It is an awesome responsibility to provide couples with high quality video production services – something that should not be taken lightly.  For the professional wedding videographer its not just a job – its a passion.

Throughout my 28 years of providing videography services to businesses, government agencies, nonprofits, schools, churches and individuals – some of my most memorable moments have been at wedding ceremonies and receptions.  The tears of joy when a father and mother watch their loving son or daughter ceremoniously leave home and began a new life with another; those tense moments when it comes to exchanging of vows, lighting the unity candle and their first kiss as husband and wife – are all very special and should be captured by a videographer who is not only professional and experienced – but most of all – passionate about capturing it all on camera.

The videographer and photographer who has a passion for weddings and for people are always learning, continuously discovering ways to improve – utilizing both traditional and modern-day methods and tools, ideas and techniques which will result in a production that we consider “excellent.”

There are those who possess the basic skills to point a camera and record video.  But a truly passionate professional will have the talent to create a masterpiece which you’ll be proud to share with family and friends for years to come.  I’m often reminded of a testimonial I received several years ago from a newlywed:

“When my wife and I saw the DVD we were very pleased to say the least. The quality is good and the features we requested were included.  My wife has watched the video at least 20 times.  It is so well done that we will be proud to have this as a record of the big day for the rest of our lives.”

Art which is created just for the sake of money is temporary.  We find it in landfills,  hidden away in storage lockers and in basements all over the world.  Conversely, that art which is created from the soul will find its rightful place in history books, our great museums and most of all – in our hearts – to be cherished and admired for generations to come.

When searching for a videographer, photographer, cake designer, wedding planner, florist or professional decorator – choose those who possess all of the necessary equipment, skills and experience to create a high-quality product.   But most importantly – those who are passionate about the creative process and who have your best interest at heart.

Although I could probably list many more – here’s five (5) tips each producer should seriously consider when editing wedding and/or event videos.

Tip Number One:

Pre-planning is very important.  Plan for the final result before and during the entire shoot.  A professional videographer, whether the actual editor or not, will record the event with the final product in mind.

Its been said that the best editors make good shooters.  Since I edit the majority of the footage that I tape, whether its for myself or someone else, I approach each project with a vision of the final product.  Most artists have a vision of what the final print will or should look like before they approach the canvas.  The same applies to video.  And although you may not always have the luxury of a prepared script and/or story board – you should always begin with the end in mind.

Tip Number Two:

Multi-cam video switcher

If utilizing two or more cameras to tape the same wedding ceremony or event, its suggested that you start each camera simultaneously.  This is especially important if each camera is isolated from the others.  In some situations where multiple cameras are used – you will have the luxury of feeding each camera into a master recording deck via a video switcher.

For those who do not have the convenience of a multi-input video switcher – starting each camera in “record mode” at the exact same moment will save a great deal of time and grief in post-production.  Its in post-production where most of the work is performed and synchronizing the video from each camera can sometimes be very challenging – especially if one or more of the cameras stopped recording during the event.

Its the responsibility of the director, producer or production manager to insist that each camera operator keep the camera rolling (except for tape or media changes) during the entire wedding ceremony, speech or main presentation.

Tip Number Three:

Log the footage from each video tape, hard drive or memory device based on what occurred in the field.  And while this is a detail that each editor must work out based on individual preferences – I find it helpful to log raw footage based on which camera it originated from (example, Camera #1, #2, etc) or the particular view that the camera was assigned to capture (example, b-roll camera, bride’s camera, groom’s camera, wide shot camera, etc).

Logging the footage and any separate audio source (such as from a CD, hard drive, memory device or digital audio recorder) is key to a successful and stress-free edit session.  Assembling together all of the components for the final edit is like a baker who gathers all of the ingredients together for a cake or loaf of bread.  If you miss any of the key ingredients – the final outcome might not be acceptable.

Tip Number Four:

Take time to create and gather graphics, photos and other on-screen components that serve to enhance the final production.  For 99% of the videos we produce, we normally create – at minimum – an introduction and exit.  Additionally, we also have the ability to incorporate on-screen titles,  company logos, still photos and PowerPoint slides.  Take time and make sure all of these necessary components are readily available before starting the post-production process.  And above all, especially when creating on-screen titles and ending credits, double check for spelling errors.  If in doubt, check with the event organizer, bride and/or groom about spelling variations, fonts, colors and special graphics  that should be used.

