Looking for someone to capture your special day? Here's the TNK Visuals guide on how to approach that!
A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion, and hiring someone to capture your special day with all its joy is a wonderful way of ensuring your memories are preserved for years to come. Enlisting the creative talents of a videographer can ensure that the story of your wedding day is told in a professionally edited video. But finding the right videographer can feel overwhelming, so we've compiled this list of things to consider to help you on your journey.
Style
Different videographers have different styles, or aesthetics. What do you have in mind? Are you looking for a documentary-style wedding video? Or are you wanting something that feels a little more.... cinematic? The style of the videographer is important to consider, as it will be clear throughout the finished video. You'll need to check out the videographer's portfolio (this will usually be available on their website, or on a social media channel such as Instagram) to get a feel for their style. This will help you shortlist the videographers whose style aligns closely with your vision.
Here at TNK Visuals, we produce a film that follows the energy of the day, allowing us to impart your story. In our Gigabyte and Terabyte packages, we deliver three main films: a beautiful teaser trailer (this can be shared to social media or kept to yourselves as a way to remember particular moments), a main cinematic highlight film (this features all the highlights from the day such as those key moments - the ceremony, speeches, and party), and lastly, a Behind-the-Scenes documentary. This is a raw uncut version of the day with the best moments included. This way, we are able to capture little moments and conversations that took place, as well as the full ceremony and speeches.
Portfolio & Reviews
Reviews from previous clients will absolutely give you a snapshot of what the videographer is like to work with. You'll be looking for reviews that reference communication and level of professionalism, as well as reviews that identify the quality of the edited finalised video. Of course, the quality of the final video will be evident when you check out the videographer's portfolio, but having that verified is a good thing, particularly if you find yourself unsure of what you're looking for.
You can find our wedding portfolio here: https://www.tnkvisuals.com/wedding-films.
Safety
We're not trying to scare you here, but safety is always key. Your goal is to find a reliable, reputable professional who will add to your special day, not detract from it. Investing time in your search for a videographer is worth it. Utilise social media platforms and avoid relying on paid advertising (keep it organic!).
Prices & Packages
Chances are you have a budget for your wedding. Imagine finding the perfect videographer, but you didn't research / enquire about their prices and found out that you couldn't book them after all. It is so important to research the types of packages that exist, as well as the cost. Knowing what your budget allows for is a power move all by itself, so there's no need to upset all that by not conducting the necessary research.
At TNK Visuals, we have three packages to choose from. In our Gigabyte and Terabyte packages, we utilise two videographers. This allows for greater coverage of the wedding, as well as the added benefit of capturing both perspectives (for example, both bridal and groom preparations, both reactions when walking down the aisle, and more reactions and emotions when speeches are being delivered).
You can find our packages here: https://www.tnkvisuals.com/wedding-packages-pricing.
Equipment
Even if you don't have a working knowledge of the latest videography gear, it is still going to be important for you to know what equipment your videographer works with. Different lenses, for example, produce different results. Does your videographer utilise any lighting equipment? Does your videographer have a drone for aerial shots, as well as the appropriate licensing to fly that drone? It is also in your interest to ask about back-up equipment. Any videographer worth their salt will have back-up equipment in case their go-to fails. It's part of ensuring that your special day goes ahead without any added stress.
Luckily, at TNK Visuals we utilise many tools to enrich the process of capturing your day (we like to be the fly on the wall as much as possible). Integrating the use of professional wireless microphones means we can capture the all-important ceremony and speeches, and we make a point of never relying on the venue's audio solutions. We mic up the spouses-to-be, wedding officiant ( your registrar, priest or celebrant) and any additional speakers to ensure the highest quality audio for your film. This helps us to isolate any unwanted noises, as well as featuring it as a voiceover when putting together your stunning wedding film. We also utilise a three-camera set-up to maximise coverage without getting in your way. Zoom lenses allow us to be close to the action without being on top of you. And yes, we have back-up equipment, which means you don't have to worry about a thing.
Communication
Communicating with a potential videographer is a great way to get to know them. They'll talk you through their process, and you'll be able to get a sense of their personality and style. It is also a great opportunity to discuss any concerns you might have, and you'll be able to gauge more about their professionalism in how they handle your concerns - you need to feel comfortable with them, they're going to be spending a day with your nearest and dearest.
If you find yourself unable to meet in person, consider scheduling a video call or telephone call instead.
At TNK Visuals, we think it is very important to speak to your videographers. We love to meet up with all our couples and see the venue, taking time to understand you both so we can factor your personalities into the film. We do this because it is your film, and it represents a huge part of how you'll remember your wedding day. The more you get to know us and the better we know you, the more comfortable you will feel with us on your day. This is super important. We also have multiple meetings throughout the process, up until the big day; you are never left alone.
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