^22nd Annual

Wedding Expo

January 27, 2008

Julie Bargeski, President, Video Express

ProductionPreserving your wedding memories that will last and be watched for years to come-- how do you decide on the right video Company to capture them? I still remember how difficult it was for me when I was a bride. Equipment, editing, style, digital, DVD-- it is so high tech today. So how do you get your search started?

Fifteen years ago I joined my husband in his wedding video business. We have videoed all types of weddings-- indoor, outdoor, small, large, civil, and religious ones of almost every denomination in the Washington, DC area. I have been through all the technology changes. And through it all I have found there are three main things to look for when choosing a wedding video company, EXPERIENCE, EQUIPMENT, AND HISTORY. Anyone can video your wedding but not anyone can successfully capture the emotions of your day. You want someone who has wedding experience and a good reputation. A friend whom you know may work for a TV station as a cameraman and have a $10,000 camera but that does not mean that he or she will know how to shoot a wedding. Trained wedding videographers know what to look for, when to capture an emotion such as your parents' faces as you walk down the aisle.

For starters, your company should be a member of WEVA (Wedding Events Videographer Association) so that you can be assured that your videographers are professionals in the field. Review the companies work and be sure you like their style and presentation. Some have lots of graphics, or short cartoons. Some use photo inserts and titles. Some conduct more formal interviews. Make sure you are comfortable with the product you are being shown.

Equipment is a big issue today. But, don't get too hung up on it. Just make sure it will meet your needs and reflects your interests. Again someone can have a $10,000 camera but miss all the important aspects of your day. There are a few items, however, that you need to look for. The company should use wireless microphones on the groom, readers, singers, and musicians. Remember that half of the production is sound. What good is reliving your vows if you can't hear them? Your wedding videographer should also be using digital cameras and editing equipment. Everyone should be able to offer you DVD.

Lastly, look for a Company's history. It is best to have a personal interview to see the company for yourself and look over their work. They should show you a promotional video so that you will have a good understanding of what your video would look like if you use their services. Don't be afraid to ask questions-even ones that may seem silly to you. How many years have they been in business? Are they a member of WEVA, other local wedding associations, and the Better Business Bureau? Have they been written up in any publications? Do they have some literature on themselves and their work? Are they covered by insurance? If in doubt, ask to see their certificate of insurance. Ask for letters of recommendations and names of past customers to call if they don't volunteer them. What do they give you to take home-- only a rate schedule or a whole packet of information?

Find out if the majority of their work is weddings or something else, such as corporate.  Remember whatever the company does the most is what it does the best. If you can see the studio, I would check to see that it is organized and neat.  I spoke with a bride once who went to a studio that had tapes in piles everywhere.  She wondered how he kept all the weddings straight. 

All in all, remember that buying a video is a visual and audio product and you must see the work before booking.  Give yourself time to visit about three companies so you can make a sound decision. Your video will be a constant reminder of your wedding for years to come.  Don’t cut corners. Happy Video shopping.