videographer or no videographer, that is the question!

Something I often get asked by clients is my view on whether they should hire a wedding videographer.

Although a wedding photographer is pretty much a given, not all couples feel the need for a videographer for various reasons.

I really believe that it is a personal choice.  My husband and I decided that we would rather spend more of our budget on an amazing wedding photographer than engage a videographer.  To us the thought of being filmed was not appealing and we felt that if we had incredible photos we would be able to relive the day by viewing those and wouldn’t need to watch a video of the day.  That was the right choice for us, but it may not be the right choice for you.

There are a number of things to consider in making your decision and some of these are outlined below.

• Be aware that your ceremony will go past in a blur!  As much as people tell you that and as much as you remind yourself that you need to take it all in, it will be over before you know it.  If you are anything like me you might not even remember saying your vows!  If this is something that will bother you, then perhaps a video is something you should consider.
• If relying on family or friends to capture the ceremony on video – don’t!  Of course if you decide a video is not important to you but you might just ask someone to record it in an amateur way then that’s fine, but don’t rely on family or friends as a substitute for a professional.
• Camera shy?  A good videographer (like a good photographer) won’t be obtrusive, but bear in mind that if you have a photographer and videographer they will be following you around for most of the day.  If this is something that is going to make you uncomfortable then maybe you should limit yourself to one or the other.
• Think about which medium appeals to you the most.  For me personally I know that when I see a beautiful photograph capturing a moment during a wedding ceremony it moves me much more than watching a video of the ceremony.  I don’t know why that is and it is a completely personal thing.  If you are more moved by watching a video than seeing a photo then get a videographer.
• Consider whether there are other reasons for having a video besides giving you a personal record of the day.  As we all know, weddings are not just about the couple getting married but also their families.  Do your parents or grandparents particularly want a video of the ceremony?  Do you have relatives overseas who might not be able to be at your wedding who would like to see a video of it?

If you do decide to engage a videographer I strongly suggest discussing it with your photographer (or vice versa if you happen to choose a videographer first).  They will have worked with videographers before and are likely to have some good recommendations in terms of which ones they work well with and which ones have a similar style to theirs.  It is important that your photographer and videographer are able to work well together and not get in each other’s way – this will ensure that things run smoothly and you end up with photos and video that capture the day in the best way possible.

There are some really talented videographers working in Perth at the moment so if video is something that appeals to you there should not be any issue with finding one whose style you love.