Hey There 2012 + What Makes a Good Videographer?

Photo Source: Style Me Pretty via Scott Andrew Studio

Happy 2012 friends! I hope that you had a night full of memories and have started the New Year on a high note, a never-ending high note.

We started 2012 with heavy hearts. My husband's grandmother passed away about an hour before 2012 began. It is a sad time but we are getting a lot of time with family. Keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. I know we can count on y'all!

I loved this photo on Style Me Pretty plus the article is perfect for tips on throwing the perfect party. Doesn't the picture raise your spirits?

As I evaluate goals for the upcoming year I started thinking about what makes for a good videographer? I love looking at other companies work and drawing inspiration from it. I make notes of things to try and things to avoid. The more I think about what I want to offer my clients this year the more I reflect on what makes for the best cinematographer. Want me to list them? (Pause for your cheers and clapping!) Don't worry. I did.

1. Look at their portfolio. I know this is a given but I always think this important. If you want to see more samples ask for them. Every vendor should be willing to send them to you. If my portfolio doesn't make you dance my services aren't right for you.

2. Do you like their website? This is more one of my personal preferences. I won't book a haircut, visit a store or hire anyone who doesn't have a decent website. Call me picky but Internet is HUGE for my business and appealing to potential brides is important.

3. Read their reviews. This is something that I love about my clients. If no one saw my work I think their sweet words alone could get me my next gig. Brides tell it how it is and their reviews should be a factor for booking someone else's services.

4. Meet face to face. This is probably one of my favorite steps. Meeting with a potential client not only eases my nerves but also the brides. A meeting can help with answering questions, acquiring the deposit and signing of the contract. It also helps both parties feel more confident about the overall event.

5. How well do your personalities mix? I cannot stress this one enough! You should feel comfortable with your vendor and happy to be around them. One blessing is all the brides I did not know before their weddings have become sweet friends.

6. Do you feel comfortable with them capturing your big day? Stop and think about this. You should feel 100% confident in your videographer. No doubts. If you have doubts look elsewhere or do not hire one all together. You are paying for this service. The wedding day is a one-time deal. You want a videographer who can do it all.

7. Share feedback. I ask every bride to share her expectations. I want the bride overly happy and the only way is to listen to her input. Is there a certain shot they want? Do they want you to direct guests while on camera or go more natural? Your videographer should show interest in what you are wanting for your overall product.

8. Keep Contact. This point goes for both before and after the wedding. There is nothing more frustrating than an uncommunicative bride and I know the same goes for a vendor. Keep the lines of communication open through emails, phone calls and whatever else melts your butter. If a wedding is months away make sure that your vendor is actively talking to you about upcoming plans and checking in just to see how things are going.

9. Creativity/Quality. You may be thinking uh duh? but these two things go hand in hand. Make sure your videographer meets your needs of creativity. Their quality is the result that you end up with.

Some of these things are things I excel at and some of these things I want to improve. As a small business owner my ultimate goal is to please each and every bride. When looking for a videographer keep these tips in mind.

Do you have any other ideas for picking the right videographer? Have any good or bad video experiences? If you are a 2012 bride start looking now and don't stop until you find the perfect vendor for you. Let's make this our year!