Photography & Videography 101

The best wedding photos will capture not only your physical appearance and the setting, but also the entire spirit of the day—including all of the accompanying emotions. It takes an experienced, proven photographer to deliver these memorable shots, which is why you need to choose your photographer with care.

Be clear about what kind of shots you want. Specify certain locales. Share samples of photography that appeals to you. A good photographer will be eager to work with you—not just for you.

Yes, considerable planning is required if you want scrapbooks, albums, and frames full of gorgeous photographs of your wedding day. But rest assured this preparation will give you the pictures you and your family will treasure for many years to come.

Video Editing
Photography is a wedding essential, but for a complete record of your celebration, you should strongly consider hiring a professional videographer as well. Friends and family members may enjoy recording their own video of your wedding, but there will be no comparison in the quality of their efforts to that of an experienced, well-trained pro. Keep the following in mind as you meet with each candidate:

Ask to see a video of an entire wedding. (A demo tape of various wedding scenes won’t show you actual wedding coverage.) Your demonstration should include examples to help you understand the difference between one- and two-camera coverage. The coverage should flow with the proceedings, interacting with the guests—not intruding. Poor scenes should have been edited out.

Ask about his or her experience level. Be sure there is a contract outlining all the responsibilities and costs. Expect to pay a deposit when you reserve the date and to be charged if you cancel. Ask what happens if a personal emergency arises for the videographer you’ve contracted. Most professionals network with others of comparable experience, so they’ll be able to assure you that their contract will be fulfilled.