what questions should I be asking the videographer? *NM*

what questions should I be asking the videographer? *NM*

Here are you go.....

1) What type of lighting do you use? Most guests do not like those big spotlights. It is distracting and makes people a bit uncomfortable.

2)Do you have backup equipment with you? If not, don't hire them.

3)Sound. Ask them to put in a real tape, not a demo. Listen to the sound quality, not just of the music track but of people speaking. Listen to the Vows. Can you hear the bride and groom clearly. Some video companies put a small mic on the groom, others don't. One person told me that they can hook into the Church sound system. I have no idea if my Church will even allow that or what the equipment is so how do I know that can work? If you cannot hear the Vows why bother paying for a video?
And if they will only play the demo tape, don't hire them. That is like a photographer only showing you a few select photos, and not a complete album.

4) Can you get a DVD copy and what is the cost? I had one company tell me that he didn't want to quote a price because the DVD prices are going down. That is so stupid. I need to know what it will probably cost me, and have it in writing. If the price goes down, then fine, that will be great. But how can I decide without any information?

5) Where is the footage edited and by whom? Some people send it out and do not have much to do with the final edit. That is not a good thing. What if you need something re-cut or you hate one of the songs, they would charge you. Also, that means that the final edit is not controlled by who shot the footage.

6)Is this there full-time job or a weekend side job? I only wanted a full-time videographer, not a weekend novice. I only have one chance at getting this footage.

7) What is included and what is the cost? What are the extra costs? How much time does that include? Will the videographer go with you while you are taking formal photos after the ceremony, or will he come early if you are taking photos before the ceremony? Does he/she stay till the end of the reception? Is the person you are meeting right now, the same person who will be at your wedding? If not, when can you meet that person and you need to see some of his/her specific footage.


I booked Wild Rose for my wedding. I meet with 6-7 video people before picking them. I hope this all helps.

Thanks Michele31

This is very helpful. I knew about the light item, I hate it myself.
If you don't mind me asking what did you get with your package at price rose. This is another item I am not sure of-packages. They are too confusing for me to figure out.

CW0904

Wild Rose video starts about $1400ish. I am not sure what there new prices.I think DVD packages are around $2000. They were average priced. I saw some cheaper, and some more expensive but I really thought Wild Rose was the best.
Let me know how you are making out.

Wild Roses

I think I am underestimating all the vendors I need! This is not good. Is anyone else having the same problem? I only budgeted $1000 for video. Is that physically possible?

CW0904

It is not impossible but I didn't see any except 1, Steven Taub (I can find his number if you want). I will say his stuff was okay, but not great and the sound was not good. He was $900. Who is your photographer? I know that VIP's video is also around $1000.
I know how you feel. Almost all but my flowers came in a bit over what I thought.

michele31 and others

That is the problem right now. I am searching for economical vendors but at the same time it is 'you get what you pay for'. If Steven Taub's video was not so good, then I will definitely check out VIP. I haven't booked the photographer yet but are VIP's picture packages inexpensive?

VIP

Wanda,

I just went through my photographer search and met with VIP about two weeks ago. Their prices are very reasonable. I think the video package started at about $1200 or so. The photo packages are also reasonable. I was looking to spend about $2500 to $3500 on pictures and I know that I could have stayed at $2500 with them, although I do not remember the specifics. The flyers might still be on the floor in my car - my file cabinet! I will check later.

Becky

LOL--Thanks Becky!!

I know what you mean about the file cabinet in your car. Mine is the backseat. I haven't visited photographers yet but VIP is one on the list. Amy information is helpful.
Thanks AGain!