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

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Boston Videographers Guide

Anyone’s who’s even seen a postcard of Boston knows how beautiful the city is. Whether it’s the Boston Commons, the Hills of Beacon, or a simple brownstone, you want to capture the city’s backdrops on film. For your wedding day, finding the right videographer is essential, and a matter of narrowing down your choices to the right cameraman for your style. Read on for classic tips.

Start searching for your Boston 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.

Filming the whole day.
Unlike Boston wedding photographers, who rely on posed shots and periodic candids, videographers film almost continuously. A good Boston wedding videographer will cover your big day discreetly, so you’re not constantly aware of his presence. Many churches forbid filming during the ceremony (as do some reception sites), so check ahead to avoid surprises.

Styles of wedding videography.
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 3 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 Boston videographers, visit the OurWeddingDay.com Boston Local Vendor Section for a great list of the best Boston filmmakers.

When talking to Boston 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 filming your every move.

-David Toussaint