5 Questions to ask your videographer
In this post I’ll be sharing my top questions you can ask wedding videographer, BEFORE you book with them. I wrote this blog for couples who are in planning mode. You’ve found a videographer you like, now what? Choosing a videographer is an important decision and you want to make sure you pick the right one. As a videographer myself, I want to help you make an informed decision.
Question 1: What type of wedding films do you make? Highlight style or documentary style?
This is the FIRST decision you need to make as a couple! What kind of video do you want? Are you looking for a shorter video that’s fast paced, engaging and highlights the big events of your day, or are you looking for a longer movie like edit that can up to 45 minutes long? Videographers usually only do one or the other so before booking one you need to know which style you are looking for.
I’m a huge fan of highlights. I think they can be fun and faced paced but also cinematic and romantic. They can also be tailored to each couple, that’s why we make highlight films instead of documentary. Of course, this doesn’t mean one is better than the other. Its all about preference!
Here is an example of a highlight we made for this couple from California! They invited their guests to an intimate campsite and held their ceremony around a campfire with their closest friends and family.
Question 2: What is included with a wedding video package
Like I said before, every videographer is different and their packages will be just as unique as them. One might offer full day coverage, another goes by hour. It’s important to know what comes with each package so you understand exactly what your buying.
For example, all of our packages come with full day coverage. This allows us to be there for every special moment, and gives our video more variety when it comes to editing. Another example is drone footage. Does every package include drone footage or is it an add on? Of course, ask about the exact cost of the packages. Most videographers will put a starting cost on their website. This is helpful to couples so they know immediately if a videographer is within their budget. If the videographer you like does not have a pricing list then a quick email or even a DM asking is never a problem!
Question 3: What is your booking process?
Remember that videographers are service providers. So, they have to stay a few steps ahead of all mandates that arise. Be sure to ask about their payments policies in situations like this. If restrictions do happen in your area forcing you to relocate or cancel any plans, Let your videographer know ASAP!
Every videographer is different so there isn’t a “common” booking process. The only common item for any videographer is a signed contract and a retainer fee. Retainer fees can also change per videographer some require a 50% retainer while others only require 30%. These fees are usually non-refundable. Both of these are how you secure your date with them. Typically a videographer will put a hold on the date until the contract is signed but some may not so be quick if you think you’ve found the right fit!
Question 4: What are some things we can expect from you on the day of?
Communication and professionalism is key! Especially around your friends and family. Give your videographer all the information they need before the day of so they can come prepared. Talk with them about the timeline and ANY family differences they should be aware of. You can almost always expect your videographer to go over how they plan to set up your wedding. Who and how they will mic for audio, where to expect tripods, and spotlights during the reception. This makes sure that the day of the wedding there are no surprise set ups and the couple are fully aware of any and all equipment being used.
We always talk to our couples they day of, so thy know exactly what our ETA is, notify them of any changes and to confirm the set ups originally discussed. We like your couples to not be stressed the day of but to have fun and enjoy what’s going on.
Question 5: How will you deliver our wedding video to us?
Another unique aspect to every videographers process! Some do an online share with Venmo or Google Drive. Others might attach it to an email as a downloadable file. There are even some who go the extra mile and send you a USB drive with the video file on it. (We LOVE this!) However your videographers wants to send your file, always confirm its a high quality copy that easily accessible to you.
We like to do a combination of a few. We do an online transfer through a company called WeTransfer. This is the best way to send your video as soon as it’s finished. We like WeTransfer because it is fast and simple without downgrading the quality like an internet portal such as Youtube or even google drive would.
Bonus Question: Is there a photographer you usually work with?
If you haven’t found a photographer yet this should absolutely be your next question! Most videographer has at least one or two photographers they really like. This is great for other wedding creatives to connect! Having a great wedding team for both photo and video will make everything more cohesive and unified. Also the stress that is immediately lifted from your shoulders by having a good team is EVERYTHING!
Don’t be afraid to ask your videographer a million questions! They are the expert , they want this process to be as smooth as possible for you. So, talk with them ask them all your questions and understand exactly what you are investing in.