Questions to ask a wedding videographer before booking
I know, it can be stressful searching for the perfect videographer. For most couples, this is the first time they are getting married and don’t know where to begin when looking for a videographer that will fit their needs. That’s why I created this list of five questions you need to ask before booking your wedding videographer
What is the final product?
This is the most important question. There have been many stories where couples thought they were getting something but it wasn’t in the package. Ask your potential videographer to list what’s in their package and to explain each item.
Here are the services commonly included in a video package:
- 6-8 hours of coverage – The number of hours you need a videographer will depend on the size of your wedding, location, and what you want to be filmed. For an average wedding day, 8 hours is usually a good amount of time.
- One videographer – There will always be at least one lead videographer and sometimes a second shooter or assistant. Knowing if you need to have more than one videographer will depend on the style of the videographer, the size of the wedding, and the location.
- A feature film that ranges from 3 – 10 minutes – This film will showcase the essence of the day. Make sure to ask if your vows will be included. Most of the time only parts of the vows and speech will be included in the feature film. Most videographers can provide the full ceremony and speeches for an additional cost.
- A downloadable link to your film – the final films are usually sent through a link or custom website. Some videographers offer USB or digital film books for an additional cost.
All videographers have different packages and most can customize a package for your needs. If you aren’t sure what you need ask the videographer to get on a call to go over their services. Before my clients book me I always ask to have an introductory call to make sure we are the best fit and that they have selected the best package for their day.
What is your postponement and cancellation policy?
In this current climate, it’s important to know and understand the postponement and cancellation policy of your potential wedding videographer.
- Postponements – Most videographers will allow a postponement with no charge if they are available for the new date you have selected. However, some do have a rescheduling fee. This fee is due to loss of business for the date you originally booked or their prices have increased. It’s important to keep your videographer in the loop when planning to postpone in order for them to open up that date for other potential clients.
- Cancellations – Every videographer is different when it comes to cancellations and some cancellations are handled on a case-by-case basis. It’s important to remember that these policies are set in place to secure dates and possible business loss. With that said, Many videographers will relieve you of the remaining payments if you notify them before the cutoff date that is stated in their contract but most of the time the deposit is non-refundable. Also, it has to be a viable reason to cancel. Make sure you ask what are the acceptable reasons to cancel. This is usually stated in the contract but worth asking before booking. If you are in a situation where you have to cancel and will possibly lose your deposit I suggest asking if they can apply the deposit to something else in the future.
Will there be chances for revisions?
Before contacting a videographer make sure you have thoroughly reviewed their work and like their style. All videographers have worked really hard to perfect their style and process. Therefore, revisions are based on the videographer and the nature of the revisions. However, there could be times when you dont want a specific person in the shot or you would like a clip to be removed. Ask your potential videographer if they are willing to make small changes if they come up.
When should I expect my film?
Before hiring a videographer you need to be aware of the delivery timeline. Every videographer has a different timeline and many factors will determine the delivery date. One main factor is the time of year. Spring and fall are the busiest time for most wedding professionals and could cause a backlog. Some videographers offer faster delivery for a fee but keep in mind that crafting a film can take many hours and you don’t want to rush the process.
Will I be able to choose my music?
This is a common question couples ask and most of the time the answer is no. In order to use a song in a video, you need to get the legal rights to use it. Most songs that couples want to use are from a famous artist and can cost a lot of money ( $79 – $1,000+) if it’s even allowed to be used. It’s important to get the licenses to use a song because it’s required for any video posted on the internet. There are subscriptions like Musicbed, Soundstrip, and Artlist that have a huge variety of music that many videographers use. I really like to build a connection with my couples. This allows me to know the music they like in order for me to select a song that truly represents their relationship.
If you are looking for a wedding videographer or have more questions about how to find the perfect videographer feel free to contact me 🙂
