Don’t overlook importance of video on big day

I’ve never heard a bride say she regrets having a wedding video, but I have heard countless brides say they regret not having one.

My wedding video is something I watch all the time. I’m not kidding; I watch it over and over. I love hearing the sound of our vows, hearing the toasts at our reception and of course watching the dancing and craziness go down in the Bahamas.

Today’s wedding videos are more than a tripod at the back of a church, but still many couples don’t put videography on their priority list. Modern-day wedding videos can be likened to a soundtrack of your relationship. They’re a music video of the most important day of your life and something you can look back on for years to come. A videographer will capture the laughter as you cut the cake, the band perfectly playing the song for your first dance and be the butter to your toast when it comes to complementing to your wedding album.

There are a few things to consider once you decide to hire a videographer. This person or team will be with you during your entire wedding day, so making sure you like them is key. Meet with them at least once and more if time permits to learn their style, workflow and expectations of the day.

Do some research before your meeting. Visit their website and social media sites to familiarize yourself with their work. If something stands out to you, make a note of it so you can share that with them.

Ask about equipment, such as cameras and microphones. Most couples don’t want a large crane swooping over the heads of their guests or a single microphone placed at the back of the church. Quality audio will come from having a mic on the groom and minister and an additional mic capturing the music throughout the ceremony. You’ll want to ensure your videographer uses multiple cameras and is familiar with any rules that may apply to your location. The right videographer can get an amazing shot, while also respecting the moment and not becoming a part of the ceremony.

Find a team player. Chances are, you’ll book your photographer before your videographer. It’s good to know if your videographer has worked with that photographer before, and if not, ask them how they handle working with a photographer. It’s important that your entire wedding team works well together. The last thing you want is for your photographer and videographer to compete for shots. You’ll also want to ask about a second shooter. Having another videographer on hand means more footage and more angles. Many videographers include a second shooter in their packages.

Beware of overbooking. Find out if your videographer will be shooting any other weddings on your day. You’ll want to make sure there is ample time to shoot your wedding along with any other commitments. Some companies, Hitched Film included, contract with other videographers throughout the year. If the person you meet with isn’t the same person that will be shooting your wedding, ask to meet with your shooter so you’re not faced with a stranger on your wedding day.

Be realistic. Pinterest is wonderful and full of great ideas. It’s fine to pick out some features you like, but remember that your day will be different and unique. Don’t expect a video exactly like the one you pinned three years ago. This is your story, and it will be different from anything else you’ve seen online.

There is no such thing as a stupid question. Don’t be afraid to go through the packages and find out exactly what each package and extra includes, how much coverage you’ll get during your wedding day and how your final product will be delivered. Ask about the timeline for your DVDs or thumb drive and prepare to have a little patience as most videos take three to six months to deliver. Just remember, you can’t rush creativity!

A lot goes into planning a wedding, from the flowers and cake to the caterer and entertainment. After countless hours of poring over details, a video is something that shouldn’t be overlooked. Make sure you spend time doing your research and finding a great fit for you. It’s not just any day. It’s one of the most important days of your life. Long live the memories.