Budgeting for Your Videographer
Packages and final costs vary, but most wedding videographers in Maine and its surrounding states charge between $800 and $1500 for a full day of taping. No matter how tempting it may be to choose a "budget" package of $500 or less, be aware that many low-cost wedding videography offers substandard wedding videos and DVDs. Unless you're receiving this offer from a friend or relative whose work you are already familiar with, steer clear. On the other hand, some wedding videographers charge very high prices for work that can be done digitally (and hence quickly) or for similar work to other experienced but less pricey establishment.Sit down with your groom-to-be and set a budget you can both promise to stick to. If your budget is on the lower end, don't skimp on quality; in many cases you can minimize packages or shorten the videographer's taping time in order to save on costs. If you have plenty to spend on this aspect of your Maine wedding, don't go wild or accept the first offer you feel is a good one; more money does not necessarily mean a better finished product. Do your homework to find a Maine videographer with experience and a good reputation you know you can count on.
Good Reputation, Great Results
Due to its increasing popularity as a destination wedding locale, Maine has experienced a boom in wedding-related services in recent years. This means there are lots of great videographers to choose from -- but it also means lower-quality companies may set up shop in order to catch the flow of eager marrieds-to-be. Be certain to have a handle on your prospective videographer's reputation. Ask how many years he or she has been in business and double check with the Better Business Bureau. You should also ask for at least five references. Follow up on these; first-hand accounts are important, as many consumers who leave a company dissatisfied never report that they were dissatisfied at all.Try Before You Buy
Once you're comfortable with a prospective videographer's reputation, it's time to set up appointments with each shop. If you haven't visited Maine before, now is the time to familiarize yourself with your chosen wedding location. Plan a day trip with your groom-to-be and stop in at each of the top three to five studios of your choice.You will first want to get a general feel for the quality of the studio. Is it clean and organized? Is it welcoming? Did the shop staff help greet you politely and seem willing to take their time in answering your questions? Be sure to ask to look at sample videos or DVDs; the quality of a videographer's work speaks volumes. Also ask to see still shots if the shop offers this service. Be aware of how comfortable the couple looks in the video (taking into account wedding jitters, of course). Look at the color quality; do the colors appear natural and is the lighting appropriate, showing events clearly without being overly bright?
Most of all, don't feel rushed into a decision; even if you adore a prospective Maine wedding videographer, go home and think it over before signing the contract. You don't have to be a professional in the field to find the videographer who's perfect for you. Taking your time now means your Maine wedding memories will be preserved beautifully.