Spelling of names can vary greatly.  For example, if the printed wedding program lists the maid of honor as Johnny and you think it should be spelled – Johnnie – make an inquiry.   Its better than having to re-edit, re-render and re-burn the final DVD(s) due to a spelling error.

Tip Number Five:

If at all possible, seek the assistance and advice of a second set of eyes.  Although every professional editor will check and re-check their work for accuracy, creativity and flow – we all make mistakes.  Ask at least one other if not 2 or 3 people to view the final production before you make the master and final-edited copy.  And while you’re not attempting to re-edit the entire project from beginning to end – its always good to seek the opinion of others.

You should always strive for excellence.  And for those who are truly compassionate about their work – you may soon have more assignments than you can handle.

American Video Productions

Despite what it sounds like, this is a serious matter. Your wedding day is a special moment in your lives and you deserve the best of everything. You deserve the best cake, tuxedo, dress, meal, decorations and limo. And after its all gone, when the smoke clears and the guests have returned home, the day will be like one of those perfect dreams that you just can’t seem to recapture in your memory bank.

But never fear – you have the photos and video. Right?

How much should you pay for your wedding video? That’s something you must decide, based on your budget. But the costs could range from $600 to $6000. And you shouldn’t view it as an expense – its an investment. An investment that, unlike the cake, decorations and limo, will pay a life-time of dividends. Your wedding video, when professionally and properly produced, will capture the most important moments of your day – moments that you’ll cherish for years to come. And much like that perfect dream – its almost impossible to recall every moment of your special day. And photos alone cannot do it true justice. An experienced and professional videographer – one who does not compromise on quality – can cost from $1,500 to $3,000 or more. But its well worth it.

How much does it cost the videographer to produce a high quality wedding video? Most professional videographers bring a great deal of experience and broadcast-quality equipment to bear. It is not uncommon to find a videographer who has invested from $3,000 to $20,00 per camera, hundreds in microphones, tripods and post-production gear – not to mention the time committed to on-going training and education. I’m not referring to the part-time warrior who holds a full time job and one day decides to purchase a $300 camera from Best Buy or Walmart and decides to shoot weddings on weekends to earn a few extra dollars.

If at all possible invest in the full-time videographer who has a proven track record – one who has invested quality time and a substantial amount of capital into broadcast-quality cameras and support gear. At the end of the day you must decide on whether you’re willing to sacrifice quality for the cheap warrior or invest in a professional that has a track record of delivering a quality production over a period of years.

American Video Productions

A wedding video, in my opinion, should tell a story. Not only should it chronicle the actual wedding day – ceremony and reception – but it should also tell the rest of the story. The wedding DVD is a family heirloom – an historical document that future generations can appreciate and share with their children.

In addition to adding it as an extra chapter on your DVD, the “birth-to-engagement” photo montage can also be viewed during the rehearsal dinner. And many couples will elect to play it on the wedding day – just before the wedding ceremony or at some point during the reception.

Traditionally the photo montage include pictures of the bride and groom, from the time of their birth and early childhood, school experience and throughout the engagement. Its basically a creative “slide-show” (documentary) of their lives set to their favorite music. In addition to photos, the montage can also include mementos of significant milestones in your lives as well as video clips.

The wedding DVD should tell your story – the story of your lives. You’ll be glad you chose to produce the montage and your children and future generations will thank you for it.

The sample clip below is the photo montage of Tracy and William. In addition to utilizing birth-to-engagement photos, it also includes video footage from their engagement photo shoot at Hemisphere Plaza in San Antonio, TX.

In addition to a grand procession in her horse-drawn carriage, the bride’s arrival to the wedding ceremony is accompanied by bagpipes, a sword arch and a variety of festival characters (all dressed in Renaissance-period costumes).

This particular YouTube clip is a condensed version of the wedding ceremony produced by Bruce Blackwell of American Video Productions:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQSxRA3BRT4

The Love Story is basically “your story” – a short and meaningful account of your lives together as a couple.  It’s like a mini-documentary – told in your words (on-camera) – about how you met, your favorite moments together, most memorable events and your vision of the future.

