Finding a Videographer
  • Start gathering resources and references by:
    • Viewing friends videos and asking for referalls
    • Get recommendations from photographers, caters, florists, etc. Make sure the referral isn't based on a commission so as to guarantee the referral is unbiased
    • Check the wedding sections of the local newspapers- there might be an advertisement or a general listing included
    • Check with the Better Business Bureau about the potential videographer
  • Once you've found some possibilities, set up appointments to meet with them. During the appointments:
    • Make sure that the footage you will be viewing is that of the videographer shooting at your wedding, not someone else from the same organization
    • Make sure the video images are clear and the lighting isn't too dim
    • Check out the sound quality. You should be able to hear what peopel are saying, and that the musical selections don't overwhelm the footage. 
    • Note the transition effects and special effects. Are they smooth or do they clutter and hamper the story/video?
    • Make sure that you feel at ease with the videographer since he/ she will be working closely with you and your family and friends. 
    • Make sure that the videographer is willing to listen to your input and special requests
    • Get references from the videographer and call them and ask about their satisfaction with both the videographer and the final product

Questions to ask
the Videographer                              
  1. What is the videographer's style? Do they prefer to shoot documentary style, more artsy, or in a direct mode (i.e. interviews with guests)
  2. How many weddings has the videographer shot? How does he/she prefer to "tell" the wedding story? Make sure to see samples
  3. Has the videographer won any awards, or is he/she a member of any videography associations?
  4. How does the videographer work with the photographer? Has he/she worked with your photographer before?
  5. Has the videographer ever shot at your selected ceremony and/or reception site? Ask to see the tapes if this is the case
  6. What types of equipment will the videographer be using (cameras, tapes, microphones). How new is the equipment? Will there be a backup for the equipment in case of equipment failure?
  7. Ask about special effects and ask the videographer to suggest the benefits of using certain techniques
  8. Ask about the editing equipment and process
  9. Ask about their lighting equipment and how bright the light is that they will be using
  10. Request a price list and package information

Contract Essentials
  • Name and contact information for you and the videographer
  • Date, number of hours, starting time and location where the videographer will be working, with exact addresses
  • Name of the videographer and his/her assistants
  • Number and kind of cameras to be used
  • Guarantee that a backup camera will be available in case of equipment failure
  • Complete package details including number of videos you'll receive
  • Date the unedited video will be ready 
  • Date you will receive the finished product, and approximately how long it will be in length
  • Total, itemized cost
  • Overtime fee
  • Reorder prices, should you decide to order additional videos
  • Deposit amount due
  • Balance and date due
  • Cancellation and refund policy
  • Videographer's signature
  • Special instructions:
    • People and events that must be filmed
    • Interview questions he should ask guests, and which guests to ask
    • Any special music or effects to be used
  • Make sure to make a copy of the contract for your own use and reference

back to checklists & contracts


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