FAQ

Q. Why hire a pro?

A. The fact that you are here looking suggests that you already know the value of a professional video. However, it seems like this question is expected on an FAQ page, so here is the short answer. No matter how well meaning a friend or relative may be when offering to video your day, there simply is no way the average video enthusiast can produce the type of video we do. Ask yourself, why am I hiring a professional photographer, florist, caterer, or DJ? Because, for your once in a lifetime event, quality matters in all of these areas.

Q. Can all professional videographers deliver a high quality video?

A. Unfortunately, No. Professional means that you charge for your work. Like any other line of work, some people are simply better than others. We (of course) think that we deliver an outstanding video, but I can not emphasize enough how important it is to see a sample for yourself and make sure that the style of the videographer is what you are looking for.

Q. How can video cost as much or more than photography? After all, photography takes more time and equipment.

A. This is sometimes hard to explain to someone that has never been involved with professional video. I emphasize the word professional because when many people think of video, all they have to compare to is the home video that they have done themselves, or a bad amateur wedding video they have seen. When done professionally, video takes far more time and every bit as much equipment as does professional photography. Video just has a perception, or should I say misperception, of being something that Uncle Charlie can do while those same people have the perception that only a professional photographer can take wedding pictures. In fact an amateur can produce amateur wedding photographs just as an amateur can produce an amateur wedding video.

I am in no way knocking professional photography. I believe that every couple deserves both. After all you can’t hang your video above the fireplace, but ask your fiancé or your father if they would rather see photographs of the Super Bowl, or watch it live.

Q. How important is two MANNED cameras at the ceremony?

A. Without an operator, you are left with a static view from an un-manned camera. We have found, that with two experienced camera operators communicating via wireless headsets, we are able to capture various angles and perspectives as well as close-ups. This results in a finished video which has the appearance of having been shot with more than two cameras. We also use a third and sometime forth camera from stationary positions if the layout of the church calls for it. This additional footage is usually only used in small quantities but is invaluable when both main shots become blocked.

Q: What makes a great wedding video?

A: An excellent video will have these attributes:

• EMOTION - Only by seeing samples can you feel it. This is where we feel we excel. This makes a good video a great video!

• VIDEO - Clear high contrast images with accurate color reproduction.

• AUDIO - Quality audio comes from careful preparation, as well as quality wireless microphones and recorders.

• EDITING - Captivating scenes without excessive graphics or special effects that distract the viewer.

Q. Will the video taping be obtrusive or interfere with my wedding?

A. Absolutely not. Most of our clients remark that they didn't even notice us. We will never use artificial light during the ceremony. We use wireless microphones and discrete mini disc recorders to capture the audio.

Q. How do you dress?

A. We dress appropriately for a wedding. We wear all black dress slacks, shirts, and blazer or suit coat, so we blend into the background as much as possible.

Q. Is it really necessary for you to attend my rehearsal?

A. We feel that a wedding is too important for us not to. Even in the same church, ceremonies can vary significantly. We feel that in order for us to know what will be happening at YOUR wedding, we must attend the rehearsal. This time does NOT count toward your package time.

Q. What type of equipment do you use?

A. We use only professional grade equipment. We use Sony 3-chip broadcast quality cameras, selected especially for their low light and audio capabilities. We use only UHF (not VHF) wireless microphones with multiple frequencies to choose from. This insures us that we can get crystal clear audio without the concern of interfering with the church system.

Q. Do you have backup equipment?

A. Yes.

Q. Can we pick our own music?

A. Yes, however we do require a selection without lyrics for the ceremony portion of a highlights video. We will work with you to select music that fits your taste.