Category: Events

How To Choose The Right Videographer For Your Wedding

Wedding videography is becoming ever more popular among the discerning clients, especially those who place great importance on the memories of their big day. With the advance of technology and the growing creative industry, the quality of wedding videos these days has improved dramatically and become much more film like. Wedding videography costs as much as, and at times, even more than wedding photography. That’s why choosing the right videographer for your wedding day is also an important step in your wedding planning. Below are some tips that will help you find the right videographer that perfectly fits your wedding needs.

Do Your Own Research

Start researching for local vendors near your area, or where your wedding venue is. Check their sample work online and narrow down what video editing style appeals to you the most. Just like wedding photography, style is everything. Look at how the story lines are put together, what music is used, and more importantly, how did you feel while watching wedding films of people whom you don’t even know. If you cry, then it’s likely you just found your wedding videographer. Don’t forget to check reviews and feedback about these potential vendors. It will help you a lot in deciding who to hire on your wedding day.

You can also ask around from family and friends for recommendations. You can inquire about how they work, their editing styles and their packages.

Interview Your Potential Vendor

Meeting your potential vendors can be a little challenging, especially when you don’t know what to ask. Yet, it plays a huge impact whether your wedding day will go smoothly as you plan it would be. That’s why this is a great opportunity for you to get to know them better. Ask them questions.  Talking to them will make you feel more comfortable when you talk openly about your expectations.

Here are some questions you can ask your potential videographer to help you jump start the interview.

• How long have you been in the wedding industry? How did you start working as a videographer?
• Will you be working with an assistant? How many?
• Are you comfortable working with other vendors, especially with the photographer?
• What is your production style? Vintage? Cinematic? Documentary?
• What parts of the wedding day do you cover? (Do they include cocktail hour? Table visits, etc.)
• What equipment do you use? Do you have backup equipment?
• What are your packages?
• How is the footage recorded?
• What is your estimated time of delivery?
• What videos will be provided?

Recommendations and comments:

Most wedding staff work with word of mouth as ads – we have far more faith in friends’ reviews than in faceless posts in news feeds. Do not forget to read reviews on the photographer’s page and listening to the advice of a friend – unexpectedly not all of us are so delighted with its task.

Ask pairs with which the chosen professional served independently in addition to feedback on the web site. Most of them are keen to share information and when a photographer was nice he will be sure to be right for you, give advice, build an environment, and find an individual solution to everyone.

Form and variety:

A significant argument is that a photographer’s portfolio can reflect the potential to deal with numerous weather, lighting, and location features and not just stunning but also varied. In contrast to the newly-weds, the number of photographs of décor products does not prevail. Beware of the shooting style of the photographer. It certainly must balance your sense of marriage and your general worldview. Sunny, sunny, and melancholy “streaky” taken or classic photographs impregnated with the photographer’s excellent sense of humor, which suits your couple’s mood and wedding expectations?

Technical machines

Be careful about what the photographer’s technique is using. You can make good pictures with a basic camera. However, you can only make a good picture with specialized equipment in any light or conditions that you can not predict. The photographer wants a new set of batteries, flashcards, and a backup camera since there are no injuries at all. When you first meet, do not hesitate to inquire about the technology and the protection package.

Meet Your Wedding Film Makers

Although there’s often so much to organize and do while planning your wedding, try to take some time to meet with your videographer face to face. We definitely recommend meeting with any potential wedding filmmaker in person.

Given the time constraints and the hundred and one other important considerations you need to fulfill when planning your wedding, look at a brief meeting, but one in which you can get a good measure of any potential videographer candidates. This could be in the form of either a quick coffee meetup, or even a Skype/FaceTime call.

Take a look below at some important considerations to look out for when you meet with a videographer and to make sure you feel comfortable and at ease with the filmmaker you hire.

Does your wedding videographer have a good personality? – to get the best out of your budget, and your wedding video, your filmmaker needs the necessary skills to be able to produce a high-quality film. They’ll need to be skilled at interacting with people and happy to work with and directing crowds too.

Do they put you at ease? – A good Videographer needs to be able to make their film subjects feel comfortable and relaxed. Your wedding day is a very highly charged atmosphere with lots of emotion from the bride and groom and guests too, so it’s really important you feel at ease with any potential videographer

Are they listening to you? – If any potential videographer seems to be simply reeling off a list of prices and packages and you don’t feel listened to, then maybe they aren’t the right videographers for you. Your wedding is tremendously special and as individual as you, so it’s important that you feel considered and any requirements or questions you have are addressed and you feel listened to.

Are they smart and professionally dressed? – your chosen videographer will be a major feature of your wedding celebrations and it’s important they look smart and professionally dressed. Although they may meet you in a less formal setting such as over coffee or Skype call, make sure you pay attention to the impression they make on you with regards to their outward appearance.

