How to Choose the Right Wedding Videographer: The Wedding Video You’ll Actually Want to Watch

May 8

Need to find the perfect wedding videographer in Canada? Discover the tips and tricks for ensuring your wedding video isn't a total cringe-fest.

Wedding planning is a beautiful and romantic journey... unless you’re up at 2 a.m. Googling "choosing a wedding videographer" with a panicked look because you just realized that if you pick the wrong person, your wedding video might resemble a low-budget zombie movie. But don't stress, I've got you covered with these wedding tips that will ensure your video is something you’ll actually want to watch—not just because it's about your wedding, but because it’s awesome. Let’s dive in!

1. Find Your Wedding Video Style (Hint: It's Not About Getting All Spielberg)

First things first, what kind of wedding video do you want? You could go the cinematic route, but remember, you’re not starring in the next Marvel movie (unless your fiancé is Chris Hemsworth, in which case, congrats). Cinematic videos are dramatic, artsy, and often have that “epic sunset shot” that makes you wonder if the videographer has a side job as a drone pilot.

Or maybe you prefer the documentary style. It’s like being in your very own episode of "The Office"—except with fewer paper sales and more dancing relatives. Documentary-style is all about capturing moments as they happen, the way they happen, so be prepared for uncles who shouldn't have had that last glass of champagne to make an appearance.

Finally, there’s the artistic approach, where your video might look like it was shot by a videographer who just discovered Instagram filters. If you love artsy-fartsy visuals and dream-like sequences, this could be your jam.

2. Research: Stalking Is Encouraged (Online, of Course)

Now that you know what you want, it's time to research. And by research, I mean harmlessly stalking your potential videographers online. Check their portfolios to see if they can capture love and joy or if they specialize in slow-mo smiles and blinking shots. Look for reviews, because, let’s be honest, if someone had a bad experience with a wedding videographer, they’re not shy about sharing it.

When you find someone who seems like a good fit, dig deeper. Check their experience. You want someone who has shot a wedding or two, not someone who primarily films their cat's YouTube channel. Not that there's anything wrong with cat videos, but your wedding is not the time for cute feline bloopers.

3. The Interview: Time to Ask the Tough Questions (Like, Do You Even Like Weddings?)

Now that you have a list of contenders, it's time to schedule some interviews. This is your chance to find out if you click with the videographer. I have a list of questions that can help you unveil your dream vendor. Ask them about their style, how they handle unexpected situations, and if they've ever had to ask a relative to put down the camera and let them do their job. You know, just in case Uncle Bob gets a little too enthusiastic with his new iPhone.

Here are some other questions you might want to ask:

Do you work well under pressure? Weddings can be like reality TV—drama, tears, and occasional laughter. You want someone who won't run for the hills if things get a little chaotic.
Do you bring backup equipment? Because if there's one thing you don't want, it's a videographer whose camera dies right as you say, "I do."
How long will it take to get the final video? You don't want to wait until your fifth anniversary to see your wedding video. That's just awkward.

4. Budget: Let's Get Real About the Cost (Because Money Doesn't Grow on Trees)

Let's talk budget. Weddings are expensive enough without a surprise invoice that makes you consider eloping to Vegas. Ask your potential videographers about their packages and what's included. Make sure you understand exactly what you're getting for your money. Is it just the ceremony? Does it include the reception? Will they capture your dance moves that may or may not resemble a malfunctioning robot?

Discuss payment schedules and be clear about the cancellation policy. Trust me, you don't want to lose your deposit because you had to change the date due to a spontaneous elopement plan (just kidding—sort of).

5. Go With Your Gut (And Make Sure It's Not from the Open Bar)

Last but not least, trust your instincts. You can analyze portfolios, reviews, and budgets all day, but at the end of the day, you need to feel comfortable with your wedding videographer. If they give you the heebie-jeebies or talk about their love for shaky-cam footage, it might be time to move on. Remember, videographers and photographers spend the most amount of time than anyone else at your wedding.

Choosing a wedding videographer doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal. Follow these wedding tips, do your research, and remember to laugh a little along the way. With the right videographer, your wedding video will be something you'll treasure forever—or at least until your kids find it and start asking why everyone is dressed like it's a fancy costume party. Good luck!

Planning to save all that time? Here’s how you can do it.

If you're getting married in British Columbia, Canada and looking for a videographer who gets it, you know, someone who can blend into the background like a ninja with a camera and emerge with stunning footage that makes you wonder if they secretly used a time machine, then Shyah K Films is where it's at.

At the end, you would want a wedding video that will make you laugh, cry, and everything in between. We give you a wedding film that's not just a keepsake but a cinematic journey through one of the most important days of your life. Plus, we might even catch that moment when your grandpa shows off his killer breakdancing moves. What more could you ask for?