WEDDING HINTS & TIPS | CHOOSING THE RIGHT VIDEOGRAPHER
Choosing the Right Videographer: Why Doing Your Homework Matters
From my point of view as a photographer, your choice of videographer can have a huge impact not just on your video, but on your wedding photos too. I’ve worked alongside some brilliant videographers who are discreet, creative, and a joy to work with. I’ve also worked with others where tripods, lights, and constant directing have changed the whole feel of the day.
That’s why it’s so important to do a bit of research before you book.
Not All Videographers Work the Same Way
Just like photographers, every videographer has their own style. Some shoot in a natural, documentary way (which works perfectly with how I photograph), while others are more staged and hands-on. Neither approach is “wrong”, but you need to know what you’re signing up for.
If you’re drawn to a relaxed, candid day, a videographer who’s setting up lights, placing tripods down the aisle, or asking you to repeat things for the camera could completely change the atmosphere—and it will show in your photos as well as your film.
Ask About Their Setup & How They work
I always recommend asking a few practical questions when looking to book a wedding videographer(here are a couple to get you started):
Do they use tripods, and where do they go during the ceremony?
Will they be moving around a lot, or staying more static?
Do they use extra lighting, and how bright is it?
How many videographers are included in the package?
These things might seem minor, but trust me—they make a big difference. A tripod at the end of the aisle could be in every ceremony photo. Extra lights can change the mood of a room. And more people mean more bodies to work around and often your wedding guests will feel like whereever they turn there will be a camera pointing at them.
Experience Really Shows
In the same way you’d want a photographer who’s comfortable with weddings, it’s worth investing in an experienced videographer. The ones who’ve shot dozens (or hundreds) of weddings know how to move quietly, stay out of the way, and work in harmony with me as the photographer.
The cheaper end of the market can sometimes mean someone who doesn’t have that experience yet. And that’s where you run into problems—blocking shots, slowing things down, changing the flow of the day, or standing at the end of the aisle resulting in being in everyphoto of the bride and her bridesmaids walking down the aisle.
Look Beyond the Highlights
Videographers often show a beautiful three-minute highlight reel on their website, and while those are great to watch, they don’t tell you the full story. Ask to see a complete film. That way you’ll see how they capture the ceremony, the speeches, and the atmosphere throughout the whole day.
Teamwork with Your Photographer
This is a big one for me: the relationship between your photographer and videographer. If they respect each other’s space, you’ll get the best of both worlds—beautiful photos and an amazing film.
When they’re not working together, it shows. Just look at the images above—one badly placed tripod can ruin an otherwise perfect photo.
If you’re unsure, ask me. I’ve got a few videographers I love working with (and who shoot in the same relaxed, natural style as me). Booking one of them means I know your photos and film will complement each other perfectly.
Don’t Cut Corners
I’ve seen it too many times: couples spend money on extras like favours or decorations, and then go for the cheapest videographer they can find or they have some budget left over and think ‘we should get a wedding video’. Unfortunately, the result can be a rushed, awkward video—and sometimes it even compromises the photography because of how it’s filmed.
Your photos and film are the two things that will stay with you long after the day is over. They’re worth the investment.
My Advice
Videography can be an incredible way to relive your day—it captures things photography can’t, like the sound of your vows and the laughter in the speeches. But not all videographers work the same way, so do your research, ask the right questions, and make sure their style fits both your vision and your photographer's work.
Do that, and you’ll have photos and a film that tell the same story, side by side, without stepping on each other’s toes.
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