With the rise of consumer cameras and camcorders, nearly everyone is deeming themselves as a photographer or videographer. Almost every family owns their own HD recording device. For this reason, we commonly get asked, “Why should I hire a professional wedding videographer?” Or, more commonly, “Why should I pay that much money when my Uncle John will film the wedding for free?” This is a good question, but I have a number of reasons why hiring a professional is the right way to go. The equipment is not what makes the video. When you pay for your wedding videographer, you’re paying for their art and talent, not their recording equipment. Just like when you buy a Van Gogh, you’re not paying for the paint brush.
Videographers are artists just like any other creative type. They have a style and personality that is represented in their work. When you choose a videographer, you’re most likely choosing them because you like the style of their work. A wedding video is probably one of the most important things you can take with you from your wedding (aside from your life-partner of course.) Like your partner, a video will last forever and will continue to represent the love within your marriage. No other wedding expenses will give you that timeless memory. Not the catering, the venue, the dress, or the DJ. All of those things will be forgotten within a few days of the event.
So, why would anyone choose to not hire a professional wedding videographer to film the most important day of their life?
I understand that most everyone is on a budget. Personally, I do whatever I can to save money. However, if you hand Uncle John a camera and have him stand at the back to record your ceremony straight through, you’ll end up with a product that you won’t want to watch again. Chances are it will be shaky, inaudible, and out of focus. A professional video, on the other hand, will be cinematic and personal. I own a wedding videography business, and it is my goal to create cinematic wedding videos that are engaging to anyone watching them. Not only do they show emotion, but they reflect the feel of the day. According to recent polls, the biggest regret of new brides is that they did not hire a professional wedding videographer to capture their special day. Feel free to check out some of these videos on my website here.
Ultimately, when all is said and done, there is no reason not to go with a professional wedding videographer. You don’t need to hire the most expensive company, but it is important to have someone who knows how to make a cinematic video. This is your day to be a movie star afterall!