Hiring a wedding videographer is hard because you're buying something that doesn't exist yet. You can't see your film before you book — you're trusting someone to make it. Here's how to choose well, from someone who does this for a living.
I'll be honest even where it doesn't benefit us. We'll either be the right fit for you or we won't, and a good decision helps you either way.
Watch full films, not reels
A 15-second Instagram clip tells you almost nothing. Anyone can cut a pretty montage. Watch two or three full wedding films start to finish. Do they feel like real days? Can you hear actual vows and toasts? Do you get a sense of who the couple is? That's the difference between a storyteller and someone who collects pretty shots.
Ask exactly what's included
"Full-day coverage" means different things to different people. Does it run from getting-ready through the exit, or is it eight hours with overtime fees after? Are revisions included? What's the real turnaround time? Get the specifics in writing before you fall in love with a highlight reel.
Ask how many weddings they book a year
Someone filming 50 weddings a year runs a very different operation than someone filming 15 or 20. Neither is automatically better, but it affects turnaround, personal attention, and how much creative energy goes into your film. We cap our calendar on purpose — it's why every film gets real attention.
Get on a call
You're inviting this person into one of the most personal days of your life. Talk to them first. A great videographer who makes you uncomfortable will produce worse results than a good one you feel at ease around, because comfort on camera is most of the game.
Red flags
No full films to show. Vague pricing with surprise add-ons. No contract. Wildly fast turnaround promises that sound too good to be true. And anyone who won't get on a call before taking your deposit.