Both wedding videography and commercial videography have evolved over time into more than just 'recording a message.' No matter what you are recording, the mission is now to create an entire vibe. Commercial filmmakers and wedding filmmakers, alike, are in the business or representing the "feel" of your product or event. When you are looking for a professional videographer to capture something important to you, there are a few things to look for. Today we are just touching on four basics.... Let's break it down.
1) Spend some time searching less obvious terms, like 'filmmaker.' Professionals are distinguishing their craft from the videography of years gone by embracing a new name that more accurately captures just what it is that they do.
2) Look for a videographer (or, ahem, filmmaker) who is not afraid to set the stage with fantastic lighting. Lighting can be intimidating for those who are new to the craft or who have been doing videography so long that lighting just was not a part of what they brought to a gig. But lighting sets the subject apart and emphasizes what looks good in the scene. This is why Hollywood carefully curates surrounding lighting, including specifical hair lighting, to not just draw attention to the subject but showcase the subject beautifully. Not a believer in the importance of lighting? Grab a mirror and a flashlight and watch what happens as you bring the light down low and aim it up toward your face. That underlighting does no favors. Similarly, directional light from just one side can create shadows on the opposite side--and depending on the look you are going for, maybe you bring a second light in to ease the 'dramatic' vibes. How many lights and where they are placed, in addition to shooting location and natural light available, can take a scene from ethereal to moody to foreboding. So look for someone whose portfolio or experience lets you know they can curate the look you are going for!
3) Unless you're creating a silent film, and chances are good that you are not, you will need someone familiar with getting good quality audio. Look at similar work in the portfolio to determine whether this particular wedding videographer or commercial videographer included good quality, crisp audio in the films they are producing. You can always ask how that audio is captured, as well. There's a good chance the speaker of the film will be getting "mic'd up" to ensure quality of audio.
4) Last on today's brief list is something we already have mentioned but will mention again and probably again in another blog. Look at the portfolio! If the wedding videographer shoots with a moody vibe and you want light and airy, you probably need to look elsewhere. If you see a great commercial videography portfolio showcasing different types of products from what you sell, inquire about a spec film to get an idea of whether this person can meet your needs. Styles are numerous and it is much harder for someone to change their style up than for you to find someone who specializes in that style. Don't be afraid to shop around and look for someone who can do what you are needing!
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