We recently produced a Love Story for Christina and Ray where they shared some of their funniest and memorable moments as a couple.  The initial interview included the two of them together as they shared some of their favorite past-times, how they met and what their most immediate plans were for the near future.  We later interviewed them separately so that they would have an opportunity to talk about their deepest feelings for the other partner and their own personal vision for the long-term.

Additionally, Christina and Ray, also added coverage of the bridal shower, parent, family and friend interviews, video coverage of the wedding rehearsal, a birth-to-engagement photo montage, wedding-guest interviews, the wedding and reception.  Their final video package, in full-non-compressed quality consists of 3 DVDs.  The package they chose (Our Ambassador Package) comes with 12 DVDs.  Thus – their final package will consist of 36 total DVDs.

If you have time and the opportunity – creating a Love Story can be a very valuable addition to your wedding DVD.  Including components such as the Love Story, parent and guest interviews, etc – can go far beyond the usual wedding video – its like having your own wedding movie – a “comprehensive” and detailed account of your life.  And your children, grand children and future generations will thank you.

For all of your wedding video needs – American Video Productions.

Christina and Ray – Love Story – at YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPfjGPNdzFU.

The birth-to-engagement montage include photos of the bride and groom from birth and is a brief, historical document, usually in chronological order with the couple’s favorite music in the background.  Many couples will request a DVD copy of the birth-to-engagement photo montage to present during their rehearsal dinner or include in their wedding invitations.

The other and 2nd most-requested montage is the wedding-day slide show which include key photos of the bride and groom preparing for the day, arrival at the church and reception, shots of the wedding ceremony, family, wedding party and highlights of the reception.

With special effects, a little creativity and properly placed music, a well-produced photo montage is a positive addition to any wedding DVD.

American Video Productions can produce a photo montage for your wedding rehearsal, to include in your invitations and ultimately in your edited DVD.  We’ve produced high quality and affordable wedding videos since 1982.  Email us at: weddings@AmericanVideoProductions.net or call toll-free: 888-433-6554.

Whether its basic highlights lasting only 5 to 10 minutes or a complete 2 to 3-hour video which covers every minute of your party – you will be glad it was videotaped.  And your children and grandchildren will thank you also.

The basics to remember about the reception video, generally speaking, is to keep it relatively short and simple.  When I first started in the wedding video and photography business 27 years ago I would hand the newly-weds a 2 to 3 VHS set of their wedding which covered every second of the wedding and reception.  One of the remarks I would often get is: “The video was great – but – it was too long.”   I would literally keep the camera(s) rolling from the moment the couple arrived at the reception venue and until there final departure some 4 to 5 hours later – and most of that footage was included in the final-edited master video tapes.  Not necessary!

I learned very quickly that shorter is usually better and more entertaining. You can only watch a limited amount of dancing.  After about 2 to 3 hours it becomes a little overwhelming for most.  That’s why we cover a limited amount of general dancing and key areas, which are: the couple’s first dance, farther-bride dance, groom-mother dance, toasts, special presentations, cake cutting, garter and bouquet toss, dollar dance (limited), and other special entertainment segments (such as mariachis at quinceaneras).

Another item that many couples request are “guest interviews.”  First, convincing people to speak on-camera at a wedding reception can be challenging.  We’ve videotaped weddings where hardly no one wanted to speak on-camera and in other instances we’ve had to limit comments to 3 to 5 minutes because so many people were standing in line to share their well-wishes and advice for a successful marriage.  Second, in the post-production process great care must be taken when deciding who ‘not” to include in the final edit.   There have been weddings where ex-boyfriends/girlfriends/spouses wanted to share words that are not appropriate for the family heirloom.  Also, we’ve had instances where the parents of the bride and groom, relatives and close friends expressed words that were not very family-friendly.

For the most part, video coverage of the wedding reception is key to having a complete wedding-day package that future generations, close friends and relatives will be proud to view for years to come.

