A Wedding Videographer - Should I have one?
It is a common debate among brides, should I have a wedding videographer? With arguments for and against using one, the decision can be confusing. We have weighed up the pros and cons of having a wedding videographer to help make your decision easier.
Personal Moments with Guests
A popular feature of wedding videos is that family and friends can record meaningful words on camera for the happy couple to hear later. This is perfect for those who did not get to properly congratulate the bride and groom on the day. It can also capture the natural interactions between guests throughout the event. Seeing your family and friends brought together and connecting over your wedding is a special moment.
The Benefit of Audio
One big advantage video has over photography is the ability to capture movement and audio. This means that the bride's walk down the aisle, vows and speeches can all be recorded and relived over and over again. Chances are you were a bundle of nerves and emotion during these moments, so seeing them again can be rewarding.
View From A New Perspective
With so much going on, your wedding day is often a blur, going by faster than expected. A wedding video allows you to relive this experience at a much slower pace, seeing things from a new perspective and discovering moments you didn't know happened. After a few watches you will have a whole new understanding and love for your big day.
See Emily and Zane's wedding here
For Those Who Missed It
If a loved one could not make it to your wedding then a video is a great way to share the experience with them. A good videographer captures the event from all angles, making them feel as if they were there. Wedding videos are easily sharable thanks to the magic of digital media.
Real Candid Moments
One of the main criticisms of wedding photography is that often photos are far too posed. The nature of video means that it is easy to capture genuinely candid moments, largely because people forget that the videographer is there. Unlike photos, video is likely to capture more unplanned candid moments, giving you memories you didn't expect.
Jacqui & Carl's wedding - see more here
Budget Concerns
Weddings are expensive. A wedding videographer is an additional cost that needs to squeeze into your budget. Many brides believe that it is a service that cannot be missed and that it is worth compromising on other expensive to afford one. Alternatively, if you have a friend who is handy with a camera or editing software, ask them to be the photographer or videographer for the event and professionally hire the other. Another option is to ask your guests to be the photographers. Ask them to snap special moments on their digital devices and send them to you.
Won't they get in the way?
Many of the main concerns with hiring a wedding videographer come from worries that they will get in the way of the day and the photographer. A good wedding photographer should be able to capture all your special moments without a big fuss. Additionally, if they communicate with the photographer, they can work together make sure they both get the best shots of your wedding. Communication between you, your photographer and videographer is essential to ensure everything runs smoothly.
Editing Woes
Another issue many brides have is that when they receive their wedding video, they are unhappy with the editing decisions made. Editing includes transition, musics and overall style of the video and can make a huge difference. The best way to solve this problem is to ask questions of potential wedding videographers before hiring them. Asking for work samples is the best way to get an indication of their personal style. Don't be afraid to tell them what you want, after all you are paying for the service.
See Safa & Dani's wedding here
A Photographer Is Enough For Me
If you aren't into the idea of having video footage, it is perfectly acceptable to stick to just a photographer. Photos capture your most cherished moments, making them and unforgettable part of your wedding. Ultimately the decision is yours to make and you should feel no pressure to hire additional services you don't want.
Find out more about wedding videography here and check this out for top wedding photography tips.
Ready to find the perfect videographer for your big day? Click here for some Modern Wedding approved videographers!
Feature image: Michael & Natalie's wedding - see more here