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Here's some background information on Will before I begin my questions.
Will's interest in videography started when he first picked up a camera when he was 12. Videography was something he has always had a passion and a knack for. Will started doing TV Production when he was in high school and completed a degree in Radio/Television Production at the University of Central Florida. Will has been doing professional video for about 5 years and upscale amateur video for 8 years prior.
Now to the questions!
Will, What should couples be looking for when selecting a videographer?
When looking for a videographer, you want to obviously see some sort of demo footage to see what it looks like. Make sure their footage isn't too shaky or grainy. This could show that it isn't being shot well or with an acceptable camera for your special day. The other things to ask them will be what kind of camera they are shooting on and in what format. The great thing with the internet is you can check up on these things to see if they fit into the criteria that follows.
Is all videography/camcorder equipment the same?
All equipment isn't the same. When hiring a professional wedding videographer, you want to make sure they're shooting with a camera that has at least 3 CCDs. CCD or Charge-coupled devices is basically the chip in the camera that deals with colors. In normal consumer cameras you typically have one CCD which means one chip for all three colors (Red Blue Green). With prosumer or professional you have one chip per color, which will give you a better image.
Another question in quality will be what resolution they will be shooting in. Everyone has heard of HD being readily available but make sure if you want that crisp Bluray look that they are shooting in 1080p.
Some videography packages come with the option of the groom wearing a microphone. Why is that?
The reasoning behind having the groom wear a microphone is convenience. No bride wants to worry about running a cable through her dress or an odd black spot located somewhere around her neck or shoulder area, especially making itself visible on a white dress. The groom is generally going to wear a darker color which easily masks the microphone but it also allows for both parties audio i.e. vows to be picked up. You want those words you are promising to each other to be heard!
Some packages and videographers give their clients the option of having a raw and edited disc. What is the difference between the two?
A raw versus and edited disc: A raw disc will be the footage in its natural recorded form. There won't be any music added and their won't be any "cuts" which can be reminiscent of you old home videos due to length and pace. But in the case that you are doing that to save money, it does leave you the option to edit it yourself. The only issue is that you'll find it can become a long and arduous process and you might not want to deal with having to look at footage of yourself all day long.
An edited disc will contain the music you have provided in the list but also the artistry and skill to make the video flow and include the little moments that might not have been noticed as well as the important moments in a way that is entertaining and has feeling.
Will, is there anything else you would like to add before we wrap things up?
To many people they have the technique, the equipment, but they don't have the feeling behind it. One thing I pride myself on is that I really try to make my videos something that you are really going to enjoy. I'm a sucker for weddings and I want to make sure when I watch the video that it makes me giddy and smiley. Then I'll know that it's everything you'll want to remember.
Amy Van Epps Photography offers three Videography packages. We are able to work with you if you would like to create a custom package. Your videography package includes a song request & itinerary form. This helps Will to personalize your special day not only when filming, but editing. The itinerary form also helps to let Will know what aspects of your wedding are very important for you to be captured. It gives him ample time to set up his equipment to capture certain events.
When selecting a videographer, photographer, or any service for your wedding day I think it is important to sign a contract. If your videographer/photographer is not presenting you with a contract, I would be cautious. The contract exists to protect the client. Another thing to consider when signing a contract is the deposit. Some will require a non-refundable deposit to secure your date. This is not at all uncommon. However, the deposit can range from a dollar amount to a percentage of the total package.
If you have any other questions in regards to videography and photography services, please check out my website.
Amy Van Epps Photography
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