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At first, choosing the right videographer can sound like a difficult task, but it can be much easier if the bride and groom do their homework beforehand! Most brides will be very disappointed with the results produced by asking an amateur friend or relative to film the events. Even if this amateur is using the latest technology, the results are still likely to suffer from their complete lack of experience, shaky camera, poor audio and poor editing (if any). It's too late to ask a professional videographer at this stage, the damage has been done.
Couples should start by researching videographers very soon after the church and venue have been booked and confirmed. The best time to book a videographer is usually at the same time as the photographer. You will find that many photographers will recommend videographers and visa versa. If you leave it too late, you may be disappointed to learn that your first choice of videographer has been booked by somebody else.
Unlike professional photography, there is currently no active governing body or association for professional videographers operating in Ireland. Simply put, this means that standards are going to vary a lot between different videographers. Most couples make the assumption that all videographers are of the same quality, film in the same style and possess the same mannerisms. However, nothing could be further from the truth.
There is a stereotype of the wedding videographer in Ireland, and let's face it, its not a very nice image. This stereotype originates from the 1980s when the industry was in its infancy and the vast majority of videographers entered the market with no formal training in order to "earn a few bob". If you ask any bride today what image first comes into her head as soon as you mention the words "wedding video", most will answer with "cheesy", "in your face", "annoying", "bright lights" etc. Thankfully, most videographers today have come a long way from this 1980s stereotype.
What can a couple do to ensure they get the right videographer for them? The first thing that a couple should decide, is what particular style do they want? For example, in terms of filming style, videographers will broadly fall into two main categories: discreet and interactive. A videographer who uses a discreet filming style will usually remain in the background for the entire day and film events as they naturally happen and will not orchestrate any events or create any setups. It would not be unusual for the couple and guests to hardly notice the videographer during the day. From my experience, this style seems to suit most Irish couples.
The other main filming style is that of the "interactive videographer". Here the videographer may casually chat to the bride / groom and guests as he is actually filming. He may request that the bride smile into the camera or that the couple hold hands as they are walking and then ask them to kiss. He may also set up a "fake walking away" scene at the end of the night. There are many other ways in which he can embarrass the entire bridal party into performing for the camera. Quite often, people can feel very uncomfortable with this style for plenty of different reasons. If this isn't for you, then don't be afraid to book a videographer who uses the discreet style.
It is important to watch as many samples from as many different videographers as possible. You should also request to receive sample DVDs to watch at home. When watching their DVDs, ensure that the picture does not momentarily skip or jump. Also, look out for both clarity of picture and sound (particularly during the vows and speeches). Important questions to ask yourself are:
1. Is the editing smooth? i.e. does each scene change occur naturally in a seamless fashion, or have sentences been cut-off abruptly?
2. Look out for any graphics and titles used. Do you think they will date well? What looks flashy now may not look as good in 5 or 10 years time.
You will probably quickly narrow down your selection after watching the sample DVDs. The good ones should stand out straight away. Other considerations are:
1. Does the videographer have a good reputation? The main online wedding forums are usually a good place to research this for yourself.
2. Use your instincts to get a feeling for what the videographer will be like on the day. Will they blend into the background unnoticed or will they be the "interactive type" as mentioned above.
3. Check that your videographer uses wireless or radio microphones. Also ensure that he or she carries backup equipment at all times.
4. Ask does your videographer carry adequate public liability insurance. Certain hotels and churches may not allow a videographer to film the events unless proof of public liability insurance can be provided.
Hopefully these tips and pointers will help in your search for the perfect videographer.
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