So - what about video

There are couples who make a conscious decision to have their day filmed by a professional videographer, others who like the idea but only if their budgets stretch that far and then there are those who are just not into movies.
I think it fair to say that a Videographer or Cinematographer (the latest term) is often one of the last professionals to be hired.

The importance of a movie is generally not fully appreciated before a wedding as all of the energy goes into the making of that perfect event - venues, wedding dress, rings, bridesmaids’ dresses, hair, makeup, suits for the groom and groomsmen, celebrants, flowers, music, transportation are all high priority. Let’s face it - your decisions in these areas give your day its style and individuality.

The photographer is even considered early in the planning as the traditional method of preserving the memories of the day. Let me just add at this stage that a good photographer is worth every dollar that you spend. You won’t regret it.

So what about video..... well, it seems that after the event those couples who hired videographers now fully appreciate the powerful and dynamic memories they have.
Nothing can capture the fun, excitement and emotion of a wedding day quite like a professionally filmed and edited movie . Your wedding vows, speeches, your first dance as husband and wife all require more than just a photo. Those precious and magical moments, sight and sound are preserved as they actually happened, making it one of the best investments you could have made.
I'm often told by couples that after all of the planning and hard work that went into making their special occasion, the day itself passes so quickly.
Having your day filmed will give you a beautiful lasting memory that will be treasured for years and at any time you can relive the magic of your wedding day.


There are many videographers around, so I guess it comes down to the type of movie you have in mind. Each videographer generally has his own style which he or she feels comfortable with and enjoys shooting.

The most common styles are: Documentary, Cinematic or Video Clip.

It’s not for me to say which is better as I’ve seen brilliant work in each of these styles. It’s really about what you prefer and what you’ll feel comfortable with on the day.

A brief explanation:

Documentary (or Journalistic style as its often called) captures the candid and natural emotion of the day. It really focuses on the day’s events as they happen with minimal arrangements of shots by the videographer. It is probably the least intrusive.
In my opinion this style of video requires at least two cameras (three are even better) as it generally requires simultaneous shooting in more than one location. It does give great coverage of your day with all the natural sound and generally requires a higher budget (more footage taken which equates to more editing time). Parts of the movie can have some musical soundtrack but you hear plenty of the original sound.
Some videographers consider this style a little boring but shot correctly it can be the closest thing to actually being there.

The Cinematic style is like the Documentary style in some respects with a little more Hollywood thrown in. Its aim is to create a dramatic movie using some classic effects coupled with smooth transitions, making it free-flowing from start to end. There should be plenty of natural sound coupled with some background musical soundtrack. It makes great viewing and captures the day by really highlighting the excitement and emotion. This style should deliver a feature length movie with all of the associated opening and closing credits together with an extensive menu selection.
Again this style is better shot with multiple cameras so is generally on the higher end of the price range.

Music Video Clip or Video Clip style is a fast pace, funky movie with more music than natural sound.
It has become a popular style in recent times. It is a great style, great to film and should be artistic with plenty of properly edited effects. Filmed and edited correctly, they can look amazing.
Obviously much shorter than the previous two styles It has also become the favourite for many videographers. They are fun to shoot and very cost-effective, as this style can be shot by a single camera person.
They actually require less editing time too, so generally are much cheaper to produce.
Couples choosing this style should be aware that it may be more intrusive than the other styles, as the camera person is required to move around more with more arranging of shots.


So how do you choose the right videographer?

You probably have in mind the type of video you’d like and the budget you have to work with. Make appointments and visit each of the videographers you feel might be what you are looking for.
Compare packages and prices and exactly what they include. Do they represent good value for money? Ask about the equipment they use, making sure it is professional gear. Do they have back-up equipment? View their finished products (not just their video clips or showreels as these always show the best parts) ask to view weddings similar to the type you are planning.
How good is the picture and how good is the sound? Do the videographers display a high level of competence?

Lastly, check out their personalities as you must feel confident in the ability of whoever you choose and feel comfortable in their presence.
After all, they are going to share and record one of the most important days of your life.


Andy Wilson

DVdynamics wedding video production and photography