In last week’s blog post, we reviewed all the things to look for in hiring a photographer and while MLE loves a good wedding photo, we’re also suckers for those beautiful videos created by talented videographers. While we understand a videographer isn’t for everyone, it’s definitely a service to be considered when making priorities. But how should you tackle the big decision on which videographer is right for you? Today we're sharing some great insight from Ryan Hinman of Ryan Hinman Films in regards to what to look for when booking a videographer.

Make sure you ask questions before contracting with a videographer. They want to get to know you as much as you should want to get to know them. Never hesitate to request a phone call or meeting to make sure you strike a connection. If after chatting with them you feel like you’re on the same page and could be friends, you’ve probably found the right vendor! There needs to be a level of comfort established right away as your videographer will be there filming all the intimate moments of your big day.

Hinman says, “Obviously you should look for someone you connect with. In terms of your actual wedding day, the vendors you’ll spend the most time with are probably the photographer and videographer. We’re generally at hair and makeup, first look, ceremony and throughout the reception. We see you and interact with you a lot!”

While a great videographer is present for the bulk of the wedding day, MLE believes your videographer shouldn’t be noticeable. It’s extremely distracting when a videographer tries to be front and center to capture the day. This behavior often causes frustration for the bride and groom (and guests) and can take away from the important milestones celebrated throughout the event. Ryan shares in MLE’s sentiments:

“A videographer shouldn’t be a distraction, and the focus should always remain on the couple. A professional will wear respectful attire, not interject themselves into events, and allow things to unfold naturally. A talented videographer shouldn’t feel overly present during the important events like ceremony, toasts, dances, and will capture these big moments in a non-distracting way, from a distance.”

So how does one go about finding a videographer who is both professional, not distracting, and talented? Ryan shares some great advice on this topic, too:

“Find a videographer who you feel you can trust. Ask for references and talk to other couples who booked the vendor’s services as they can give you a first-hand experience of what it was like working with that videographer. Once you decide to hire a professional, have faith in your decision and resist the urge to micromanage. Avoid compiling complex shot lists (which stifles spontaneity and creativity). Don’t expect your videographer to deliver another videographer's style of work, so make sure your attracted to the style of the videographer you hire.”

Ryan also feels strongly about working as a team with other vendors instead of a dictator (one of the reasons we love working with him). Call us biassed but what Ryan shares next is probably the most important advice in MLE’s opinion:

“Having a good understanding of how an event planner operates is crucial! No videographer - or any vendor - should shift around a schedule without the planner’s permission. Nor should a videographer rely too much on anyone else for cues as they have been captured and recorded in the timeline by the planner and dictate exactly what the bride and groom want to unfold.”

We often hear clients say things like “My mom and dad had a videographer and they never watch their wedding video, it seems like such a waste.” To some extent, we understand that! But videography has come a long way! Long gone are the days where videographers deliver a two-hour recap of the event. Rather, a talented videographer will compile all that great footage into a highlight video that’s long enough to cover the important details but short enough to remain fun and interesting. Most videographers also deliver a short “teaser” video which is great for posting on social media. Here’s what Ryan has to say on the topic of video length:

“Don’t expect drawn-out rehashes of your entire wedding day. Wedding videography has really shifted to a more cinematic and photo-journalistic approach of capturing your event. We prefer delivering a tightly edited and moving wedding film as opposed to one long checklist. Wedding videography is more about capturing the emotions of the day and less about just handing off footage that covers the event timeline.”

While a videographer may not be on the top of your vendor checklist, we feel strongly that it should be! Photos are definitely a must-have, but videos also provide a life-long tangible that captures the emotions of the day in a way photography never will. If you can make room in the budget, we definitely think you won’t be disappointed with the decision to hire a talented videographer!