Most Brides tell us that they didn't see, or can't remember, much of what happened on their wedding day. That's why they're thankful they'd asked Us to capture their wedding on video. Your husband-to-be just before the ceremony... The emotions on the faces of your family as you walk down the aisle... Your vows... Your toast and first dance... These are the moments you'll want to cherish and remember for as long as you live. Still photographers are able to capture very high resolution images that capture all the detail of a moment in time. But, your still photos won't capture the sounds, action and emotions of these brief flashes of time. Professionally produced video will - and, as the years go by, your wedding video will become a priceless living record for you and your children. Your wedding day will only happen once in your life. Since videography captures so many aspects of the wedding not captured by still photography, don't regret not having your precious memories preserved in a way that you can experience over and over. Couples and parents often tell us that the best money they spent was on their wedding video and that they are glad they made the decision to have one.

Make sure you speak to the person who will actually videotape your wedding. Many larger studios use free-lancers, and it is important to speak with the actual videographer ahead of time to make sure you get everything you want and to make sure you are comfortable with the videographer.

If you are having "multi-cameras" package, then find out if  that means a second videographer or just a camera on a tripod. Having a second videographer is more expensive than just a camera on a tripod (usually kept on wide angel). A second videographer can be well worth the extra cost due to the extra coverage you will get. Be sure to discuss camera placement and any videotaping restrictions ahead of time with your videographer.

"3-Chip Digital High Definition" is the most recent and highest resolution camera. HD cameras have 1080 lines of resolution.
 DV  cameras have max. 530 lines of resolution. Super VHS & Hi-8 cameras (which use analog tape) have 400 lines of resolution and VHS cameras have 230 lines of resolution. The higher the lines of resolution, the better picture quality you will get, but expect to pay more for a videographer who use 3-Chip HD cameras.

What kind of lighting do you use?

Some videographers use lights on their cameras, other do not. Some videographers will use a stand-alone soft-box light that gives of soft, even lighting. Background lighting at the reception hall will also help the photographer's pictures turn out better and flash or video light won't seem quite so harsh.

How many and what kind of microphones do you use?

Audio quality is just as important as video quality. At the ceremony, have the groom wear a wireless microphone and have another one on the podium for any readers or singers. At the reception, make sure everyone who is giving a toast or blessing is using a microphone; this includes the person who is introducing the bridal party. Be sure to discuss audio placement ahead of time with your videographer.

DVD is the latest trend in videography. (The most recent format is Blu-Ray Disc whit High Definition content - ask your videographer for information on it). DVD is much better quality than VHS tape because there is no loss of quality when going from a digital master tape to DVD. Some videographers can customize their DVDs with multiple chapter stops/scene selection and a customized case with your wedding picture on it. Your wedding video can last for generations without any deterioration when archived to DVD. Providing the finished production on DVD is a must-have!

Video technology is an ever-changing field (like the computer field) and professionals need to stay current. A videographer should be a member in local and national associations. Ask the videographer if he/she has ever been to any seminar or conventions. Any videographer belonging to WEVA (Wedding & Event Videography Association) is a big plus.

Be sure you are seeing samples of the actual videographer who will be videotaping your wedding. This is especially important when dealing with larger studios that may have several crews that they send out on the weekend. Some videographers will send out demo tapes and other will ask you to schedule an appointment to visit them. Some videographers have video clips (called streaming video) on their website where you can view their work while you are on the internet. If possible, try to meet with the videographer before you sign the contract.

This allows the videographer to talk about what else they offer and how they may differ from other videographers. Some examples are childhood/dating photo montage, wedding/honeymoon photo montage, bridal preparations, love story video (the two of you describing how you met, etc.), short-form video, highlight video, recap video, concept video, rehearsal coverage, big screen presentation, etc. This is also a good time to ask the videographer if they use special effects such as black & white, sephia-toned, slow-motion, animations, etc. There are many options to choose from!

What about the contract?

When you decide to hire the videographer, ask to see a copy of the contract. Ask how much of a deposit is required and when the remaining balance is due. Make sure everything you want in your wedding video is spelled out. As it gets closer to your wedding day, the videographer should request a "planing meeting" either over the phone or in person. Most videographers are hired six monts to one year in advance, so you need to make sure nothing has changed. Ask your videographer if they will attend your rehearsal - some videographers attend, some do not. It should also state when you will get your finished video.

If you are on a certain budget, let the videographer know that upfront. If you budget is flexible, wait to ask about pricing until you have explained to the videographer what you are looking for and after the videographer has talked about skill, equipment and service... A professional videographer with up-to-date digital HD cameras and non-linear editing can start arounf $2000. Some more seasoned professional offering many extras can charge upwards of $5000 and more. These prices are only a guideline as pricing can vary region to region. It is hard to put a price on talent unless you view their work. Remember, your videographer is creating a family heirloom.