maybe a bit more, maybe a bit less? So why so much emphasis on half a day, and such neglect for the preceding 12-18 months?

Your engagement is going to encapsulate about 12 months of your life, on average. That is a long time. In fact, that is 365 times longer than 1 day (maths was my best subject at school, just saying…). So why do people so often overlook capturing this time period in their lives, only to focus on the big finale? Big mistake! Focus on both!

Here Is Your Guide for How to Hire a Wedding Photographer

For a lot of people, figuring out how to hire a wedding photographer is usually done fairly early in the planning process. This is probably for a few reasons. It feels like one of the bigger wedding planning tasks (because it is, if you’re hiring a photographer), and if you’re planning to shoot engagement photos or additional portrait sessions, you want to go ahead and plan those out. Plus, some wedding photographers book out well in advance (and there are only so many weekends during wedding season), which means locking in the photographer of your choice is all about timing. Or is it? Yes, obviously, timing is mega important… but when it comes to your photographer, there are other things you need to consider early in the planning process.

KNOW WHAT STYLE YOU LIKE

I don’t mean that you need a perfectly curated Pinterest-friendly Instagram feed before you start looking for your wedding photographer, but I do mean that you should have some kind of visual idea of what you want your photos to look like. Are you into darker, moodier photography? Cool, then don’t go with someone who skews toward overexposure. Do you want someone who shoots with film? Great, make sure you include that in your search terms. Are you ultra into an abundance of natural light? Sub-question: Will your venue actually be filled with natural light? Awesome, find those people. If you’re feeling totally lost, ask people you know who have amazing wedding photos who they hired, and go from there.

KNOW YOUR VENUE

Remember what I just said about natural light? Okay, good. I am personally a huge fan of natural light and venues that have tons of it, and a lot of my work reflects that. That’s because I intentionally share photos that I think best showcase what I do—and that’s what a lot of photographers do. So if you’re getting married in a dimly lit room and you hired someone who usually shoots outside in fields, just know that your photographer can’t transport all that light into a room that doesn’t have it. Sure, your photographer can and should be able to work with any venue, but if you’re choosing a photographer because of what that person excels at, it’s helpful if your wedding fits the bill.

Review Albums With a Critical Eye

When reviewing a photographer’s album, look for the key moments you want captured: Did they get photos of both the bride and the groom when they locked eyes for the first time? Also look for crispness of images, thoughtful compositions (does a shot look good the way it was framed, or is there too much clutter in the frame?) and good lighting (beware of washed-out pictures where small details are blurred—unless that’s the style you’re after). It’s also very important that you detect sensitivity in

capturing people’s emotions; make sure the photographer’s subjects look relaxed, not like deer caught in headlights. While you two are important, of course, you want to see smiling shots of your friends too.

Ask About Your Rights

Most contracts stipulate that the photographer owns the rights to all photos taken at the wedding, even the ones of you. In other words, the photographer can use them promotionally (on their website or blog, submit them for publication and even place them in ads). That also means you can’t just post the digital proofs they send you—most photographers have a policy that you can only share watermarked images or images with their credit on them. Also, unless you negotiate otherwise, if you want to print the images yourselves or order an album from another source, you’ll have to buy the rights to the images.

Prep Together for the Day-Of

Remember that your photographer is the pro, so—while it’s helpful—you shouldn’t spend too much time putting together a detailed shot list for them. Instead, pass along your day-of timeline, give them an idea of what images you’d like captured (like a shot with each of your bridesmaids in addition to wedding party portraits) and let them do their thing. This is also the perfect moment to give them a heads up on any familial or friendship intricacies they should be aware of, like divorced parents, a grandmother that needs to remain sitting for portraits or a groomsman and bridesmaid that don’t get along (hey, it happens!). If you’re hoping to get your wedding day published online or in a magazine down the road, be sure to relay that to your photographer. This way, they’ll put extra emphasis on snapping shots of all your amazing details and will likely come armed with gorgeous styling accessories, like ribbons, linens and more, with the goal of helping your wedding aesthetic truly stand out.

