When hiring a videographer for your wedding, you will want to make sure that they will live up to your expectations and fulfill your needs. Not all video professionals are made equal! Some have more experience, some have better equipment, and some have the kind of insight that will make your wedding video a true work of art. So, when interviewing several candidates, here are some questions you need to ask:
Are you available on the day? This is a fairly obvious one. If the videographer is not available or if they have any other events planned for that day, then they cannot possibly cater for your wedding too! Remember, your videographer does not start capturing your big day as you walk down the aisle. There’s so much more to it, and they should be there while the groom and bride are getting ready. If they are withing close proximity to one another, they might be able to move from one location to the other. However, if the distance is too great, you might need two cameramen to capture both wedding parties getting ready.
How do they plan the day? Every videographer has their own preferences and a kind of “play book”. Different professionals have different ways of doing things. Make sure that they are able and willing to work along with the photographer and any other vendors.
Are you going to be the one filming? If the person you are interviewing is not the actual videographer who will be attending your wedding, you should ask to meet with that person. Many companies have several professionals working for them which means that it’s important to make sure that you get along with the person responsible for your wedding.
Is this their full-time job? Full-time videographers might charge a bit more, but they also tend to have more experience than those who have regular jobs as well as weekend video jobs. The latter might prove less professional compared to the former due to better experience and equipment.
What about lighting? Some videographers require additional lighting. They might need to bring along some additional lighting, and this will mean that they should be allowed time to set up at the various locations.
What will the video look like in the end? Find out whether it will end up looking more like a music video or if you will hear your vows, speeches, and so on. Sometimes videographers like to capture messages from the guests to the happy couple.
Are there any additional costs? Some professionals only offer their services until a certain time whereas others are yours for the entire evening. Depending on the number of hours, you should ask your videographer about their rates. They might charge a flat rate or additional for staying late.
Are they able to accommodate all venues? Find out if they are limited in terms of travel distance. Explain where all the venues are (home, ceremony, photo session, and reception) and let them tell you whether or not they can indeed accommodate your wishes.
What is your refund or cancellation policy? You will most likely be required to put down a deposit in order to secure your booking. It’s worth asking about their policy on refunds/cancellations. Remember, life can take you by surprise, and sometimes circumstances call for weddings to be put on hold for a few weeks or months.
What format will the final video be presented in? Ask about HD or even 4K if possible. The higher the quality, the more enjoyable it will be to watch and share. It might cost a bit more, but the results are far superior.
What about duplicates? Ask about duplicate or digital copies so that you can make more yourself. This way, you can give everyone in your bridal party their very own copy to keep.
How will the video be backed up? Make sure that your videographer has a solid back up system! There’s nothing more disappointing than finding out the video files were lost or damaged.
Find expert Toronto videographers for your wedding at BeWed!
