Why Professional Videographers Are Better Than ‘Uncle Frank’

Often clients will ask me, “You’re a photographer, right?” I’ll tell them that I shoot both photos and video and explain that a package of both is something to think about. Sometimes the reply is, “Oh my I’ve got an uncle or a friend who can shoot some video.” I smile and let them know that’s cool and we settle on what they’re comfortable with.

I wanted to take this opportunity to explain why a professional video is better.

Most likely the audio will be from a built-in camcorder microphone. While it’s not terribly difficult to shoot decent video with newer consumer grade cameras, they can’t compete when it comes to professional microphones.

I believe that sound plays almost as important a role as picture.

Using multiple angles is a must! I’ve yet to hear about a family member using multiple angles and cutting them together. The best case scenario you’re going to get a couple of tapes or a hastily strung together DVD that will only be good for a laugh in 10 or 20 years.

Editing can make all the difference, and it’s time-consuming if you’re just learning. I have more than 10 years experience editing video. I know all the tricks to taking raw video and turning it into a “heart-strings” moment.

Professional tripods allow for smooth movement. Being able to move your shot without making the viewer queasy or looking like a 7.0 on the Richter scale is next to impossible with consumer tripods.

You don’t have to worry about imposing on a friend or family member. You want your guests to have fun and relax. Let a professional handle the hard work. We love to do it and we’re good at it.

If you absolutely insist on letting a friend shoot your wedding, I hope these points will help you understand the challenges and know what to expect on your big day and when you get to see your footage.

– George