Question 1

Is a videographer worth it for a wedding?

Accepted Answer

You may think that having both wedding photos and a video is overkill or may not want to prioritise videography in your budget, but trust us—you'll want to hire a wedding videographer. For one, the day flies by, and there are things you'll miss that your videographer will capture beautifully, like seeing your grandmother's emotional reaction as you say your vows. Also, you have to think of the sounds that can't be captured in a photo, like your "I dos," the reception music and meaningful toasts. But don't just take our word for it—listen to feedback from these real brides from our message boards.

You may regret not getting a videographer. You may think pictures would be enough, and most people don't watch their videos anyway, but your wedding goes by so fast, and you miss many things. Plus, you feel like you'll be in a blissful daze for a lot of it and would love to have the important things captured in the video. But, unfortunately, pictures don't catch everything.

In short—it's a must. You may think that having both wedding photos and a video is overkill or may not want to prioritise videography in your budget, but trust us—you'll want to hire a wedding videographer.

Question 2

What is the difference between wedding videography and cinematography?

Accepted Answer

Distinguishing between these two terms has many buyers understandably confused and frustrated. There's a discrepancy between the actual definitions of the terms and how they're being re-defined in the marketing of video companies and freelancers. The unfortunate truth for customers is, depending on how each company or video freelancer uses the terms, there may or may not be a difference. So we will outline exactly what defines a videographer versus a cinematographer and what these terms should mean to you as a buyer of videography services — along with their historical context.

Professionals differentiate themselves by using DSLR videography to create a false hierarchy between a videographer and a cinematographer. As just explained, when a video professional defines themselves as a cinematographer or their work as cinematography, it more than likely means they're using a DSLR, nothing more. They'll tell you that a cinematographer creates art while a videographer simply records an event. They'll let you know that a cinematographer captures a feeling, not just a moment, or that videography isn't creative and doesn't involve storytelling technique. This is all nonsense.

A videographer is just as focused on all the qualities that make a compelling video. Having a camcorder vs. a DLSR doesn't make one a lesser professional. Sure, DSLRs have made way for more cinematic imagery, but the qualities that make a great videographer have little to do with equipment. So when shopping for video professionals, don't let cinematography weigh heavily on your decision. More than anything else, the cinematography is simply a marketing term.

Question 3

Why are wedding videographers so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Planning a wedding can be a costly event. Most couples are footing the bill themselves, with little to no help from relatives. However, when you're spending so much money on all of the details of your big party, it's essential to consider the long term–what precautions are you taking so you will remember this important–and expensive–day? You're so busy on the day of, it may fly by without you even getting the chance to look at the centrepieces that you spent $3000 on! You can also rent from a reputable rental business. This way you can save money.

Many couples look to wedding videography to resolve that worry. Wedding cinematography not only lets you revisit the crucial details that made your day yours, but it also lets you listen to your vows being spoken at the altar, hears the sweet speeches from your friends and family and sway to the beat of the music as you watch your first dance as a married couple.

While videography costs may seem like a large portion of your wedding budget, consider the value of the service and product you're receiving. The cost of editing alone is more than what you're spending!

Question 4

How many videographers do I need?

Accepted Answer

One Person Cannot Be in 2 Places At Once

When you have two photographers, the timeline will be set up so that both preps are happening simultaneously, bridal party photos are at the same time, and other events from the day are at the same time. That's a good thing. If you have one videographer and this is the way the timeline is set up, you'll have to sacrifice specific memories. One person cannot be in 2 places at the same time.

Creativity Or Safety?

When deciding if you need 1 or 2 videographers, the other question to ask is, how creative do you want your film to be. When you have one videographer, they have to focus on 1 or 2 safe shots during the most critical parts of your day. This is also why you usually can't get the same amount of films with a solo package as you would with a multiple videographer package. But, on the other hand, when you have two videographers, you can get way more creative since you know someone has that safe shot already.

Film Length

This is not going to be universally true, but it is with a lot of studios. If you're looking for a longer film, two videographers are needed. If you're okay with a short film, one videographer may be okay for you. If you want a longer cinematic film, two videographers are probably the way to go. This comes back to getting creative or focusing on safe shots. Wedding days are often jam-packed, and everything runs late. This means with one videographer, and you may have to sacrifice certain things due to time constraints. For example, when a video team arrives at your venue during cocktail hour, they have to set up their audio, lighting, film the detail shots, film shots of the venue, maybe fly a drone, maybe cover a photo session that is happening during this time. This is sometimes difficult to pull off, even with a team of videographers. So if you go with one videographer, just remember they will have to prioritise certain parts of the day over others. This plays directly into how long your wedding film can be. Or should we say… how long your wedding film can be and still be amazing.

Question 5

How do you save on wedding videography?

Accepted Answer

Wedding videographers know that their clients have different budgets and preferences. Most professionals have multiple packages for potential clients to choose from.

So, do your research in advance. Always check out at least a couple of videography studio websites and compare the offers side by side.

Affordable wedding videography could be missing some of the added features available under more expensive packages. Still, you will be getting a professional clip that captures all of the critical wedding moments.

If you don't really understand what each package entails, get in touch with the respective videographer to inquire. When you do, you could also talk about possible additional discounts.

Book Early

The closer the booking date is to your wedding, the more money you'll have to spend on a wedding videographer.

Good videographers tend to get booked in advance.

Waiting until the last minute means you may be incapable of working with the professional that you're interested in. Even if they're available for booking, the chances are that you'll have to spend more on their services than you would have to in the event of booking a few months in advance.

It's a good idea to begin researching affordable wedding videography options when you get an idea about the wedding date.

Some videographers could give you an early bird discount. In addition, booking a few months in advance could help you avoid an eventual price hike as the respective professional build their reputation and becomes in demand or the busy season starts.

Having the same studio handling your wedding photos and videos can help you save some money on both of these.

It's a good idea to seek a studio that offers both. Combined packages tend to be more affordable, and you'll also benefit from the added convenience of having to deal with just one team.

Many videographers also offer photography services and vice versa. When checking out package deals, always compare those to the cost of individual services. In some instances, a package could prove to be more expensive, which is why you should be prepared.

Also, make sure that the terms of the package deal are good enough. For example, you should know exactly how many pictures you're going to get and in what format. You should also be provided with detailed information about the wedding video (how long, what file format, what medium it will be provided on, etc.).

Some studios could charge extra for additional services like photo prints, which will make the package deal less affordable than what you're looking for.

Hire a Younger Videographer

It's always easier if you're working with a professional who is still attempting to establish their position, but you get what you pay for.

Experienced videographers who have tens of satisfied clients are the ones who will charge the most.

This is nothing but natural. These people have invested in their qualifications, their equipment and their experience. When you work with someone who has been in the business for decades, you get somewhat of a quality guarantee.

Young videographers, however, tend to compensate for the lack of experience with enthusiasm and a ton of creativity.

As a result, the outcome can be pretty impressive, and it's not going to cost you a ton of money.

Don't underestimate the potential of young videographers. Choosing that professional for the job is one of the easiest ways to save money and to get a beautiful result at the same time.

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Melbourne, Victorian Resources

About Ask Melbourne

Map of Melbourne