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Should you videotape your wedding?

Imagine what it would be like to watch the story of your parent's, or even your grandparent's wedding. Most couples say their wedding day went by so fast that they could hardly remember everything that happened. Not surprisingly, one of the biggest regrets couples experience after their wedding is their decision not to have professional video. A wedding is full of once-in-a-lifetime moments that should be documented and relived with future generations. Although good photographs capture singular moments, there is simply no substitute for a living, breathing account of one of the most defining events of your life.
Why shouldn't you just have your Uncle Charlie do it for free?

Unless your Uncle Charlie is Steven Spielberg, we can't emphasize enough what a huge difference there is between home video and a professionally-produced video. Your friend or relative may have great intentions, but it's very unlikely they have the equipment (professional cameras, wireless microphones, editing gear...) that a professional has. It's also very unlikely they have the know-how or experience to produce a great video. Also, do they have the stamina or readiness to be on top of all the especially important moments? The truth is, you can't just suck reality in through the lens of your camera. To make great video, you must be meticulous in searching out the best angles and experienced enough to anticipate the best moments. Your wedding story is simply too important to leave to chance.
What makes us different?

I want my clients to feel 100% certain that I'm right for the job. Aside from the quality of my work, what I sell most often is TRUST. I listen to YOUR ideas, I address YOUR concerns, and I use my expertise to design a wedding video that's UNIQUELY YOURS.

I understand that shooting a dynamite wedding video requires great sensitivity, a keen instinct for knowing when to ACT, when to REACT, and when to SIMPLY STAY PUT.
What distinguishes a "high end" video from a "low end" video?

High end videos require no excuses and capture the day's essential moments. The sound is clear and crisp, the images have accurate color and the camerawork is smooth. The pace is quick and captivating, never dragging on longer than necessary. Special effects are content driven, not just used because they "look neat". Mostly, the difference between a well produced, professional video and a low-end job should be obvious by your reaction to it - you either hate it or you love it.
How do I prepare for your wedding day?

I start by gathering lots of information so I may understand your personality and what's important to you. I go over the events of your wedding day with a fine-toothed comb and ask you the questions that will help me figure out "the story within your story". My goal is to have a thorough understanding of what to expect on your wedding day from beginning to end.
What will my presence be like at your wedding?

Much of this is up to you. Whether you want me on the alter with you or hidden in the balcony, it's your call. I work with you to figure out the approach that best suits your style. Always, my primary concern is making you and your guests feel comfortable.
Will bright lights and long cables overpower your wedding?

The last thing I want to do is turn your wedding into a Hollywood production. I use a very discrete setup, involving no cables or overpowering lights. My cameras do an excellent job of picking up quality images in low-light situations and I use a small light only when absolutely necessary.
How do I work with photographers?

My goal in working with any photographer is to negotiate where each of us will be working and what to expect from one another. Largely, I base my approach on YOUR preferences.
How long are my finished videos?

Typically, my finished videos will last no longer than 30-120 minutes depending on the service booked. Don't be fooled into thinking that a longer video means a better video. Rather, a longer video generally means a lot more fast-forwarding through the boring parts. How many times do you want to relive a reading, how many hours of dancing can you stand to watch? I believe the length of a video should be determined by the value of your content and not by an unwritten rule that says your video should be at least 2 hours long.

I edit according to the way we've been trained to watch television. All of us know how to "fill in the blanks". We understand that TV and movies compress time for the sake of keeping the action moving and the story compelling. In reality, it's much more difficult to edit in this style than it is to simply "chunk together" long, boring footage.
Why is music so important to your wedding video?

Music sets the tone for your entire video. I've seen wedding videos that rely on the same music over and over again, regardless of the emotional content of the scene. Oftentimes I'll wonder why so many videographers just assume that everyone's a Kenny G fan. It's more important that the music fits the mood of the occasion, reflecting your personality and enhancing the moment. No matter what your musical taste, you can have a great deal of input as to what music goes into your video.
How long will it take to finish your video?

Typically, videos will take between 2-4 weeks to complete depending on the season. It is not uncommon that I spend upwards of 50 hours editing a video. The only thing I guarantee is that it will be worth your wait.
How do I determine my prices?

My prices is based on one variable: time. The more footage that I have to work through, the more time that is required to edit your video. All tallied, I'll spend up to 70 hours with a single client. When you consider that most photographers generally spend half that amount of time on a single project it's no wonder that good videography should cost at least as much, if not considerably more than photography.
How soon before your wedding should you book?

Popular summer dates fill up quickly. It is not uncommon to book 6 months to 1 year in advance.

If you have any more questions please call and I'll be happy to answer anything!

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