surroundedmedia.com gathered 18 questions to ask your videographer before hiring them. Asking the following questions will help you vet your videographer and get the best quality video for your investment. Consider the following:
1. What is your videography style?
Understanding the videographer's style will help determine if it aligns with your vision. Whether cinematic, documentary, or journalistic, ensure the videographer's style matches your preferences.
Watch this video to see how different videography styles can be seamlessly blended.
2. Can I see samples of your previous work?
Reviewing their portfolio will give you insight into their work, storytelling abilities, and technical expertise.
Note: Professional or seasoned videographers should have extensive examples of their work.
3. What equipment do you use?
Knowing the type of cameras, lenses, and other equipment they use will give you an idea of the production quality you can expect.
4. Do you have experience filming in similar settings?
When planning an outdoor wedding or event (in a large venue), the videographer should have experience working in such environments.
5. How do you handle audio recording?
Clear audio is as important as high-quality visuals. Ask about their microphone setup and how they ensure crisp and clear sound in various environments.
6. Do you offer drone footage services?
Drone footage can add a unique perspective to your video. If aerial shots are crucial to you, inquire whether the videographer offers drone services and if they are licensed to operate drones legally.
Watch this short video to see powerful images captured using drone equipment.
7. Will you be the one filming my event?
Ensure the person interviewed will be behind the camera on your big day. Sometimes, larger companies may send alternate videographers than the ones you initially meet.
8. What is your approach to storytelling?
A skilled videographer should be able to craft a narrative that resonates with your audience. Ask about your videographer's approach to storytelling and how they intend to capture the essence of your event or project.
Tip: When hiring a videographer, provide a detailed event timeline for them to develop a storyline for the final video product.
9. How do you handle unexpected challenges during filming?
Adaptability is fundamental in videography. Ask about your videographer's experience dealing with unforeseen circumstances like bad weather or technical glitches and how they ensure the smooth continuation of filming.
10. What is your turnaround time for delivering the final video?
Understanding the timeline for post-production and delivery of the final video is essential, especially if you have specific deadlines or events where you plan to showcase the footage.
11. Do you offer customizable packages?
Every project is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not suit your needs. Inquire whether the videographer offers customizable packages tailored to your requirements and budget.
12. What are your payment terms and cancellation policies?
Clarify payment schedules, deposit requirements, and cancellation policies upfront to avoid any future misunderstandings.
13. Are you familiar with our venue/location?
Familiarity with the venue can be advantageous for the videographer. Your videographer may already know the best vantage points for capturing key moments and be aware of any logistical challenges.
14. Do you have backup equipment?
Technical failures can happen, but a prepared videographer will have backup equipment to ensure uninterrupted filming.
15. Will you collaborate with other vendors, like photographers?
Coordination between different vendors, such as videographers and photographers, is crucial for ensuring a seamless experience on the day of your event.
16. Do you have liability insurance?
Liability insurance protects you and the videographer in case of accidents or damages during filming.
17. Can we request specific shots or styles?
If you have particular shots or styles in mind, discuss them with the videographer to ensure they can accommodate your requests.
18. How do you handle revisions after the final video is delivered?
After viewing the final video, you may want to request revisions or edits. Clarify the videographer's policy regarding revisions and any associated fees.
Bonus Question - Will I Have Access to the Raw Footage?
If you believe you might use the raw (unedited) footage from the video project sometime in the future, discuss how you can acquire the footage after the project is complete.
Some videographers will put raw video footage on an external hard drive or ask you to purchase a hard drive in advance so they may transfer the footage to it for you. Let the videographer know upfront if you need footage immediately after an event.
Event Videography Questions
In this article, you discovered crucial questions to ask when vetting your event videographer and their skills.
Knowing what questions to ask when vetting videographers will help secure the best quality, highly skilled, and most reasonably priced video footage of your event, stock footage, or promotional material.
Failing to adequately vet your videographer can leave you paying exorbitant prices for mediocre quality and embarrassing video footage.
Sources:
luc.edu/umc/resources/hiringfreelancers
columbia.edu/~sko2002/web-pages/videography.htm