Top 10 Questions to ask a Videographer when considering their services.
by Pacifica Video Productions

1) How long have you been in business?
Experience is everything, usually a videographer with a minimum of 3 seasons under his/her belt will know the timing of a wedding day. Timing is everything when shooting a wedding, being at the right place at the right time will allow for better creative shots and angles.

2) What equipment will be used to film and edit my wedding?
When interviewing a potential videographer always ask them What equipment they use to film and edit your special day. Everyone will tell you that their format or equipment is the best there is, do not take anyone's word for granted. Take down the brand/model of their camera and editing system and read up on it on the web. A few minutes spent researching the web will allow you to separate the amateurs from the pros. Also make sure that the equipment brand and model is specified on the contract.

3) How much videotaping of the day will you be doing?
For a full day where the videographers starts at the groom, then the bride, religious venue, and the reception party. The Coverage should be anywhere between 2-3 hours of RAW footage. The final product will be edited down to the client's preference (usually about 1hr to 1hr20min).

4) Until what time does the videographer stay?
Negotiate the start and end time before you sign the contract. Most videographers leave right after the bouquet toss or the sweet table. Often friends let loose after this time and would be nice to have on video.

5) Who will be videotaping my wedding day?
Some companies subcontract videographers. Find out in advance who will be videotaping your day, make sure to see some of his/her work, make sure to meet them before hand and MAKE SURE they have experience. It would be wise to know in advance who will film your day.

6) Lighting at the reception?
Many of the high-end industrial cameras are very light sensitive and don't require the reception hall to be lit up like a football field. Read question 2 above.

7) How many DVDs are included in my package?
Make sure you know exactly what you are getting as an end product. If you are only getting one DVD ask how much the extras will cost you.

8) References?
If you are hiring a professional wedding videographer they should be somewhat known locally. Ask around! Ask your caterer, your florist etc. Surely if they have been around for a while someone in the wedding industry you have hired should a least have heard of them.

9) Dress Code?
The last thing you want is someone at your wedding reception dressed as if they are going to the park. DEMAND the videographer to be dressed appropriately (Slacks and a shirt, usually dark colors as not to stand out) for the event.

10) If there is anything we don't like in the editing can we change something?
The real professionals in the industry will give you a preview of your edited wedding day. This will allow you to review and change anything you don't like beforethe DVDs are finalized. You'll pay a little premium for the videographers offering this extra service but in the end you will walk away with a product you are 100% satisfied with.

Pacifica Video Productions