Magic Hour Productions

80% of brides who did not get a videographer for their wedding say they wish they had.

Is it because of the reputation of “uncle ed” and his trusty camera in the back of the church?

Or do brides just not know what to look for in a professional videographer?

Many brides have difficulty in discerning between a professionally trained videographer and a person who happens to own a camera. There is a big difference.

A difference that can mean a lifetime of emotional memories captured on the most special day of your life. To help our brides gain insight on what they are looking for we have compiled a list of questions we have found brides asking the most frequently.

Questions and Answers

What is your background in Videography? Top
Most videographers are former blue collar workers who have decided to try self employment. It is VITAL to find a videographer who has a strong production background (not birthdays) or a degree in video production or telecommunications.

Who will do the videotaping? Top
Many companies subcontract work out to other free-lancers in the market. Some are qualified, others are from the church congregation. Find out who exactly will be your videographer.

Can we see any references? Top
Satisfied client testimonials are the best salespeople any business could ask for. Make sure you ask each videographer for references from the past year.

How many hours before the ceremony will you arrive? Top
Some videographers show up with just enough time to set up and shoot the ceremony. More professional companies try to arrive early enough to produce a documentary of the bride's arrival and preparations. Either option will work depending on your needs, but keep in mind that there are many once in a lifetime moments happening during your preparation.

How much does it cost for additional hours? Top
Most videographers have at least one unlimited hours package. It is standard to charge for additional hours not included in your package. Make sure you are on the same page with your videographer about when your time is up so you are not charged over your budget.

How many cameras are used at the ceremony? Top
Two cameras are usually enough to capture essence and emotion of the ceremony. More than two cameras can create a paparazzi atmosphere or professional production, depending on the company. With the addition of each camera you can expect a charge.

Do you use 1 chip or 3 chip cameras? Top
A very high tech but important question. One chip cameras are unacceptable and offer little improved quality over VHS. Three-chip cameras provide broadcast quality images and are second to none. While the color reproduction is as good as a TV show, the most notable advantage is the superb low-light performance.

What tape format do you use? Top
VHS, Hi-8, S-VHS and 8mm are consumer grade formats that only amateurs use. Digital Video (DV, Mini Dv) formats provide a broadcast quality picture, while remaining within your budget.

Will a fluid head tripod be used? Top
A fluid head tripod allows the user to make camera movements smoothly, eliminating the amature bumps and jumps that are commonly seen on “uncle eds” videos.

Do you use wireless microphones? Top
Most on camera microphones only work well a short distance from the subject. A virtually invisible wireless lapel microphone, usually worn by the groom, will capture both of your vows with crystal clear sound.

When do you leave? Top
For most weddings, the real party starts at the reception and after the garter/bouquet toss. Many precious moments can be captured while dancing away the night. The couple's exit also makes a nice ending to the movie.

Can you edit a baby photo montage? Top
A photo montage of the bride and groom as they grow up is a very elegant and emotional event to show either at your rehearsal dinner or the reception. These segments can also be implemented into your wedding movie depending on the company.

Can you explain how you edit? Top
Most companies should be able to create a simple wedding video. However, editing is the most important part of the post production process. This is why you need to find out what special techniques (letterbox, 16x9, slow motion, black and white and custom name graphics) the editors add to make your video into a professional movie.

When will we receive our video? Top
Most videographers say 3-6 months to complete the video. A true production company will have your wedding movie in the couples hands no later than 8 weeks after the wedding date.

Can we keep the raw footage? Top
Most videographers do not allow you to look at the raw footage let alone keep it. Even though only a fraction of the raw footage is used in the final movie, some couples like to watch the “behind the scenes” of their movie. Raw footage is a great way to see how your movie was conceived.

How many copies do we get? Top
These family heirlooms make great gifts for grandparents and relatives. They can very in price quite a bit but expect to pay $20-50 per DVD copy above that which is included in your package.