We want to hear our vows on the video, will this be possible if the camera is placed away from the altar?
If only the camera's built-in microphone is used, your vows would most likely be inaudible since these microphones lose clarity at distances beyond 7-10 feet. We utilize broadcast quality wireless microphones, generally worn by the groom or officiant. These provide excellent quality.

We are being married at a candlelight ceremony, and the church lights are not very bright. How will the video look?
Although video cameras produce their best images when there is ample light, our professional low-light cameras do remarkably well in most churches and synagogues. However, you can expect that the colors on your tape will not be as vivid as those you see on broadcast TV, there is also a slight loss of picture sharpness.

How important is it for the videographer to attend the rehearsal?
It is not absolutely necessary to have the videographer at your rehearsal, however it is beneficial as it gives them the opportunity to see exactly how everything will be done. This enables them to avoid unpleasant surprises, such as having an attendant block the view of the couple during the vows. If your budget does not permit having your rehearsal taped, you might invite the videographers to your rehearsal dinner - telling them the time of the rehearsal. They will probably bring a camera, and it will give them an opportunity to get to know your wedding party.

You offer an edited tape, why would we need editing since we want to see all the scenes that were recorded?
As we use the term, editing does not mean the removal of un-usable scenes from the tape. Rather, editing weddings involves the following:

• The addition of titles, music, still photos, graphics, etc.
• The elimination of "glitches" which would detract
  from the tape. For example, a cameraman leaves the
  tape running while rushing to capture a spontaneous
  scene at the reception - this footage is edited out.
• Editing can be used creatively to give a tape better
  pacing. For example, a lengthy scene of guests dancing
  can be "broken up" and made more interesting by
  editing in interviews with guests every few minutes.

A well-edited tape looks far more polished and thus will be more entertaining and enjoyable to watch. Unedited tapes always have an amateurish quality.

Will the video images fade over time?
Because both video and audio information are recorded magnetically, the videotape will last indefinitely with no loss of quality if it is properly stored. You can also choose to have us record it on a DVD. What other technical factors should we be aware of when choosing a wedding video service? First, a professional video company will use professional equipment, as opposed to consumer level equipment. This includes cameras, recorders, tripods, and editing/duplicating systems. The ceremony should always be recorded using a fluid head tripod, which allows the camera to move smoothly and eliminates distracting jitters and jumps seen on amateur tapes. The videographer should have a camera-mounted video light for use at the reception when necessary. This can make a significant difference in video quality. Our professional cameras no longer need the floodlights - a 20 watt light can produce sufficient lighting.

What other technical factors should we be aware of when choosing a wedding video service?
First, a professional video company will use professional equipment, as opposed to consumer level equipment. This includes cameras, recorders, tripods, and editing/duplicating systems. The ceremony should always be recorded using a fluid head tripod, which allows the camera to move smoothly and eliminates distracting jitters and jumps seen on amateur tapes. The videographer should have a camera-mounted video light for use at the reception when necessary. This can make a significant difference in video quality. Our professional cameras no longer need the floodlights - a 20 watt light can produce sufficient lighting.
 

Is there that much difference between video companies? Why shouldn't we just choose the company with the lowest price?
A wedding can't be restaged for the camera if the sound on the tape is inaudible, the colors are distorted, a battery runs out of power, or the videographer hasn't planned his camera placement and misses key parts of the ceremony. You should be aware that many people in the business of videotaping weddings are amateurs using non-professional equipment. Such individuals often do not have the technical background and experience to do the job well. The person you hire should also have excellent interpersonal skills, as they will be interacting with you, your family, the presiding official, and your still photographer. When looking for a professional wedding video service, we strongly recommend that you view sample tapes.