FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Should we have our wedding (or other significant event) recorded on video?
Emotions and personalities get recorded on video in ways that still photography cannot capture. Please don’t get us wrong on this – we are not suggesting you forgo hiring a professional photographer. Photography does a great job of capturing images and providing individual portraits. Video captures the voices, the “I do”, and the sounds of the first dance.
Our friend has a camcorder, so why would we need to hire a professional?
You can have a friend or family member do this for you, but will it be interesting to watch and to listen to when it’s finished? Will it be free from shakes, and will it be in focus with correct brightness, contrast, and color grading? If you have a friend or family member do this, make sure they have wireless microphones, tripods, good cameras, and the ability to make a logical presentation of well composed and focused images.
Isn’t professional-quality wedding and event videography expensive?
Many people will spend well over $2000 for professional photography, and we aren’t suggesting that anyone forgo photography. We also recognize that reception venues (place, catering, cake, DJ, etc.) are also very expensive. With the exception of the pictures, rings, and each other, what else will last? Memories. Is there a better way to capture the sights and sounds of that special day? With videography you will see and hear the emotions, the preparations, walking down the aisle, the “I do”, and the first dance.
We are priced very competitively. For most two camera weddings, and one camera at the reception, will cost under $1000 ($950 for 1 hour prep, 1 hour ceremony, 2 hour reception, fully edited on 3 DVD-widescreen packages. 3 video segements are included: Highlights, Ceremony, Reception). Additional features will add to that. Please request a quote.
For other events please request a quote.
How can we ensure the best video quality?
Professional videographers use modern cameras that digitally encode images and sound. Using at least two cameras for the wedding ceremony and most other events is generally needed to get good coverage in case one view is blocked by guests, party members, photographer, or anything. Also, the story is much more interesting when there is a good mix of closeup, medium, and wide shots. During the ceremony, the cameras are placed on tripods or monopods to get the most stability.
The editing process is also a key element of quality for the finished production. Memories4Ages uses the latest editing software and high-end computing platforms to produce the finished video. A skilled editor is needed to make good clean transitions, and to mix the video footage and sound, and to have overall continuity. Sound is at least 50% of video production! Editing can often take from 10 to 20 hours of editing time per hour of footage shot.
Will the cameras and gear along with the videographers ruin the atmosphere?
Generally, we work without moving around very much during the ceremony to get our shots. We try hard to be the “fly on the wall” without being noticed. We want everyone to be comfortable around us and pretend that we are not even there. We generally do not have to add any lighting (no camera flashes!), but may occasionally need to utilize camera and stand lighting at receptions. We also dress according to the occasion.
What if you can’t do my event?
We know many other videographers in the area, and can provide recommendations for their services. We have different styles and price schedules. We want you to be satisfied with the results, no matter who provides the service!
Do you interview guests at my reception?
If interviews are not requested, they will not be done. We prefer the cinematic style approach. If you request interviews they will be done tastefully, and my be incorporated as a voiceover.
Will you attend the rehearsal?
Yes. It is the best way to know what the setup will be, and to meet the members of the bridal party, their families, and all that are involved with the wedding.
