Q. Tell me something about videography that is not commonly known?
A. Very few brides know that each second of the video they view of their wedding contains 30 "digital photos"! That is, there are 30 "digital photos" per second of recorded video ! A skilled videographer can extract such digital photos from the video, import them to another software called Photoshop, enhance the photos by removing facial imperfections; double chins, vary the color of the skin, brighten the entire photos and apply many other improvements. After that using an appropriate PhotoSmart printer photos can be printed which are indistinguishable from photos taken with SLR cameras.
When the bride comes down the aisle the photographer has limited time to capture multiple shots. The videographer has 30 such shots per second to chose from until the bride has a desirable expression, etc.
The difference, of the cost to the bride are extraordinary. In Misty Memories Videotaping we offer many such photos free on a CD or we can print photos at a nominal cost. Click on “BRIDES” to see the quality of the photos I am describing.
Q. What about High-Definition "Blu-Ray" DVDs (MPEG-4 AVC or VC-1) vs. regular "DVDs (MPGE2)?
A. The latest technology provides for High-Definition (Blu-Ray) DVDs. I personally believe that considering the extra expense to obtain High Definition DVD and the expense of the Blu-Ray DVD player that one must purchase, it is not , as yet, economically wise to go the Blu-Ray route. If you want to give copies of your Wedding to relatives they or may not have Blu-Ray DVD players. Regular DVDs when shown on HD TVs are as spectacular as any other format you care to name.
Also do not forget very few brides want to see on the DVD clearly every facial imperfection...
Q. I have an individual who can videotape my event free, any suggestions?
A. Please DO NOT. See a friend's video taken by a well intending individual......
Years of experience in videography, quality and sophistication of equipment, price charged for the event, and everything else is SECONDARY to the TASTE of the videographer.....
Also remember PLEASE, it is not always true that "you get what you pay for...." So, just because a videographer charges a lot of money it does not necessarily implies that the video created will be as you expected. I have seen a number of videos created by "professional Videographers" that have bored viewers to death…
Also remember PLEASE, it is not always true that "you get what you pay for...."
Q. When should the Videographer capture appropriate footage ( “Frozen Frames” ) for eventual digital photo album creation?
A. You must schedule time in the same way you do with your photographer. If the photographers are not objecting both the videographer and photographer can do their work at the same time frame.
Q. How can I save money in planning my wedding?
A. There are many ways:
1. Schedule your wedding mid-week. Many discounts are available by Reception Halls, Food Caterers, Musicians, Photographers, Videographers, and others.
2. Create a “Photo Album” using digital photos, as described above.
3. Have an open Bar for only a limited time. You might save your guests from being involve in a traffic accident…
4. Marry around Christmas when churches are usually decorated with flowers.
5. Elope! Discuss with your parents if you elope would they give you the money to put on a home down payment?
How to Hire a Wedding Videographer
Many thanks to Mr. Kris Malandruccolo who's article appeared on www.wedplan.com.
Here are some questions to consider asking your videographer before the hire.
Q. Are you the one who will be videotaping my wedding?
A. Make sure you speak to the person who will actually videotape your wedding. Many larger studios use free-lancers, and it is important to speak with the actual videographer ahead of time to make sure you get everything you want and to make sure you are comfortable with the videographer.
Assess his/her demeanor. How is he/she dressed? Extrovert or introvert? Many videographers come dressed as thought they are going to a baseball game.
Q. How many cameras do you use? Does that mean a second videographer?
A. If you are having "two cameras", then find out if that means a second videographer or just a camera on a tripod. Having a second videographer is more expensive than just a camera on a tripod (usually kept on wide angle). A second videographer can be well worth the extra cost due to the extra coverage you will get and footage can be used to replace shacking footage in one or the other camera.. Be sure to discuss camera placement and any videotaping restrictions ahead of time with your videographer.
Q. What type of cameras do you use?
A. "3-Chip Digital" is the most recent and highest resolution camera. Digital cameras have 530 lines of resolution. Super VHS & Hi-8 cameras (which use analog tape) have 400 lines of resolution and VHS cameras have 230 lines of resolution. The higher the lines of resolution, the better quality picture you will get, but expect to pay more for a videographer who uses 3-Chip Digital cameras.
