From The Straits Times    |

PHOTO: Joshua Rainey / 123rf.com

1. GET THE RIGHT PERSON
A good videographer is able to deliver the feel or “magic” you want in your video that will have guests laughing and crying at the right moments. Ask around for references or check out bridal forums for recommendations. Then make a list of the top five and visit their websites before setting up meetings.

2. KNOW THE QUESTIONS TO ASK
Ask about his/her style and storytelling approach – cinematic, documentary, or a mix of both? How will the sound be handled? Has he/she shot a wedding at your ceremony/reception site and will he/she be the one doing the job for you? How would he best capture you as a couple? Does he have samples of his work?

See also: 5 fairytale destinations you’ll love for romantic wedding portraits and honeymoons

3. IS HE PAYING ATTENTION?
Talk about the kind of wedding and party you’ve planned, and note his body language. Look for clues that show he’s paying attention and genuinely wants to know the details. These include looking at you directly, taking notes and asking questions.

4. YOU’VE GOT CHOICES
Most videographers today shoot on high-definition digital film and produce DVDs that offer extremely sharp images and last for more than 30 years. Videos can incorporate a mix of music and sound bites from the day, be set to songs or include graphics or animation. Once you’ve agreed on the look and feel, list important moments, people and other details (shooting flowers, dress details and more) that are not to be missed out.

See also: 10 clever wedding portraits to try now

5. USE TWO CAMERAS
Ensure that the contract with your hired videographer includes the use of two cameras – one to capture the event as it unfolds and another to focus on you and your groom.

6. READ BETWEEN THE LINES
Go over the contract thoroughly. While a videographer shoots the entire event, the raw footage is edited to about an hour’s worth of screening on a DVD. Clarify what you’ll be getting – from his name to the number of cameras and whether there will be live a feed from the event as well as the final number of DVDs you’ll receive and when. Also ask about his policy on changes during editing – past a certain number of editing hours, some may charge extra.

7. THE VISUAL GUYS’ MEET
It’s important that your photographer and videographer meet to discuss a game plan, so they – and you – get positive results from the actual day and night. For instance, the latter will require lights, which may cramp your photographer’s style.

 

See also: Captivating lights! 12 romantic ideas for your wedding portraits and ceremony

This story was first featured in Her World Brides Sept to Nov 2014.