Hi, I’m Forrest Proctor, and I’ve spent over a decade capturing some of the most special moments of people’s lives through wedding videography. If you’re a bride planning your big day, you know how overwhelming it can be to find the perfect videographer. After all, this person will be responsible for preserving memories you’ll cherish forever.
In this blog, I’ll share five key things to look for when choosing a wedding videographer. Whether you’re in the early stages of planning or narrowing down your options, these tips will ensure you spend your money wisely and get the best product and service for your big day.
1. Portfolio and Style
The first thing to consider is the videographer’s portfolio and style. Just as you might select a photographer based on their aesthetic, you should also identify a video style that resonates with you. Do you prefer a vintage, light-and-bright, or cinematic look? Maybe you love the timeless feel of 8mm film or the emotional storytelling of a highlight reel.
Use platforms like YouTube to explore wedding videos that inspire you. Save your favorite examples to a Pinterest board or a document to reference later. When you start researching local videographers, look for those who align with the style you love. If you’re in a larger city like Atlanta, you might find several videographers with the exact style you’re envisioning.
2. Experience and Reviews
Experience matters when it comes to wedding videography. Weddings can be unpredictable, and seasoned videographers are better equipped to handle any hiccups that may arise. Check how long the videographer has been in the business and the number of weddings they’ve filmed.
Reviews are another crucial factor. Platforms like Facebook, Google, WeddingWire, and The Knot are great places to read feedback from previous clients. Pay attention to common themes in reviews. Are they praised for their professionalism, communication, or ability to blend seamlessly into the event? A videographer with glowing reviews is often a safe bet.
Don’t forget to weigh the importance of any negative feedback. For instance, a minor complaint about slightly late delivery may not be a dealbreaker if the videographer’s style is exactly what you want.
3. Personality and Communication
When you hire a videographer, you’re not just paying for their technical skills; you’re also hiring someone who will be present during intimate and emotional moments of your wedding day. That’s why personality and communication are so important.
I recommend speaking with your potential videographer on the phone or in person. You can quickly gauge whether they’re enthusiastic, easy to work with, and genuinely care about your vision. A videographer should recognize that while this may be their 80th wedding, it’s your first (and hopefully only!) wedding.
If they seem uninterested, unwilling to communicate, or treat your wedding as “just another job,” it’s a red flag. Instead, look for someone who is passionate about their craft and truly values the opportunity to capture your special day.
4. Packaging and Pricing
Different brides want different things from their wedding video. Some prefer a short, emotional highlight reel, while others want a long-form documentary-style video. Make sure you understand what your videographer offers before booking.
Review their packages carefully, and watch sample videos to ensure their offerings match your expectations. Misaligned expectations can lead to disappointment, so clear communication about deliverables is essential. If you want something specific—like full footage of the father-daughter dance—discuss it upfront. Most videographers are happy to accommodate reasonable requests.
5. Backup Plan and Reliability
Finally, ensure your videographer has a reliable backup plan. Life happens, and you want to feel confident that your wedding will still be covered if an emergency arises.
In my business, I have trained second shooters who can step in if I’m unable to attend a wedding. Make sure your videographer has a similar contingency plan in place. Additionally, read through their contract to confirm their policies on refunds and replacements.
Closing Thoughts
Choosing a wedding videographer is a big decision, but by focusing on these five factors—portfolio, experience, personality, pricing, and reliability—you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect match.
If you’re a bride with questions or need guidance in selecting a videographer, feel free to reach out to me through my websites:👉 https://epochcreativegroup.com👉 https://epochfilmandphoto.com
And if you’re a videographer reading this, remember that genuine care and a commitment to excellence will always set you apart. Thank you for reading, and I hope these tips help make your wedding planning process a little smoother!
Forrest ProctorCreative Director, Epoch Creative Group
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