Q. What kind of lighting do you use?
A. Some videographers use lights on their cameras, others do not. Some videographers will use a stand-alone soft-box light that gives off soft, even lighting. Background lighting at the reception hall will also help the photographer's pictures turn out better and the flash or video light won't seem quite so harsh.
Q. How many and what kind of microphones do you use?
A. Audio quality is just as important as video quality. At the ceremony, have the groom wear a wireless microphone . At the reception, make sure everyone who is giving a toast or blessing is using a microphone; this includes the person who is introducing the bridal party. Be sure to discuss audio placement ahead of time with your videographer.
Q. How do you edit the wedding video?
A. The latest and newest technology is non-linear editing (NLE) (on a computer). Ask how many hours your videographer spends on editing since it will make a difference in the final price. It is not unusual for videographers to spend between 30-40 plus hours on the computer editing a wedding. Expect a price difference (and quality difference) between those who edit non-linear and those who don't.
Q. Can I have my wedding on DVD?
What about HD?
A. DVD is the latest trend in videography. Some videographers can customize their DVDs with multiple chapter stops/scene selection and a customized case with your wedding picture on it. Your wedding video can last for generations without any deterioration when archived to DVD. I believe providing the finished production on DVD is a must-have!
Q. How do you stay up-to-date in the video business?
A. Video technology is an ever-changing field (like the computer field) and professionals need to stay current.
Q. How can I see samples of your work?
A. Be sure you are seeing samples of the actual videographer who will be videotaping your wedding. This is especially important when dealing with larger studios that may have several crews that they send out on the weekend. Some videographers have video clips (called streaming video) on their website where you can view their work while you are on the internet. If possible, try to meet with the videographer before you sign the contract and view actual jobs not just "demos"
Q. What other services or special effects do you offer?
A. This allows the videographer to talk about what else they offer and how they may differ from other videographers. Some examples are childhood/dating photo montage, wedding/honeymoon photo montage, bridal preparations, love story video (the two of you describing how you met, etc.), short-form video, highlight video, recap video, concept video, rehearsal coverage, big screen presentation, etc. This is also a good time to ask the videographer if they use special effects such as black & white, sepia-toned, slow-motion, animation, etc. There are many options to choose from!
Q. What about the contract?
A. When you decide to hire the videographer, ask to see a copy of the contract. Ask how much of a deposit is required and when the remaining balance is due. Make sure everything you want in your wedding video is spelled out. As it gets closer to your wedding day, the videographer should request a "planning meeting" either over the phone or in person. Most videographers are hired six months to one year in advance, so you need to make sure nothing has changed. Ask your videographer if they will attend your rehearsal - some videographers attend, some do not. It should also state when you will get your finished video.
Q. What will you charge to videotape my wedding based on the coverage I am looking for?
A. If you are on a certain budget, let the videographer know that up front. If your budget is flexible, wait to ask about pricing until you have explained to the videographer what you are looking for and after the videographer has talked about skill, equipment and service.. It is hard to put a price on talent unless you view their "actual" work, (not just demos"). Remember, your videographer is creating a family heirloom.
Your Wedding Budget - Establishing Priorities
by Tracie Callihan as appeared in www.wedplan.com
Most of us are taught from the time that we are little not to talk about money. Financial problems are very common in marriage because we fail to communicate well with each other. Establishing a budget for your upcoming wedding is most likely one of your first major financial situations as a couple.
Many couples today are hosting their own weddings and some couples have their parents contributing financially to the upcoming event. When approaching your parents about how much they can contribute to your budget, it is best to not do it as a couple. Talking to your parents yourself doesn't put any one on the spot and everyone can be honest with each other.
Establish what is important. One of the first things you need to do is evaluate what you HAVE to have to make your wedding perfect. For some brides fresh flowers are a must. For others it is having a designer gown. And for some it is throwing the best party with the best food for family and friends. The first thing you need to remember is that you are in charge of your money. Keep track and make sure of your purchases and choices before you invest in them. Make sure everything is in writing and remember almost every service is negotiable. By focusing on what you want and what is important, you can create that dream day. So first you need to figure out what it is that you require to create your ideal wedding.
