How to book a Videographer (from a bride)
I am Taylor Thompson, an intern at Jensen Wedding Films and also a bride-to-be. I suggested to Mike that I write a primer explaining the process for brides considering hiring him.
With all of your hired vendors, start your research as early as possible (or have your wedding on a Tuesday).
So how do you get from point A (We’ve decided to have a videographer at our wedding) to point B (Signed, sealed, delivered, Jensen Wedding Films, he’s yours!) you ask? Let me see if this will help:
1. Initial Contact- Once you call Jensen Wedding Films and your date is available, Mike will tell you a little about the packages or any deals -such as off-season discounts and see what fits your budget. It is a good idea to ask any questions that you may have at this time as well. This way, you can decide if you would like to set up a consultation.
2. Consultation- The consultation usually takes about an hour at his studio. Here, you will meet Mike, view various clips, highlights, and segments from recent weddings.
Some things I found unique about the company are included in the "custom points." Custom points are additional services that can be added to your basic video coverage. For example, Jensen Wedding Films can incorporate incredible panoramic shots or use a special camera small enough to clip onto the Groom’s clothing to get a special point of view angle. From time to time, Mike also goes out and takes aerial shots of your reception or ceremony site. He’s always trying something new! Currently, he’s learning how to fly a RC plane in hopes of putting a camera on the bottom of it for some unique, yet awesome angles.
3. Contract- When you have decided to book Jensen Wedding Films , you will sign a contract. This can be done during the consultation, or after you’ve taken the information home and discussed it with your family. You do not need to decide on all the specifics at that moment. By signing the contract and putting down a $1000 deposit, you are securing your date and the services.
4. The Wedding and Final Product- During the time leading up to the wedding, you will be in contact with Mike to finalize plans. Mike will tape you as you prepare for your day as well as get the ceremony and reception. Once the event is over, Mike takes all the raw footage back to the studio and makes a DVD of your wedding. On the DVD, you’ll find the documentary (the entire event) along with a retrospective reel. The highlights reel will be about 6 minutes long, highlighting the most beautiful clips that were taken on your wedding day. As soon as the product is finished, you’ll be notified and can pick it up or he will mail the finished product. Turn-around time is usually around 6 months.
Prepare to be impressed!
I hope that this gives you a clearer idea of what you would expect when hiring a videographer. Going through the process myself, I have found myself thinking time after time, “Ok, it’s time to hire someone for my wedding, where do I even begin?!” When I know what to expect from a vendor, I feel that I have the upper hand and can focus on more important aspects, such as, is this company right for me? I wish you the best of luck in finding all the right people to help make your day special and care free. Jensen Wedding Films is a truly professional company and you’ll be amazed at what you’ll walk away with.