Wedding Blog

Most couples give great thought to selecting both their videographer and photographer. However, the compatibility of the two is often times overlooked. I am not talking PC or Mac compatible. I am more importantly referring to the compatibility in their style and approach.

If you hire a photographer that has a journalistic shooting style, hiring a videographer that set's up shots would not be the best idea. That kind of environment can stifle the flow of your photography. Be sure to ask your videographer how their equipment is set-up during the wedding, especially during the ceremony. A photographer has a difficult time getting clear shots working around large lighting scaffold or tripods that may be behind or next to a couple; or perhaps blocking the center of the aisle as the couple takes their vows.

Also, learn how the videographer conducts themselves during the ceremony? Do they walk up to the couple recording them a few feet away? Not only is this distracting to the couple and guests but the photographer is blocked from taking pictures of that very intimate and important part of the wedding.

In all fairness, let me say that I've worked with some talented videographers. And Cory Bogle of Bogle Productions is my all time favorite videographer. He has a stealth- like approach to weddings, soft footed, light on the equipment and mindful about where and how he is seen during a ceremony. Cory has elevated the wedding video business to more of a feature film status. “We don't want to be a part of the ceremony, that's why we place our camera's to the side or behind the guests." says Cory. "Professional equipment has gotten better over the years and now with the use of smaller high definition cameras we are able to be less obtrusive." He has developed a reputation of having a discreet, fly on the wall approach. His observational style doesn't sacrifice the quality of his work. I've seen his films and have been moved to tears!

I couldn't help but ask Cory if he had any pet peeves with photographers and his immediate response, "Arrogance! When a photographer thinks he's king and acts annoyed when you’re next to them. Or if the photographer doesn't pay attention and walks in front of the camera during the first kiss." (Gosh, which made me think... have I done this? I apologize if I have!) This reinforces the fact that vendors need to work as a team.

At weddings where I know other vendors, I feel confident that it's going to be fun and we’re all going to do a great job. We’re all familiar with each other’s style and approach which makes the wedding flow nicely.

Here's a secret: When the vendors have fun, it shows in the work they deliver.

So go ahead and ask your photographer or videographer who they’ve enjoyed working with in the past. You may be able to glean some insight from the professional reputations and relationships that exist in the profession.