To Video or Not to Video – That is the Question

1 Written by jenny on June 18, 2010 – 5:00 am

If a picture is a thousand words, how much is a video worth?  While photographs are able to capture moments in time, video can capture the sounds, the emotions, and the reactions.  A wedding videographer can capture things a photographer cannot.  The reciting of vows, the best man speech, a couple’s first dance, or even the wedding procession (think JK Wedding Entrance) – these are all wedding memories that are better experienced through video.

However, when it comes to weddings, more couples will hire a photographer over a videographer.  Often, this is a budgeting decision.  As the cost of weddings has risen, couples are trying to come up with ways to save money.  Given the choice between a photographer and a videographer, most couples will pick a photographer.  However, if couples establish their budget early enough, a videographer can be priceless.

Back in 2003, the Wedding & Event Videographers Association (WEVA International) commissioned a survey of brides who got married in 2002 (sadly, this is the most recent survey available).  Of brides who did not hire a professional videographer, 60% wish they had.  Of the brides who did use a videographer, 95% think future brides should consider using a professional videographer.   The survey results clearly show that brides realize the importance of a videographer AFTER the wedding has happened.  (Full survey results here: LINK)

Basic Videography Decisions

If you are considering a videographer, here are a few basic choices to consider.

1. Short form vs. Long form

While you might be interested in the play-by-play of your entire wedding (1-2 hour video), you can also opt for the highlights (anywhere from 5-30 minutes).

2. Editing counts

Where a photographer takes hundreds of shots and allows you to proof them, your videographer will be handling the editing.  The editing prowess of your videographer is just as important as their filming ability.  Make sure you like their style by watching other videos they have created (and try to sample a few – not just their best work).

3. Videographer styles

There are a wide range of videography styles just as there are many photography styles.  You can have a purely journalistic style where the videographer captures all the moments of the wedding from the background and pieces them together.  You can also choose a more staged approach where the couple is interviewed about how they met or how they got engaged.  This can also be supplemented with interviews and best wishes from the guests.  Some videographers also use the old 8mm cameras to create a vintage feel.  The finished product can be sweet and romantic or it can be fast-paced and lively (sometimes called “MTV-style”).  These are all up to the couple!

We at The Wedding Lens believe all wedding memories are precious.  And if it’s one less latte a day until your wedding, maybe you can squeeze it into your budget!