How to Choose a Wedding Videographer You Will Actually Love

Planning a wedding involves a whole lot of decision making, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by all of them. If you think about it, some of the choices you need to make in the planning process will shape how your wedding is remembered, forever. That can feel like a ton of pressure! Luckily, though, choosing a wedding videographer doesn’t have to be nearly as stressful a process as you might think. If you’re on the hunt now, we have a few key tips to keep in mind—whether you’re looking for a digital wedding videographer or one who specializes in creating super 8 wedding films. 

How to choose a wedding video style

Knowing your preferred wedding video filming style is key to helping you identify the right videographer for your special day. While there are plenty of styles to choose from, both trendy and classic, it can be easier than you think to find the right one for you and your spouse. One method is to crawl Instagram or YouTube for some inspiration—are there any public wedding videos that immediately stand out to you? Do you like a more cinematic, almost movie-like approach? Or would you prefer a documentary style that captures things in the moment, as they happened? Does a vintage film format feel the most suitable? Close your eyes and picture the kind of wedding video you would actually watch again and again, long after that wedding cake in your freezer is finally gone. How does it make you feel, and why?

What to look for in a wedding videographer portfolio

The result of Googling “wedding videographer near me” is enough to make anyone's head spin. You’re bound to find dozens, if not hundreds, of options in your area. But checking out the galleries from an experienced wedding videographer can help make your decision infinitely easier—if you know what to keep an eye out for. Looking at these work examples requires more than just figuring out if you like what you see. One of the most underrated and crucial elements of a wedding video is the audio quality. Does the videographer seem to have proper gear? Can you hear each distinct voice clearly? Is there any feedback or strange sounds coming through? Is the volume roughly the same throughout the video?

You should also consider whether their portfolio shows how they handle filming in multiple locations and types of lighting. Does their work really shine in outdoor spaces but then go downhill during an indoor reception? How do they capture candid versus posed moments? Do they make each scene seem natural and really true to the vibe of the couple and guests?

Questions to ask a wedding videographer

During your search, you want to be thorough in making sure that your needs are compatible with what a potential videographer offers. Not only that, but you want to separate a “good” wedding videographer from a great one. Think of it like facilitating a job interview—because, in a way, it almost is! You want to be sure you know what kind of professional you’ll be trusting during one of the most significant events of your life. To do this, you’ll want to keep in mind some questions to ask them when you’re having an initial consultation:

• How would you describe the filming style you’re most experienced with?

• How do you maintain a balance between candid and posed moments in each wedding video?

• What would you say are the most important elements of a good wedding video?

• What is one of the examples of work you’re most proud of?

• Do you have any signature styles you prefer to use?

• Do you plan a shot list ahead of time?

• Are there any add-on services you recommend?

• What’s your usual turnaround time?

• What is your preferred method of communication, and in what timeframe do you typically respond?

Is a wedding videographer actually worth it?

There are plenty of questions you should ask any potential wedding vendor—but there are also some questions you and your spouse should ask yourselves. For one, how do you want your wedding day to be remembered? How much are you willing to invest in keepsakes of the day? Do you see yourself coming back to a wedding video again and again over the years? If so, hiring a wedding videographer is definitely worth the investment. After all, you’ll only experience that day once! You want to make sure you have plenty of ways to honor that uniqueness and share the memories with everyone who celebrated with you.

How do I find the best wedding videographer for me?

Ultimately, beyond the filming style and fancy equipment a wedding videographer might offer, establishing a real human connection with them is the true north star when it comes to choosing one. If you’re investing time and money into hiring one for such an important occasion, you want to know that it’s going to be an enjoyable and meaningful experience—for you, for your spouse, and for the rest of your guests. Really taking time to connect with them as a person is a surefire way to get the most out of your wedding videographer. Try to get to know their personality, their working style, and learn a bit more about their passion and why they love being a wedding videographer. Hearing their story and understanding what helps them do their best work will also help you get the best result. Communication is key, and it’s always a two-way street! So be sure to look out for whoever you feel best fits your vibe and makes you feel like you can trust them with such an important occasion.

If you’re looking for a North Florida wedding videographer and you like what you see here, head to our contact page to get in touch! We’re happy to help you plan out the best way to remember your special day.