It takes a team to make any event a success, and over the years we’ve worked with some of the best area vendors in the industry — from DJs to limo services to hairdressers and makeup artists. Valley Creek Productions is our preferred videography company and has experience with all our venues. We spoke with owner Justin Chan, who also serves as president of the Greater Philadelphia Videographers Association, about what makes a good event video, new trends in videography — and no surprise — why two is always better than one.
Why Hire a Videographer?
Nearly all couples have a photographer at their wedding, but Justin says it’s surprising how many brides and grooms haven’t thought about having video or aren’t sold on the idea.
“There are a lot of things that happen on a wedding day,” he said. “They look up and it’s done.”
A video takes the couple back to their special day over and over again. They can experience some of the things they missed or weren’t present for and see people they didn’t get a chance to spend much time with during the wedding.
Capturing the ceremony itself on video is also a major benefit. As Justin says, one part of the couple may not even be present for the beginning when the flower girl, ring bearer and other members of the bridal party enter. In addition, the vow exchange can be so emotional that the couple might not even remember it in detail. A video is a perfect way to savor the moment and relive the experience.
The reception is another area with moments that can go by in a blur, such as the introductions, toasts and speeches, as well as the first dance and cutting of the cake. Your friends’ smartphone videos just can’t capture all of that.
“You want to remember this day,” Justin added. “In 10 years, in 20 years, you’ll be glad you invested in the video.”
How Does a Videographer Work?
Every company has its own way of working, but Justin prefers to work in a documentary style. He and his team aim to be unobtrusive. They use long lenses and put microphones on the groom and officiants, which later makes it seem like they were right there.
“We aren’t coming in with big cameras and lights,” Justin explained. “We want to tell the story of the couple and what’s happening. We don’t interview guests or have them wave at the camera.”
For larger weddings and receptions, Justin recommends having a two-person videography team. That way, it allows for more than one angle. At the ceremony, there can be one fixed camera on the couple and another camera that can film parents, guest reactions and more. Many couples like to have their videographers for the whole day, from hair and makeup preparations to the end of the reception, which allows the couple to remember those special moments forever.
Two Trends to Watch
These days, digital delivery is the standard. Justin says DVDs are on the way out, with many couples opting for delivery on a flash drive. He also says that his team is now shooting in high definition. In addition, couples want short trailer-type options so they can put a 2-minute highlight video on social media or share a 10-minute reel with their friends. The full video is usually just for the couple, their families and closest friends who want to see the entire event.
Drones are another popular trend Justin is seeing. Drones give the couple another perspective of the day and are ideal for establishing shots of the ceremony and the venue. Valley Creek is Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)-licensed and insured for commercial drone flights, something that is important to consider when hiring anyone to do drone footage.
Looking for more ideas to preserve your special day? We have advice for must-see engagement photos here and top tips for perfect wedding photos here.
Ready to start planning your party? Schedule a consultation with one of our event managers today!
Robert Ryan Catering and Design plans and executes over 400 events each year, boasts a five-star rating on WeddingWire and has received WeddingWire’s Couple’s Choice/Bride’s Choice Award seven years in row. Learn more about Robert Ryan Catering & Design and tour our venues. Subscribe to our e-newsletter for exclusive offers, up-to-date news and recipes from our executive chef.
Photos and videos: Valley Creek Productions
