FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Several styles have evolved. Some are based more in an artistic impression of the wedding, and others rely more on journalistic and documentary techniques. Therefore, it is important that the wedding video client must understand the basics of the medium and how to purchase wisely in order to get the desired results. The purpose of this FAQ is to enlighten potential wedding video clients and associated wedding professionals.

Why Should My Wedding be Videotaped?

Today's video is first-rate and the new technology makes it possible to have a wonderful, tastefully done video that is on a par with broadcast work -- and with less intrusion than still photography. Thanks to technological advances in imaging and camcorder design, gone are the days of obtrusive lighting and cables on the dance floor!

Despite the wide availability and acceptance of inexpensive, compact high-quality consumer camcorders, the demand for professional wedding video has increased over the years and good videographers are getting ever increasing fees. This indicates that contemporary brides place high value on wedding video and report. After-wedding surveys reveal that those who had their weddings taped consider it an excellent investment, while those who failed to do so are often regretful. Video is the only way to capture sights...sounds...and motion. Your wedding day is the most important day in your life. You'll want to relive it with your family and friends. And you've spent an enormous amount of money on your wedding day with Flowers, Band, Limos, Reception Hall and lots more, the only way to see all of these items as they happened with motion and sound - is with video.

HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO HIRE A PROFESSIONAL INSTEAD OF USING

A FRIEND TO VIDEOTAPE MY WEDDING?

VITALLY IMPORTANT! An amateur-produced wedding video won't be watched very often because it is boring. The problem starts with the equipment. The typical camcorder used by an amateur produces a poor image in low light. Most churches and reception halls have low light. Problems get worse when you listen to the sound you get from a typical video camera: it's hollow and very difficult to hear...especially in large open areas like a church or reception hall where sound reverberates off the walls and ceiling. Next, the typical amateur doesn't have the means to edit the video into a tightly-knit production that tells your love story with emotion and impact.

Isn't videotaping intrusive -- all those cables, lights and stands?

Today, most wedding videographers use camcorders with on-camera lights -- or no lights at all -- so the two sources of "all those cables" are gone. Some cameras are even more sensitive than the human eye! There are remote positioning systems and miniature cameras to hide in places that formerly did not allow video, since the objection was to the operator and not the camera.

We like the video concept, but examples we've seen are trite and boring. How can we get something better?

Keep looking. The video should should flow like a good novel! You may need to increase your video investment to be able to obtain someone who serves a more savvy clientele. Also consider asking for a 30-minute edited version, also called the short-form.

Will videotaping my wedding ceremony be obtrusive?"

Not at all . . . MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS arrives at the ceremony location an hour before your ceremony to review the location and determine the proper placement for our cameras. Our cameras are placed on tripods and are therefore stationary during the entire ceremony. This professional equipment is designed to work effectively in low light situations and we only use camera mounted lights when absolutely necessary. Our skilled camera operators are dressed in professional attire and are very unobtrusive. We respect the religious nature of the occasion while we quietly and professionally record this most important day. We recommend using two cameras, one at the front and one at the rear, so that we can capture the entire ceremony from two different angles without moving. On the completed videotape you see the entire ceremony. Nothing is cut out; the sound is continuous, and the picture you see is from the better of two possible camera angles.

"How long have you been in business?"

MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS has been videotaping weddings in Atlanta since 1992. References are available upon request.

"We've already reserved a photographer; why should we have our wedding videotaped as well?"

Photographs are still an important part of capturing special events in our lives, but they don't tell the whole story. They can not actively capture the laughter, the spontaneity, the warmth, the love... MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS records the action of the moment without the posing of photographs, and enables you to relive the memories much more vividly. It's also terrific having a video to share with family and friends who aren't able to be with you to celebrate your wedding day.

"Do you do interviews of guests at the reception?"

Of course, if you'd like (and it won't cost extra, either)! MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS will ask your guests if they wish to congratulate the bride and groom on the video. These comments may be edited later, if necessary. These mini interviews are strictly voluntary.

"Is it expensive?"

MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS offers quality videotaping at affordable prices. We are very aware of how quickly costs accumulate when you prepare for a wedding. Therefore, our pricing structure offers several different packages and options, so you can tailor your wedding day videotape to your budget. MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS has no mileage, distance or travel charges within Metro Atlanta. Our more popular packages include up to 8 hours of total videotaping time.

How much will our video cost?

Let your overall wedding budget and the amount set aside for photos be a guide. Worthwhile, professional video requires an investment equal to or greater than photography, in my opinion. A good wedding videographer puts 20 to 30 hours into a single video between shooting, editing and client meetings. These professionals work hard and earn their money. Excellence shows. You will get more than your money's worth when you hire a quality wedding videographer. If you want video but are on a tight budget, eliminate the fancy editing, montages, and effects. (You already own the pictures, right?) Make quality of sound and picture recording your priority, because you can always come back later for fancy re-editing if desired. But you can never record missed action. When on a limited budget, you have not a cent to waste on an incompetent but cheap videographer. Some couple opt for the wedding ceremony only video to save money.