Consider bridal attire and accessories. Do you want a designer gown or maybe there is a family heirloom gown? You could also buy off the rack and have it altered. Will you have a headpiece, veil, or hat?
Flowers. Must there be all fresh flowers, in season or imported, or will silk arrangements be just as beautiful? You might even choose a combination of both for yourself and the decor.
Ceremony and reception sites. Choosing the venues for your wedding and reception can take a large amount of your budget. Will you use your local church, historical building, outdoor park or a reception hall? This is an area that you can be very creative with. Any place can be transformed with a little imagination and creativity.
Transportation. Hummer limo? Carriage? Antique car? This might not even be something that is a priority for you, so your personal auto will work perfect.
Photos and videography. This is an area that is usually an absolute must for brides. Having photos and a nice video / dvd is something you will always cherish. Do you want digital or traditional photos? Will you get the copyright or negatives? Prices vary wildly on professional photographers so this is an area you will work with in detail, finding the right professional and the right price is worth the extra work! Research and interview several before selecting the right one.
Date and time. Yes, the date and the time of your wedding can make a big difference in how much your wedding can cost. Having a morning, mid-day, or weekday wedding can reduce costs. The off-season for weddings are the months of January, March, April, and October. You have a lot of options when scheduling your date during one of these months.
These are just a few of the many areas to consider when allocating the budget for your big day. Some others are the cake, beauty services, wedding stationery, decor and reception choices. If you outline your priorities, the elements of your perfect wedding will fall into place and you will be able to stay within your budget.
- Tracie Callihan is with We Do! We Do! in Prescott, AZ, and has been a WedPlan Member since Nov 2005
Planning an Outdoor Wedding
byMichelle O'Connor as it appeared in www.wedplan.com
Q: When a bride is selecting an outdoor location for her wedding, what do you suggest to her regarding a bad weather back up plan?
A: There are many lovely outdoor wedding locations - beach weddings, lake front weddings, forest weddings, mountain weddings, garden weddings...the options are endless! With any outdoor wedding, it is vital that the bride and groom work with their coordinator or wedding company to establish a backup plan in the event of bad weather. If the wedding location is on the grounds of a hotel or inn, coordinate ahead of time to have a banquet room ready for you in the event of inclement weather. This option may cost a little more, but it will save you worry and potential heartache later!
Another option is to plan to have only the ceremony outdoors and the reception inside (or inside with an outside portion). In the event of inclement weather, you can simply hold the entire event in the room you planned to have the reception in - without incurring extra costs! This is by far the most "secure" and least expensive way of having an outdoor wedding, and one of the easier backup plans. If your outdoor wedding will be held in an area with no building nearby (or a building too small to hold your guests), such as in a forest clearing or in the garden of a private estate, consider using a tent for the reception. In the event of bad weather, you can move the ceremony and reception into the tent. Be sure the tent is water tight and sturdy!
Whatever backup plan you select, be sure you tell ALL of your wedding vendors (especially those that require lighting and electricity) of your plan ahead of time. They may bring up alternate concerns you have not thought of and can help you solidify a great backup plan. After all, your wedding vendors are professionals, and have likely had experience with this sort of thing before.
Q: Can you give us an example of a wedding you've planned which had to be relocated due to weather and how you worked with the indoor option to create a memorable event?
A: Last January we had an intimate outdoor wedding planned for approximately 55 guests. The bride had her heart set on an outdoor wedding in the mountains in the winter! She loved the lakeview and wanted to bring heaters outside so all could enjoy the atmosphere. That morning it began snowing - and did not stop until late that night! This was a destination wedding so most of the guests were already in accommodations nearby. The bride and groom did not let this spoil their day! They had many gorgeous photos taken outside in the snow, the guests loved it, and everyone enjoyed a lovely ceremony and reception inside with a snowy lake as a backdrop. Both fireplaces were roaring and the beverages flowed. The Lake Arrowhead Weddings staff had a job to do! We had to figure out what to do with all the guests while we moved all the ceremony seats (that were supposed to be outside) after the ceremony to make room for the reception dinner seating and tables! We asked everyone to adjourn to the great room for appetizers (not part of the original plan) while we speedily set up for the reception - the guests didn't even know this wasn't the original plan! Given that the bride had purchased one of our outdoor wedding packages, she didn't even have to worry about plan B. We simply asked her if she liked our plan (which we discussed with her well before the wedding day) and that, in the event of inclement weather, we would just implement it without further distracting her on her wedding day. She was able to sit back and enjoy her day without worrying about what to do about the weather and where to put her guests.