Wedding Photography Package For Your Clients

Ever wonder how to start making a wedding photography package? You may know an exact amount that you can charge from your clients. However, a breakdown of price will give a convincing idea to the couple for what they are paying to you.

Here’s a list of the things you need to include in your wedding photography package:

1. Number of Events to be Photographed

First thing that you need to discuss with your client is the number of events that need to be covered. You can divide it into number of days too.

Few of the wedding ceremonies last long and the client ask you to cover all the events. It is recommended to discuss the events in details before signing up the contract.

2. Number of Photographers Shooting the Wedding

Most of the wedding photographers have second shooters to cover the details of the all events. It is also a value added service to charge a good price from the client for delivering more in less time.

The wedding photography contract should include number of additional photographers that are assisting you in the wedding shoot. You can add or remove the second shooters on the basis of need of your client.

3. Number of Hours for the Shoot

For each event that you signed to shoot, you should talk about the number of hours. Most of the clients would expect you to be available for all day. However, you should charge on hourly basis to restrict the misuse of your services.

4. Number of Prints and Soft Copies to be Delivered

Printed photos and soft copies of the wedding ceremony are need to be decided in the photography package. You should talk with your client about the number of prints to be delivered. You can include these details in the contract, so there is no miscommunication and the process becomes easy for both.

5. Traveling and Accommodation for Destination Wedding

Those wedding ceremonies that needs traveling are far more exciting. Your client must pay all your expenses. It is recommended to discuss mutually about the flights and accommodation ahead of time.

You should also talk about the meals and other basics. This cost should be included in the wedding contract.

Thing to Consider

Before you walk down the aisle, run down the following list of questions, recommends when debating hiring a planner:

• Do I have a really stressful job that takes up a lot of my time?
• Am I planning a wedding out of town?
• Do I want to have a great party but feel overwhelmed by the details?
• Do we have a lot of family drama?

You should be booking your Photographer/Videographer at least 9 months before your wedding!

By this time, you’ll have already picked your venue, a theme/color scheme, an idea of a guest list, and a basic timeline of your wedding day. This is all useful to your Photographer because…

• Once the venue(s) is set your Photographer can look up the locations to see where they can get the best photos of you, your significant other & loved ones
• You will know who you will really want photos with, out of town family or friends, etc.  (Add to your shot list!)
• The general timeline is useful so whether you are having a mix of traditions or unique wedding events, you can be sure your Photographer won’t miss a thing and capture all of your special moments

How to Choose a Wedding Videographer: The Essential Guide

What Does Wedding Videography Involve?

Forget the dreary, out of focus and wobbly videos you may have seen in the past, the new breed of wedding videographers are producing high quality and imaginative wedding day films.

Is it Expensive?

There are of course many different wedding videography companies to choose from and they all vary in cost, quality and style.

Which Style of Wedding Videography is Right for Me?

The style of your wedding and the overall atmosphere of the day should be conveyed clearly in your wedding video –a good videographer will know how to capture this. If you prefer your video to be raw and not too edited, then a traditional style of wedding videography is right for you.

How to Get The Best Wedding Video Ever

Hire the Person Whose Style Most Closely Matches Yours

Just like photographers, videographers take different approaches to their craft. Documentary-style videos present the events chronologically, without many special effects, while a cinematic film is generally more dramatic, using interesting angles for a Hollywood-movie feel (these are just two options of many). “You don’t want to select a cinematographer with one style and send them clips from another videographer with a totally different style. Just hire the one you like!” says Taryn Pollock, owner of Serendipity Cinematography based in Arizona and California.

Take Finding a Videographer As Seriously As You Do Your Photographer

Unfortunately, hiring a videographer seems to get pushed back somewhere between welcome bags and favors—and it’s just too important for that C-list slot on your long list of to dos. “By that time, there will only be a handful of studios left to choose from, and most likely, you won’t be able to hire your first choice,” says Julie Hill, owner and creative director at Elysium Productions, an international videography firm.

Subscribe to Video Websites

There are plenty of places to find wedding videographers, but Vimeo and Love Stories TV are the preferred spot for most A-list picks to post their recent work. Aside from the big videography communities, you can easily search by location and even wedding venue to find clips from your reception venue and get ideas.