"So how much does it cost?"

Our full edited packages starts at $995. We also offer many different options that make your wedding video special, such as "through the years" photos of the bride and groom growing up at the beginning of the video, or "credits" at the end of the video to give recognition to your wedding party and family members. You choose the options that you wish to personalize your video. For more details and specific pricing information, please ask for the MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS "Your Wedding on Video" brochure.

Should I seek the lowest bid?

Wedding video styles and approaches are varied. So far there is no certification procedure. Evaluate candidates based on polices, performance, and reputation. A price quote on the phone is meaningless unless relevant to your desires and event logistics. Remember the old saying, “you get what you pay for.” A professional wedding video is priceless!

What distinguishes those "high end" videos costing thousands of dollars?

Higher-end videos are those which need make no excuses and capture all of the essential wedding elements. They look and sound professional and have no distracting flaws. There is a creative touch which embodies the feeling of the wedding. However, we realize that "life goes on" after the wedding therefore MJC operate on the CAP principle.

CREATIVE – AFFORDABLE – PROFESSIONAL

We maintain the same level of creativeness providing special effects and animated transitions. Just because we are able to produce wedding videos at an affordable rate do not mean the level of professionalism has to be compromised. We use the wedding industry standard equipment and carefully inspect each video before it is released into the client hands. We are properly attired and prompt.

Why should I pay for a pro video when my guests or relatives can tape it with their camcorders?

Most consumer (and even low-end inexpensive "pro") videos fail due to poor audio, inadequate planning and coordination to blend with the flow of the event, use of only one camera, shaky images, and insufficient battery capacity. Like photography, simple videos done by the guests are a nice adjunct to, but no substitute for, the professional video.

"My uncle has a camcorder and has offered to tape our wedding. Why should I hire a professional?"

This is a one-take event, with no chances to go back and correct mistakes or oversights. MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS has recorded hundreds  weddings and has the equipment, the experience and the professional know-how to capture all the special moments of your wedding day. And one of the most important parts of recording your wedding ceremony and reception is the post-production work involved in making your video smooth, professional and fun to watch. Hiring a professional allows your uncle to enjoy the festivities at your wedding, instead of being stuck behind the camera. (Plus it will save you from family disagreements when your uncle's tape is not what you expected, but it's too late to do anything about it!)                  Ask to see our “UNCLE CHARLIE VIDEO.”

"How early do I need to reserve my wedding date?"

The sooner the better, of course, to guarantee the availability of your date. While we are sometimes able to accommodate couples on short notice, we recommend three to six months in advance. During the more popular wedding months, dates can become unavailable a year in advance.

"How do I go about reserving my wedding date?"

In order to reserve your date, a $250 non-refundable deposit is required with a signed agreement engaging MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS to videotape your wedding. Once we reserve your date, MJC will no longer accept inquiries for that date.

What methods of payment do you accept?"

MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS accepts cash, personal checks, money orders or cashier's checks.

"When is the balance due?"

The final balance is due one week before the wedding ceremony. Most brides prefer to make incremental payments to avoid a large outlay of cash close to their  wedding date. We are flexible to meet your needs.

"How soon will the videotape be ready?"

The turnaround time is incredibly fast at MJC VIDEO PRODUCTIONS! The video will be ready in 4-8 weeks. This is dependence upon you providing us all with material (such as photographs or song selections) necessary to complete the video. Often, couples are able to have their completed videotape long before their photographer's proofs are even available.

What happens if the current video technology goes obsolete?

MJC Video Productions is proud to announce we can master your video tape to DVD.

What should I look for in demo videos?

Clear, understandable sound and crisp clear images with good accurate color and smooth camerawork. Due to the severe restrictions imposed by some churches, there will be instances where even the best videographer will not get the best results. However, a candidate who shows this should also be able to present some good-looking work. Like reading a book the video should flow and constantly move from one chapter of the day’s event to another.

What are some additional features?

 MJC offers many add on features such as the photograph sequence at the beginning of the tape, highlight montage at the end, listing of wedding party and family member names in the credits, additional special effects used throughout the wedding movie, animation transitions which gives the movie a smooth flow from one moment to another. The Gold -  Platinum – Diamond package incorporate the "storybook concept." This concept style of filming stage romantic love scenes, which are edited giving your movie, a real Hollywood touch.

Call (770) 322-3564 to schedule an appointment to see our demonstration tape.

• We need to know as much about your style preferences as possible. Do you like your ceremony short or do you want nothing cut out? Is there a particular effect you don't like or one you absolutely love? Sitting down as a couple with the Videographer is the most important way you can help us plan your video.
  

• Music is a very personal choice. We know what we like, but is it what you like? Do you both like the same thing? Remember that the video will last much longer than your current taste in music, so picking something timeless will ensure you enjoy it longer. We can help you out with music, if you like.
  
  There is nothing more emotional than a good surprise. Choosing an earlier start time will ensure we are there to capture the first time you see your flowers, the first time your parents see you in your dress, any many other "firsts" that can't be convincingly faked later.