American Video Productions (http://www.americanvideoproductions.net/) has been producing videos for weddings, receptions, rehearsal dinners and other events since 1982.  Visit our web site to view sample video clips, learn more about our services and read testimonies of others who have utilized our services.  You may call us toll free at: 888-433-6554.

When you invest in video for your ceremony you’re investing in a family heirloom that can be enjoyed by literally thousands of people for the next several decades.  And you want to choose a videographer that is experienced and one with a strong track record of producing high quality wedding videos.

How many cameras do you need?  I would suggest at minimum – 2.  One camera can be used as a wide shot with a view of the entire wedding ceremony and the 2nd camera can be used for close-up shots of the bride and groom, bridal party and audience.  In post-production footage from both cameras can be creatively edited together to tastefully tell your wedding-day story.  Prior to the wedding, and especially if you have 2 camera operators, one camera can record the groom, best-man and groomsmen as they prepare and the other camera can videotape the bride and bridesmaids.

If your budget allows, 3 to 4 cameras would be ideal.  This way every moment of the ceremony will be recorded and from many different angles and viewpoints.

When we videotape a wedding we capture the “entire” ceremony from start to finish – and that’s what you’ll see on your final DVD.  And with the use of wireless microphones and/or digital voice recorders you will hear the vows, speeches, prayers and poems with professional clarity.

Don’t be like many other couples I’ve met through the years who, after the wedding is over state: “We should have videotaped it.”

American Video Productions has been producing videos  with broadcast-quality cameras since 1982.

American Video Productions

http://www.americanvideoproductions.net/

You might get someone to videotape your wedding and/or reception for $200 – but please beware.  If someone offers you a new Mercedes for $5000 – what is your first reaction?  Is it stolen?  Does it have an engine and transmission?  Why are you selling me a $50,000 Mercedes for $5000?

The same type of hesitation should be the norm when someone offers you a broadcast-quality video of your wedding and reception for less than $500.  “You get what you pay for.”

Occasionally we offer special deals to fill open dates or to promote a new service.  But whether you’re paying full or half price – we always provide a high-quality service.  That being said – it’s almost impossible to continually provide high quality productions and earn a meaningful profit when we are required to cut our rates.

For those photographers and videographers who are in business full time, there are many factors to consider when setting rates.  Unlike the “weekend warrior” (the person who has a full time job and only provide services on the weekend to earn “extra” money) we must consider the following overhead costs: equipment purchase and maintenance, advertising, insurance, business-related taxes and fees, personnel costs, space rentals and utilities, etc.  We utilize 3-chip, broadcast-quality video cameras on each shoot.  Our cameras range in price from $3,000 to $20,000.  If we are utilizing 2 to 3 cameras plus support gear (wireless microphones, digital recorders, tripods, lights, edit system, etc), that represents a potential investment in your wedding video of $10,000 to $60,000.  And after the wedding is over we spend several hours in post-production (editing), painstakingly creating a high-quality video DVD with menus and chapters.

Sometimes being the low-priced videographer can also work against us.  If I’m offering 4 hours of wedding video coverage for $200 and every-other videographer in town charge between $800 and $2100 – what does that say about the quality of my services?  Very seldom does cheaper mean better or even equal to what is considered “quality.”

Several years ago, when I first started providing video production services, I would sometimes offer my services at a very low rate as compared to other videographers providing similar services with similar equipment.  And then wondered why some of my bids, although they were the lowest, were not accepted – especially by government agencies and major corporations.  The question they were asking: “Why is it so cheap?”  The assumption was – if it’s cheap then it must not be “quality” – or – “this bidder does not understand the full scope of our project.”  Thus, I learned the hard way, and very soon, that being the lowest bidder is not always the best strategy.  The wise strategy: be the “best” not the “cheapest.”

Since starting this business in 1982 our goal has always been to provide a high quality service at an affordable price.  We’re not the lowest-priced or highest, but we’re very-much concerned about “quality.”  More often than not, quality and profits are compromised when you try to offer services at “cut-rate” pricing.

For those on a strict budget – ask the provider if they offer monthly payment plans.  But don’t compromise on quality.  It’s your wedding day and you deserve the best when it comes to photography and video.

American Video Productions

http://www.americanvideoproductions.net/

888-433-6554