#4. Too Obtrusive
A common excuse I hear why brides don't get a professional videographer is because they're afraid the videographer will be too obtrusive. This is meant to be an intimate and personal time. The last thing they want is a big camera and bright lights. Or some guy in an ugly Hawaiian shirt going around asking the guests corny questions.
Well, there may have been a time when this stereotype existed (and heck, sadly there are still some videographers out there that fit this description), but this is no longer a fear that need stop you from getting a pro videographer. First, today's professional digital camcorders are small and compact, yet still deliver stunning images. And cameras like the ones we use (the Sony PD150 and 170) take amazing images in the lowest of lit conditions. This isn't to say we never use an on-camera light, but when we do, it's done from a distance to illuminate a large area.
Here's a photo of me getting a shot of a bride and groom (photo by Ann Hamilton). Now, does this look obtrusive to you?
Second, we're trained to be aware of our presence and respect the personal space of the guests. With our telephoto lenses and wireless mics, we can get the action even when shooting from far away. This is another reason why you need to use a PROFESSIONAL. Uncle Charlie is not going to have the equipment or the training necessary to capture the memories from this special day in a way that is not unobtrusive.
#5. No Budget
Sadly, this is one excuse I hear all too often. There just isn't any more room in the budget for a professional videographer. What I actually see more often is that it's a matter or priorities, not buget. I recently read an article in a popular wedding mag that listed a real couple's wedding here in the Bay Area. The grand total was over $60,000, but there was no video. However, this couple did find enough money in their budget to spend $3,000 on the open bar. So, getting their loved ones drunk and tipsy was more important than a professional video recording of the most important day of their life. Interesting.
The rate for videography runs the gammit. There are some packages as litte as $1,000. For the more artistic and "cinematic," rates may go as high as $10,000 or more. You will get what you pay for, but at least you should get something. It's just too important not to prioritize it.
Ask yourself this: if you had the opportunity to see either an album of your great grandparents wedding, or a video, but you could only choose one, which would it be? Something to think about. Don't cheat your children and grandchildren out of not only seeing what you looked like, but seeing what you were like.
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