vendor, regardless of the type.
But I wanted to learn those penetrating questions that dig deep, the really good ones that the experts would ask if THEY were hiring someone. Naturally, I turned to my favorite Hudson Valley wedding professionals for inspiration. (You'll be reading their must ask questions on this blog over the next few weeks.)
One of those experts who lent their advice is Nate Armstrong from Reaching Roots Studios. He shared some particularly insightful questions to ask potential wedding videographers so that you can find the best match for you.
I wasn't surprised with the creativity of his questions; Nate puts together some of the most original wedding videos I've ever seen. He's talented, energetic and has a great sense of humor...which is why we asked him to do the Best Hudson Valley Wedding Ever welcome video you can watch right on our home page. (Yes, he's the one who helped Jeff achieve his vision of becoming the "Jedi Master for grooms everywhere.")
4 Questions To Ask Your Videographer
What kind of movies do you like? What type of music do you listen to?
Your videographer's tastes will naturally influence the wedding video he or she produces.
"If your videographer likes Pride and Prejudice and you like Die Hard With a Vengeance, then you may want to keep looking," Nate says. "We edit and shoot to fit our tastes. By the way... both films are amazing, and I like both... so that's important too."
What are you reading?
If this question seems a little out there, think about it this way. Would you rather have a brainless lump preserving your wedding memories...or a creative artist who's constantly exposing themselves to new sources of inspiration? A videographer who reads is feeding themselves with creative ideas.
"Artists' minds should be working and developing," Nate explains. "Your videographer shouldn't be like a McDonald's, churning out identical videos. Each one should be different. You are looking for style and adaptability."
Do you work out?
Okay, now you're getting personal! Do you really suggest that a couple ask videographers this question, Nate?
"You may get a 'None of your business!'" Nate admits. "But the fact of the matter is, wedding days are long and hot. You need a videographer who can move and remain reasonably dry in the face of pressure."
What do you pride yourself on?
Ask your videographer what they like most about their work. It will reveal their passion and whether or not that is a good match for what you want in a wedding video.
Nate's answer?
"That's simple. For me it is image quality and edit pacing. For other videographers it may be movement or consistency." You'll want to factor this answer into your choice.
For a taste of Nate's famous video quality and pacing, watch the video below of Katy and Mitch's wedding at the Glen Harbor Island Club in New Rochelle, Westchester County.
It's got attention to all those little wedding details (love the bride's pink shoes!) the anticipation of seeing each other for the first time, the fun of a packed dance floor...all amazingly paced in less than four minutes!
Katy and Mitch at the Glen Island Harbor Club from Nathaniel Armstrong on Vimeo.
Nate Armstrong of Reaching Roots Studios specializes in highly stylized wedding movies that tell your story with clarity and drama, for the Hudson Valley and New York City area.