Questions You HAVE to Ask Before Hiring a Wedding Videographer
/We've been asked a lot of questions over the years. Things like "do you need food and bathroom breaks" (the answer is yes...) "how long do you need to set up" and "what is the value of HD footage?" Here are the top questions we suggest you ask when interviewing a videographer for your wedding, and also a few questions you shouldn’t ask ;)
How many cameras do you use? To capture all the big moments, you need at least 2 camera angles. We've perfected our 1 person with 2 cameras approach, so make sure you're getting at least 2 camera angles!
Do you bring backup batteries? Batteries are fickle so any good videographer should always have backup batteries with them!
How do you back up your footage? We've all heard the horror stories of wedding footage going missing. Make sure your videographer has a solid backup plan for the footage, and maybe even a backup for the backup!
Do you capture audio from an external source? Camera audio can only capture so much. For big moments where it's important to hear words clearly like your ceremony, speeches, and toasts, your videographer should use an external mic or plug in to a direct audio source.
Do you charge extra for audio? Believe it or not, some people charge more for you to hear the audio captured on your day. We think that's crazy, but better to ask and be sure!
How do you work with my photographer? Your photographer and videographer need to work together as a team on your wedding day. This doesn't mean that they have to know each other beforehand, it just means that both people need to be committed to clear and open communication with each other. Both people are going to have unique needs on your day, and they need to work together to accommodate each other's requests and both get the best shots.
My photographer needs 5 minutes to set up, is that enough for you? Videography needs more set up time than photography. It's just a fact! A videographer is going to bring multiple bags, tripods, mics, and other equipment (sometimes upwards to 70lbs in total!) and all that stuff takes time to set up. You should always plan on a videographer needing *at least* 30 minutes of set up time before the start of the ceremony and reception as well as 5-10 minutes of set-up time when they get to any new space.
Something NOT to ask:
Do you need food and bathroom breaks? The answer is YES. Would you work for 6+ hours with no food, water, or restroom breaks? No, you wouldn't so don't expect your videographer (or photographers) to do that either.