Embrace the Professional Referral Factor

People like your photographer and wedding planner have worked with videographers in the past and will be able to suggest filmmakers they’ve liked or that they’ve heard good things about through previous clients.

Tips for Choosing Your Wedding Videographer

Be sure that you jive with the videographer

When you bring a videographer on, you’re going to have to tango with them from the moment you sign the contract until months after your wedding during their editing process. You’re going to want to make sure that before you sign anything, you’re tangoing to the same beat.

Be sure you like the way their previous films tell stories

A bride once told me “There has yet to be a wedding video you’ve created that has not made me cry.” Whenever I get feedback like that, it feels awesome because it tells me I am doing my job. I am storytelling.

Make sure they have assistants to help split the tasks at your big day

I used to shoot weddings solo and I would not recommend it to my worst enemy. There is just too much gear, too many balls in the air, too little time, and too many places to be at once for it to go smoothly. Choose someone who will send at least two people out on your wedding day.

Don’t be afraid to budget for a videographer- quality often depends upon what you pay

A lot of brides still consider video a luxury item to add to their wedding if budget allows. I would say that with that mind set, you may not want to get a video at all because you could end up paying for something you don’t love.

HOW TO CHOOSE A WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER

Budget

Budget is a total arse. But it’s an important thing to keep in mind when choosing a videographer because costs can range from as little as £200 – £5000 (maybe more) however there are some huge differences to be considered.

Style

Do you want a cinematic dream-like film which makes your day appear as magically as it felt? Or do you want to belly laugh at a sneaky shot of Uncle Bob picking his nose in the corner of the room? Or do you want both? Do you want to be taken away from your guests so your videographer can direct some beautiful shots of you smooching, whispering I love you’s, having a laugh together and making you look like the stars of romantic movie or are you happy for your videographer to hide in the shadows, capturing the more natural moments as they happen so you can chill with your guests longer? Do you want speeches running over the top of your film or do you want music to be the main audio? Different videographers have different styles of delivering a wedding video, they are different artists, some are Banksy, some are Da Vinci! What style do you like? Do your research, find the videos you’re most drawn to and then find the videographers that can deliver that within your budget. Perhaps consider using key words in your searches “Cinematic Wedding Videographer” “Fun Wedding Videographer” “Naturalistic Wedding Videographer” “Alternative Wedding Videographer” “Eco-Friendly Wedding Videographer” etc etc

Kit

There’s two parts to this; quality of kit, what are they using, what have they achieved with that kit. But perhaps more importantly, how much kit is there? Do you want lights beaming your way during speeches with 8 cameras dotted around the room so every angle/reaction is covered or would you prefer something more low key, less invasive and instead compromise on less angles? It’s not a top consideration but it’s certainly worth noting.

How to Choose a Wedding Videographer

COST OF A WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER

Wedding videography packages usually range from $1K to more than $15K. Most wedding videographers charge a rate based on the amount of time they render their professional services. Others out there offer a preset package which also includes other pieces such as an extra shooter or a same-day edit. Even if you are just planning to buy a standard package, it is very important that you run through the other offers and what’s included. Some wedding videographers will also base their pricing on the number of guests and venue of the place.

STYLE

The styles of wedding videographers can vary. With this being said, it is quite tricky to find someone who can meet your expectations. Wedding videographers, just like the photographers, take different approaches and style to their craft. Documentary style wedding videos present the events in a chronological manner minus the special effects. They tend to lean on interviews of the guests and montages overlaid with snippets of conversation and catchy quotes.

EXPERIENCE

Although expert wedding videographers are preferred, up-and-coming, or new artists in the wedding videography industry will not do you any harm. If they have the equipment and you’ve identified you’re preferred style of wedding videography, then it’s matter of finding the right match!

EQUIPMENT

In order to create a cinematic wedding video, it’s crucial that you’re wedding videographer has the right tools. A wedding videographer without a high-end camera is like Leonardo Da Vinci without a paintbrush. They must have the right sound equipment, the lights and cameras that can handle low light situations (such as inside an old cathedral).