What should the Wedding Videographer know?

After choosing your wedding videographer in Italy, there are some important things you should communicate to him. This way you make sure that everything goes smoothly and that there are no problems on your wedding day.

Let’s see what they are:

• Provide the videographer with the details of all the contacts you found in Italy, if you have contacted a wedding planner, give the videographer his phone number.
• If you feel very attached to a particular music, let the videographer know, in this way he can evaluate in advance whether to include it in the video.
• It’s always a good idea to provide your videographer with a title page, with all the important people you would like to see in your wedding film. That way, your videographer won’t accidentally let someone out. The Mother of the Bride may not be too happy!
• Let him know the dress code. Think of your wedding videographer as a guest; he or she will have to integrate seamlessly with everyone else at your reception!
• Introduce the videographer to the photographer. The two will work in tandem and there is nothing more uncomfortable than a photographer and a videographer fighting for the best shots.

How to pick your wedding video style

Videography has become more and more popular over the last few years, with 51% of couples including this as a part of their wedding day. Not having a video is one of the biggest regrets couples have after their wedding day. And unfortunately, it’s impossible to recreate those moments once the day has come and gone.

Once you’ve decided whether to have a videographer on your day, the next step is to look at the filming style. Deciding your style, how long to hire, and the right person to do it are all choices you must make.

You’ve likely already put thought into the style for your wedding photos, so now its time to think about your video. These two elements will go hand in hand when helping you remember and relive your day, so consistency is key. Most importantly, you want to be sure to capture your wedding day the way that you want to remember it.

Luckily there are many styles for you to choose from and most wedding videographers will give you several options, so you aren’t limited in your choice. Whether you choose a full-length feature or a highlight reel, you’ll find the right style to fit your needs.

Cinematic

The most popular videography choice for weddings is cinematic. 37% of couples will hire a cinematic videographer on their day.

A cinematic style will capture your wedding day in a more stylised way. Not only will it include the important parts of your day, but also the little things that add those memorable touches, like the décor, rings and any pre-wedding activities.

Think of it as more of a movie edit that will be put together with the focus being on the production of your wedding day storyline. Visuals of your vows and speeches may be overlayed with video of you posing for photos or cutting your wedding cake. These elements help create a more stylised video and give a more movie feel to your wedding. So, in years to come, you can sit down with some popcorn and enjoy looking back on your day.

If this sounds like the video style for you, chat to your videographer about what they need from you to craft your day into that movie-style. Music and voice-overs will definitely play a part.

Traditional and romantic

The second most popular videography style is traditional and romantic style, as chosen by 29% of couples. A traditional wedding video will likely capture those important parts of your day, including your vows, speeches and first dance. Often traditional styles will have minimal editing or transitions.

In saying that, while most traditional wedding videos limit editing, modern romantic and traditional wedding videos are frequently edited into a highlights package. This way, you can relive the best parts of your wedding, without including any blunders or accidents. A good videography company will have editors who can work around these!

It’s becoming more common for videographers to include a wedding teaser video, which is a great way to share with your friends and family through social media. This is also more suited for friends and family, rather than having a massive viewing session. Save that for your parents!

Documentary

The third most popular wedding video style is the documentary format, with 22% of couples opting for this choice. This style is very similar to the cinematic edit, in that it will be longer and more stylised like a movie. It differs from cinematic by taking a more journalistic approach, rather than a dramatic feel. Documentaries often include interviews with the couple and their friends and family before they tie the knot. Expressing those pre-wedding jitters on camera might make you nervous, but it’s a great way to capture the emotion of your day.

This style of wedding video will also go through the paces of your wedding day from the very beginning to the very end in chronological order. There will be sections focusing on getting ready, arriving at the ceremony and exchanging your vows, all the way to getting photos taken and heading into the reception.

Documentary edits are perfect for those couples who love to tell their story and want to share their feelings before the wedding. This makes watching it and reliving it all the more fun, as there are sure to be surprises and things that were said and forgotten!

Wedding Photography Prices

Wedding photography can be jaw-droppingly expensive. You found your dream photographer, but they come with a hefty price tag. You may be wondering how you can book them, but without emptying your bank account in the process.

WELL, HERE’S THE DEAL…

Knowing all the little details and information about wedding photography prices, will help you make an informed decision and allow you to stay within your budget.

