YOUR wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. You spend so much time planning the event, and then it’s over in less than 12 hours. Most couples want to capture their wedding on video so they can relive the special day or send a copy to friends and family who can’t be present.

You could leave the video up to a relative or friend, but you might be disappointed with the results. He might not have enough batteries charged and miss an important speech or he may have a few to drink and forget to film the cutting of the cake.

Why not let all of your family and friends enjoy the wedding and use a professional wedding videographer.

Most wedding videographers use professional digital cameras and should use a radio microphone (usually placed on the groom) to pick up the vows clearly. The radio microphone is also used for the speeches and guest congratulations for clear sound.

A reputable videographer will be able to show you a demo reel full of highlights as well as a full wedding video. The demo reel will show you that they have experience with a variety of weddings and the full version should be of a wedding similar to your own in style and location. This way you can see their editing style and know exactly what your wedding video will look like.

You should be able to meet with the videographer before the wedding day so that you feel comfortable with them. They will often attend the rehearsal and ask for a running sheet so that they know exactly what is happening and they won’t need to ask you unnecessary questions on the day.

Ask them how many weddings they have filmed. You don’t want them to miss out any important aspect of your special day because they are inexperienced.

The videographer will usually be filming your wedding for approximately 8-10 hours. Then there is usually another 10-20 hours spent in the edit suite, so expect to pay US$1,000 and upwards but look around, check out different people, the prices will vary, but find one you are relaxed and comfortable with and you believe will provide value for money in giving you that wonderful record of a wonderful day.

Taking the right steps to choose a professional videographer for your special day will ensure that your wedding video or DVD will be a pleasure to watch for decades to come.