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Multiple award-winning Chicagoland videographer,
Kris Malandruccolo of Elegant Videos by Kris, gives
us her insight on choosing the best person to
videotape your wedding.
How long have you been in business?
A more experienced videographer should do a better
job for you. Using an established business
means that they are in business for the long-term
and probably won't shut down next week.
Are you the one who will be videotaping my
wedding?
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.
How many cameras do you use? Does that mean
a second videographer?
If you are having "two cameras", 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 angle). 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.
What type of cameras do you use?
"3-Chip Digital" is the most recent and highest
resolution camera. Digital cameras have 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 quality picture
you will get, but expect to pay more for a videographer
who uses 3-Chip Digital cameras.
What kind of lighting do you use?
Some videographers use lights on their cameras,
others do not. Some videographers will use
a stand-alone soft-box light that gives off
soft, even lighting. Ambient lighting at the
reception hall will also help the photographer's
pictures turn out better and the 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.
How do you edit the wedding video?
The latest and newest technology is non-linear
editing (on a computer). Ask how many hours
your videographer spends on editing since it
will make a difference in the final price.
It is not unusual for videographers to spend
between 30-40 plus hours on the computer editing
a wedding. Expect a price difference (and quality
difference) between those who edit non-linear
and those who don't.
Can I have my wedding on DVD?
DVD is the latest trend in videography. DVD is
a much better quality picture 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. I believe
providing the finished production on DVD is
a must-have!
How do you stay up-to-date in the video business? 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 seminars or conventions.
Any videographer belonging to WEVA (Wedding & Event
Videography Association) or ABC (Association
of Bridal Consultants) is a big plus.
How can I see samples of your work?
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 others will ask
you to schedule an appointment to visit them,
others 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.
What other services or special effects do
you offer?
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, sepia-toned,
slow-motion, animation, 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 "planning meeting" either
over the phone or in person. 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.
What will you charge to videotape my wedding
based on the coverage I am looking for?
If you are on a budget, let the videographer know that upfront. If your 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
equipment can start around $2000. Videographers with S-VHS cameras and less
editing will probably charge less. A 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.
Great video is not expensive, it's priceless!
Kris Malandruccolo
Elegant Videos by Kris
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