Q: What special advice do you have for outdoor brides in regard to dress, veils, makeup?
A: If you are planning an outdoor wedding in the summer, and you think it will be hot - wear a light gown so that you do not overheat and sweat unnecessarily (not becoming in photographs). If your dress does have a train, be sure to consider what the ground you will be walking over is like. Is it dirt that will turn your train brown? Is it grass? Is the train heavy enough to where the grass might stain it? Using an aisle runner can help with this, but, in a windy outdoor setting, if not secured, the runner will come loose. Be sure to solidly secure your aisle runner before the ceremony if your location is windy. Also, consider consulting a professional makeup artist and your photographer about your makeup plans. The shimmer powder that is so popular today can, if applied too liberally, and photographed in sunlight, produce a slight glare in your photographs. You will also want to use makeup that holds up nicely, even if you do sweat (or "glow") a little. You want your makeup to hold up well during the outdoor sunlit ceremony, and through the reception, without looking caked on or streaking. If your outdoor location may be slightly windy, opt for a veil that can be secured behind your head before you walk down the aisle (or don't wear one at all). You do not want your veil floating in front of your face and moving about during the ceremony. A bride (or officiant, bridesmaid, or groom) swatting at and moving your veil around during the ceremony does not make for elegant photographs.
Q: Do you have any special advice for brides which take a boat wedding package in regard to dress, shoes, decorations?
A: For those brides having a boat wedding, be sure to plan accordingly. It is a good idea to bring along some motion-sickness medication (available over-the-counter), or take some ahead of time if you have a tendency to be affected by repeated motion. If the wedding will be proceeding into the night, be sure to bring a shawl or other decorative piece to help keep you warm. The air is typically colder over water, and as night falls, you may get chilly. You can have an informal or formal wedding on a boat, depending on the time of day and the decor and style of the boat. For more informal weddings during the daytime you may opt for a gown with a shorter train and veil. For more formal evening weddings, you may choose to wear a more embellished gown with a longer train (be sure the train bustles well for ease of dancing later on) and a longer veil. Whatever style your dress, wear shoes that have the look you want, but that are also comfortable! You will be walking and dancing most of the reception. Another option is to have only the ceremony or only the reception on the boat, while having the remainder of the wedding at your favorite hotel, inn or country club.
Q: What's your most popular outdoor venue? What makes that location especially magical for couples?
A: Our most popular outdoor wedding package is our All Inclusive Resort Wedding Package. This package features an exquisite lake front venue at a well-appointed full service resort hotel. Couples can exchange vows on an elegant stage overlooking Lake Arrowhead, surrounded by towering trees and blue sky. Couples may also have an intimate wedding poolside with views of the lake in the background. There are numerous reception banquet rooms to choose from, and a variety of wedding package options. The grand Arrowhead Ballroom, with its stunning crystal chandeliers and oak and brass detailing, makes for an elegant reception. The warm wood tones, mirrored walls, and glass doors that open to an outdoor terrace with a fabulous view of Lake Arrowhead, make the Lakeview Terrace Room a very popular reception choice. This all inclusive wedding package features a stunning atmosphere of blue skies, towering trees, mild temperatures and a pristine alpine lake. Add to that the fact that the wedding packages are truly all inclusive (just bring the dress and rings!) and you have an equation for the "perfect," stress-free wedding day!
- Michelle O'Connor is with Lake Arrowhead Weddings in Lake Arrowhead, CA, and has been a WedPlan Member since Aug 2004.
