TIPS TO HELP FIND A WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER

Writer / Jared Ensminger of 6th Day Films Photographer / Leah Rife

Between Google searches, wedding websites and Instagram posts – it’s overwhelming as you sift through different options in hopes of finding the right wedding vendors.

“I had no idea where to find a videographer,” is a common phrase we hear when meeting with couples and potential clients.

As if that pressure of being inundated with several options isn’t enough, picking your videographer may very well be the most important decision you make when adding to your wedding vendor team. A wedding video is the best way to relive your wedding day years down the road but finding the right videographer for you is crucial to that. Despite the similarities, it’s a bit more complicated than choosing a photographer. With photography, you can determine if someone’s style fits your vision by perusing their Instagram feed. With videography, though, it takes a few films to truly get a sense of the videographer’s style and their potential compatibility.

We understand how daunting this process can be. We’re Jared and Sarah, the husbandand-wife duo behind 6th Day Films – an Indianapolis-based videographer team dedicated to slowing down the blur of your wedding day and creating a treasured film to look back on over the years. To help you in your search, here are a few tips to consider along the way.

TIP 1: KNOW WHAT TYPE OF FILM YOU WANT

The term “wedding video” has evolved tremendously over the last 10 years. What your parents and grandparents think of when they hear ‘wedding video’ is likely very different than what you’re thinking. Consider a few common types of videos you may come across during your research:

The Story Driven Highlight Film - This is a short (5-10 minutes) film that shows different moments throughout the day, pairs it with audio from the day to tell your story and sets it over music that fits your style and story. If you’ve watched a wedding video on Instagram that made you cry, this was likely a story driven highlight film. At 6th Day

Films, this is the style of film we specialize in. Many of our couples say things like, “I like your films because you tell a great story, and it looks like a movie.”

The Music Video Highlight Film - This is a short (5-10 minutes) film that sets moments of the day over music. If you want a simple film that shows sweet and fun moments of the day, but you don’t particularly care about story, this is an excellent option.

The Documentary Style Film - If “I want it this video to feel like “The Office”” has crossed your mind, this is likely the style you’re looking for. This style is typically longer, may include interviews, and feels a bit more raw or unpolished. These films are a great way to truly relive the day.

The “Just the Ceremony” Style Film - If you just want the major moments of the day captured as they happen, this is likely the style for you. This is traditionally what people think of when they think ‘wedding video’ and it is still a popular request for couples choosing their video.

TIP 2: CREATE A LIST

Once you know what type of film you want for your day, begin compiling a list of videographers you want to ask. Asking for referrals from people you trust is a great place to start. Your planner, photographer, venue, friends, family and coworkers may all have great experiences with wedding videographers they can refer you to. And, as a bonus tip, when a photographer suggests a videographer, this means they know how to work well together and help your day run smoothly. That doesn’t mean you have to abide by their recommendations, but it could be a great starting point. If someone you follow on social media posts their film and you like the style, follow the tags to see who created it for them. A Google search or wedding website may also be helpful if referrals haven’t provided a solid list.

We recommend starting with a list of five to seven videographers. Any more than that can be too much to manage.

TIP 3: CHOOSE A STYLE THAT FITS

After compiling a solid list, begin reviewing each videographer’s work (their website and Instagram are great places to start). Every videographer has a style or vibe that is present in every film. If you like the way you feel when watching their work, it’s a good indication they’ll be a good fit for you! Sometimes it’s hard to quantify what you like about certain films as there are several technical, emotional and style factors that come into play. We recommend trusting your eyes and your heart in this part of the process. Start setting up times to reach out to the videographers that best match the style you’re hoping to achieve.

TIP 4: SET UP AN INITIAL MEETING

Reach out to the videographers in order of your prioritized preferences and determine their availability. If an incredible wedding film is high on your priority list, we recommend reaching out as soon as possible (for context, we’re currently receiving inquiries for 2024 weddings). If they’re available, request an initial meeting. We know this step can feel overwhelming, but to us, it’s a crucial step. For every wedding we take on, we want to make sure we’re the right fit for the couple. When selecting your videographer (and photographer), it’s important to remember that you’ll be spending more time with them on your wedding day than your spouse, so it’s important that your personalities mesh well. Setting up this call will help you get a better sense of what packages, pricing and services they offer, as well as their personality.

TIP 5: MEET (AGAIN) BEFORE THE WEDDING

One step in working well with a videographer is scheduling time to meet in person as you approach your wedding day. This will allow you to talk through your wedding day timeline, your story and what you’re hoping for in your film. Having clear expectations, a plan and a process to get there is crucial to making your wedding day as stress-free as possible.

TIP 6: TRUST THE VENDOR ON YOUR WEDDING DAY

You’ve done your homework, gone through the process, had the meetings and now your wedding day is here! It’s time to relax and enjoy your day. Trust your vendors to do their job and soak in every moment.

Your wedding day is going to be a blur. No matter how many people tell you that, you really don’t understand it until you’re living it. The best way to combat the blur is by being present, intentional and grateful on your big day. Do everything you can to eliminate stress – that can start by trusting your vendors. Believe that your team has your best interest in mind and is doing their part to create the perfect day for you!

We hope these tips help you along the way! Knowing what you want and where to find it is half the battle. Our wish for every couple is to find the videographer that best fits their needs and dreams. Best of luck on your search!

You can find 6th Day Films at 6thdayfilms. com, on Instagram at @6thdayfilms, or by email at jared@6thdayfilms.com.