Choosing a Videographer: Look At Real Samples!

by Greg James of Solstice Video Productions

In my experience, I have had a number of brides approach me after they had their video made who were upset to find out that their wedding video did not turn out the way the company presented themselves in their demos. While the more reputable video production companies should be creating demos that best represent their work as a whole, this unfortunately is not always the case. You can get a great jumpstart with your search by looking at demos, but understand that these are carefully picked highlights of the production company's work and does not always tell the full story. To decide on the perfect videographer for your wedding day, first and foremost you'll need to see complete samples of their work. Better yet, visit them at their studio and ask to see complete weddings, so you get a good idea firsthand on how the artisan will craft a story out of your amazing day. You don't need to watch them in their entirety; skip around a bit to get a good cross-section of the type of work they do. A professionally crafted DVD should be arranged in chapters, so this should be easy to do.

In meeting the artisan at their studio, you will also get a good idea of their personality and whether you will feel comfortable having him or her following you throughout your day. I can't express how important this is. In addition to being an incredible videographer and creative editor, your perfect videographer must also have an adaptive and comforting personality. If you don't feel comfortable with your videographer in meeting them, chances are you will not feel comfortable when they are around you on your wedding day.

Also, contracts can vary, so read the fine print carefully and be aware of the payment terms. Have them read the contract over with you thoroughly before booking. Most companies will require a deposit when you book their services, so this should not come as a surprise. But other surprises may abound later if the contract is not fully examined.

- Greg James, www.solsticevideo.com