Oftentimes we have couples come to us with lower budgets simply because they didn’t know what wedding videos cost. They just put a random number for video within their budget. You want to make sure that you are getting a quality film, and the saying “you get what you pay for” is very true. So as you consider your budget, go around and request pricing in your area. What you may find is that your budget is a little low. If so, that is okay! Don’t feel as though you have to stick so hard to your budget, especially if you just blindly wrote a random number down or found info in a wedding blog. Simply raise the budget to a reasonable price for your area so you can ensure you are getting someone you can trust.

2. Watch wedding videos that you really like, and consider videographers that do those same things!

We all connect with different things, whether that be editing styles, colors, song choices, etc. So when you are looking for a videographer, find the things that you like and see if those companies are doing those things! Chances are, you aren't going to like your film if you don't like other films the company produces. Are they faster paced or slower? Is there a lot of slow-motion or is it more normal speed? Is it upbeat and fun or slow and romantic? Is there a trendy vibe or a classy vibe? All of these things are important to consider, and the best companies will have a diverse portfolio that showcases their range for all these things. Just be sure you are walking in knowing what you want!

3. Do you trust the company you are hiring?

If you do trust them, then FULLY trust them. Your story will be told better if you give them the creative freedom to run with it and really make your film into the best that it can be! You want to find a company that has similar expectations and vision as you do for the video, and be open in communicating that with them! And if you feel that something is off and you are not connecting with them to develop that trust, then you probably shouldn’t hire them.

4. Does the person you are talking to come across friendly and relaxed?

If so, that is a good sign that they will work well with the photographer and other vendors that are going to be present at the wedding. When there is tension between the vendors, it can lead to unpleasant interactions that sometimes taint the day itself. You want to surround yourself with vendors who care about you and care about your day, not just doing their job. Remember you will spend more time with your photographer and videographer then your friends and family on your wedding day. If you get along well with your vendors before-hand, that usually is a good sign they will work well with others too!

5. Does the videographer you are hiring have a contract and insurance?

This is important because if something happens before the wedding and they lose their gear or their car breaks down or something, you need to know if they will be able to get replacements on their gear and still be able to film your wedding. Knowing a solid contract is in place brings you peace of mind in case of cancelations or reschedules.