Five checks before you book

Look at how many wedding videos someone has actually made. A business with only a handful may still be finding its footing; a strong portfolio shows consistency. Experienced videographers know which shots to get and when, work alongside the photographer without getting in the way, and plan for audio ahead of time by coordinating with the DJ and officiant.

Watch for off color balance, incorrect exposure, harsh shadows, or blown-out highlights. Good framing matters as much as good exposure — avoid anyone whose shots cut off heads or feel poorly composed. Camera work should be steady, audio clear, and the edit should flow. Be wary of cheesy effects or long stretches of decor b-roll.

Find out whether the company shoots and edits its own footage. Some larger companies advertised online outsource everything, which can make quality inconsistent. A small, local business occasionally outsourcing is less of a concern — but confirm the people filming are actually on staff.

Ask what happens if it rains, if equipment fails, or if a hard drive is damaged. A professional should have backup gear, a weather plan, and more than one copy of your footage.

Make sure there's a package that actually fits your day — multiple locations, vows included, drone footage if you want it. Vows and speeches take a longer video; a low-key day might only need a highlight reel. A good videographer helps you figure out which one you need, rather than upselling the biggest package.