Ten Questions to Ask A Wedding Filmmaker

What to ask before you hire a Wedding Videographer.

Finding the right wedding videographer can be difficult. Here’s a guide of 10 questions to ask your videographer to help you pick the best team for your day!

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1) How long have you been filming weddings?

I’ve been filming weddings for a little more than 10 years. This is an important question to ask to make sure you are hiring someone with expertise in live events. You want to make sure you work with someone with good, clear communication through out the planning process. This way you know you will be happy with the final product!

2) How many cameras do you use?

When I am filming by myself I use three cameras for the ceremony and two for the reception. That way I have multiple angles to cut to if someone walks in front of the camera. For every other event I film i.e., getting ready, portraits, cocktail hour, I use one camera. If I have a second filmmaker with me it gives me more angles for the important events!

3) Who will be filming our wedding?

I do! When you book a wedding with me I will be at your wedding as the lead filmmaker. If you are also getting an additional filmmaker I have a network of other professional filmmakers to reach out to that I have worked with before. Once they are secured for your date I will update you with who will be accompaining me to your wedding. This is a very crucial question, especially for larger companies, because the bigger the company, the more people it may employ. You also want to ask if you can meet the person shooting your wedding if it isn’t the person responding to your inquiry.

4) How do you protect my footage?

Immediately, carefully and multiple times! Once I get home from your event, I save your footage on multiple drives in case of drive failure. I also back it up to Google Drive in case of fire. Finally, I do not delete your footage from my cards until I have completed editing your wedding.

5) Do you have backup personnel and equipment?

Yes! I know several videographers that we can reach out to in case of an emergency. I also carry backup audio recorders and cameras in case of malfunction and always have more batteries and cards than I actually need.

6) How long is the final film(s)?

For me, it depends on the package you select. Every package comes with a full ceremony edit and a highlight of different lengths. Some packages come with additional films like full speeches.

7) Can I add extra hours?

Of course you can! You can add them beforehand or on the day of your wedding. I will also check to see if you want me to stay later, about 15 minutes before my scheduled end time. Don’t be afraid to say yes! I want to make sure I film everything you want me to capture!

8) Do you charge travel fees?

Travel is included in the collection unless it is a destination wedding outside of New England and New York.

9) How do you choose the music you will use?

I have to license the music that I use. That being said, I have several websites that I can license music from. I listen to the music I can license regularly and pick music based on the feel of your day. If you would like to have a little more say in what music I choose I can create a playlist that I can share with you that I think fits the vibe of your day.

10) How many weddings do you film a year?

Starting in 2023, I will only be taking 15 weddings max. This way, I can give each couple the time and attention they deserve. As a result, it also helps me not rush through your video and allows me to send out a film I am proud of.

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Image 1- Jessica and Matt's Vendor Team

Venue: The Mansion at the Hellenic Center 
Photography: Lindsey Mae Photography
Videography: Still Water Wedding Films
Hair and Makeup: The Artists' Hair and Makeup
DJ: DJX Studio
Florist: Evan's Flowers
Caterer: Vinwood Caterers
Dress: Alexandra's Boutique
Suits: Men's Warehouse
Transportation: MBT Worldwide

Image 2- Heather and Justin's Vendor Team

Venue: Wannamoisett Country Club
Photography: Chorale Miles Weddings 
Videography: Still Water Wedding Films
Hair and Makeup: Bella Rose Beauty RI
DJ: DJ Pete Productions
Florist: WR Designs and Decor
Cake: Silver Spoon Bakery
Dress: Alexandra's Boutique
Suits: Tux Towne
Transportation: Experience Rhode Island Tours