Baltimore Videographers Guide, Baltimore Wedding Guide Advice from OurWeddingDay.com

Bride Sign In
Vendor Sign In

Baltimore Videographers Guide

How to Find a Maryland Filmmaker for Your Wedding

Baltimore’s New England backdrops create an affair to remember. Wherever you get married in this classic town, you want to make sure your wedding’s captured in living color and love-scope. Finding the right videographer is the first step to making a classic wedding film, one that will last a lifetime of repeat viewings. Read on for insider tips.

Start searching for you Baltimore videographer about 9 months’ prior to your big day, and after you’ve picked the site. When looking, ask friends and relatives, as well as other vendors. Prices vary tremendously, depending on the style and size of your wedding, and the type of film you want. Expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000.

Unlike photographers, who rely on posed shots and periodic candids, videographers film almost continuously. A good Baltimore wedding videographer will cover your big day in discreet fashion, so as not to get in your way. Many churches, however, forbid filming during the ceremony (as do some reception sites), so check ahead to avoid surprises.

There are two general types of videography; Photojournalistic (“documentary”) and Cinematic. The first style presents your day in news-like fashion, with an un-edited look that can translate to three hours of film. The second type is more like a motion picture, with heavy editing and more “direction,” and a finished product that’s about 30 to 60 minutes’ long.

When you’re ready to start interviewing Baltimore videographers, visit the OurWeddingDay.com Baltimore Metro Local Vendor Section for a great list of the best Baltimore wedding filmmakers.

When talking to Baltimore wedding videographers, ask to see a few DVDs to get a feel for their overall style. Find out what type of videography he prefers, and go over whether you want color or black and white or both. There are many extras videographers can provide, like creating a montage of “love story” clips from your courtship, piecing together film from pre-wedding parties, even airing the ceremony at your reception site. What you purchase depends on your personal style and budget. Always get references, and contact the Better Business Bureau for complaints.

Before signing the contract, make sure the guy you interview is the same guy who shows up at your ceremony. Find out if you’ll be charged by the hour or the day, and how intrusive the cameras will be. All extras must be specified, so you don’t get billed for something you assumed was free. Finally, make sure you’re comfortable with the person you hire. He’s going to be a “guest” at your wedding, and it’s difficult to look relaxed if you don’t like the man who’s got a camera focused on you.

-David Toussaint