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Start soon. Most good videographers shoot on average one wedding a weekend. Book them at the same time you book your church, hall, photographer, etc. Normally 9 - 12 months in advance of your date. Never settle on the first video you see. Go through the process…eliminate all doubt. Contact 6 videographers. How do you find them?: Contact friends that have used a videographer (ask to see their video)
Bridal Publications always have videographers listed. Surf the internet.

Once you've settled on six do the following:
Contact each and get a demo. Most established videographers have something on their websites for you to view and information about their packages. Don't ever scratch anyone from your list yet because of price until you've seen the work they produce. View the work of the least expensive videographer ($500 - $700) in your area and the most expensive ($2000 - $5000) in your area. It will give you an idea of what kind of work is delivered at those prices. Set an appointment with the 3 that you feel have the style you would be comfortable with and a price that fits in your budget. If you follow this system you'll assure yourself that you will have a video you'll treasure forever.

Things To Consider: Look at previous weddings the videographer has videotaped. Notice the color and brightness of the screen, as well as the quality of the sound. This will indicate the quality of his/her equipment. Notice the picture -- is it smooth or jerky? This will indicate the videographer's level of skill. Notice any special effects such as titles, dissolve, and multiple screens.

Make sure you hire someone who specializes in weddings. Just like your photographer, your videographer should be experienced in wedding procedures and, ideally, should be familiar with the layout of your ceremony and reception sites. This will allow him/her to anticipate your next move and be in the proper place at the right time to capture all the special moments. Remember to ask your videographer to interview your wedding party, close friends and family members, asking them to make a wish or toast to both of you as a married couple, or to tell any "wild" stories they may want to share for the record. This personalizes your video and is a wonderful memento. Consider both personality and professionalism when hiring your videographer.

Find out what is included in each package you are considering: hours of coverage, titling, in-camera editing or post-editing. If you will be getting married in a church, find out the church's policies regarding videography. Some churches do not allow a videographer to be close to the ceremony.

To preserve your wedding video for many years to come, store it in a cool, dark place.

Beware: As in photography, there are many companies with more than one videographer. These companies often use the work of the best videographer to sell their packages and then send a less experienced videographer to the wedding. Again, don't get caught in this trap! Be sure to interview the videographer who will shoot your wedding so you can get a good idea of his/her style and personality. Ask to see his/her own work.


TITLES

Titles and subtitles can be edited into your video before or after the filming. Titles are important since twenty years from now you might not remember the exact time of your wedding or the names of your wedding party members. Some videographers charge more for titling. Make sure you discuss this with your videographer and get in writing exactly what titles will be included.

Options: Titles may include the date, time and location of the wedding, the bride and groom's names, and names of special family members and/or the wedding party. Titles may also include special thanks to those who helped with the wedding. You can send these people a copy of your video after the wedding. This is a very appropriate and inexpensive gift!