Wedding Photography Prices

The average cost for a wedding photographer from all of these sources was around the between $1380 and $1630 mark. It is recommended to spend about 5-10% of their total budget on their wedding photography. That is a big range but is consistent with the pricing indicated by “Your Perfect Wedding Photographer”

Local Wedding Photographers Prices By Region

Prices vary greatly within local regions for wedding photographers. Your Perfect Wedding Photographer has cited from their 2019-2020 survey some of the differences in regions throughout

I took a closer look at different wedding photographers to get a regional average and found some discrepancies that produced. I looked at different wedding photographers in all of the regions and took an average of each region’s local prices of the photographers that had them listed on their site for all day wedding packages

HOW TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

No sugar coating it

In meetings with photographers new to the business, the question I get asked the most is, ‘How do I become a successful wedding photographer?’ I decided to write this to help you succeed in your business. This is based shooting weddings over the last eight years. Perhaps the following will shed some light in a very competitive industry that seems to have gone through a huge creative spurt in the last 15 years. Let’s get on with it, shall we? Feel free to add your comments to the conversation below.

The fast track

The first point to get across is there are no fast tracks to becoming a successful wedding photographer. OK. That’s it! Just kidding. But seriously, I hope you haven’t come here after a google search looking for a quick and easy fix. There isn’t. Still with me? It takes immense time, passion, dedication, self determination and, like any successful business, discipline and perseverance. Some talent is needed no doubt. And this talent has to be nurtured, developed over years. I’m still a work in progress and that is the humbling attitude that I suggest you keep in mind

How do you start shooting weddings for a living?

Just don’t do it for the money. You probably won’t make that much anyway for the first few years. Do it for the love of photography. Yes, once full time, it is a business and you have to make a net profit at the end of the month. But right now, at this moment, how do you get started? How do you know you will like it until you try it?

Second shooting

First. I wouldn’t shoot a wedding without getting some experience. Most likely, the preferred start will be a gradual up-the-ladder approach as a second or third shooter. I do not recommend shooting a wedding without doing this first. I say this with peace and love. I wouldn’t even shoot a friend’s wedding, just because, well, you’re a friend or family member and things could go south. I’ve seen too many situations arise that go horribly wrong on the day or after a wedding. You’ve seen those news stories.

The right attitude

Weddings are high intense and super challenging. Having the right attitude, being courteous, deliver what you promise and then over deliver. It would seem that anyone can shoot a wedding, right? Especially if you just do a quick google search for wedding photographers. It would also seem that almost every guest at a wedding has a camera. Speaking from experience, it would also seem that there is a certain ‘uncle’ with a superior camera to mine. And it has a very very long zoom on it with an equally sized flash gun. Wow, he must be good with the camera set to ‘P’ for professional.

Pointers for Picking the Perfect Wedding Photographer

Wedding preparation is both exciting and full of challenges. You have time-sensitive decisions and investments to make, from choosing the perfect location to agreeing on which vendors to set as your wedding day team. These professionals will be part of many special memories of your wedding day.

One of your most important vendor choices is who will capture the events of your wedding. A friend or relative may own a DSLR camera, but you should hire a professional photographer to ensure the day is properly documented.This simple guide will help you decide how to hire the perfect wedding photographer.

As a professional wedding photographer, I have been interviewed by and have consulted with countless couples preparing for their big day.  I have also interviewed dozens of photographers, both from my own wedding and as a portrait studio manager, and believe I’ve narrowed down the most important factors for great wedding photographers.

Portfolio

An artist’s body of work is your window into their styles, skills, and stories. While looking at the images, you can evaluate each photograph using the same elements the Photographic Exhibitions Committee (PEC) of PPA uses as their “gold standard.” These elements are Impact, Technical Excellence, Creativity, Style, Composition, Presentation, Color Balance, Center of Interest, Lighting, Subject Matter, Technique and Story Telling.

Every photograph can be measured or graded on all twelve elements, but you may want to simplify by picking the most important elements to you and your partner. Score each photograph, and keep track of your highest rated works.

THINGS TO NOTE WHEN SELECTING YOUR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Wedding photography has become one of the key highlights to a perfect memory of a couple’s marriage. Everyone’s excited for your marriage and you can’t wait to see your wedding photos. But lets take a step back into the planning stages where deciding on a photographer became the biggest headache to begin with. But freight not for those who just began their wedding planning

PHILOSOPHY

For certain wedding vendors, you really don’t need to care about their philosophy. Wedding photography is not one of those places. Chances are, you’re going to spend more time with your actual day wedding photographer than with your bridesmaids and groomsmen on your wedding day, so you want to make sure they’re someone you’ll click with. The simplest way to start is to sort through the vendor listings of a wedding website or scroll through instagram hashtags to see who vibes with you. Once you’ve found photographers you’re interested in, look at their About pages. Those pages are carefully constructed to give you a sense of who the photographer is and how they work. Look for written philosophies that feel like they just click, and then see if that feeling continues when you meet with the photographer in person or talk to them on the phone

DO YOU LIKE THE PHOTOGRAPHER?

Once you’ve narrowed down photographers whose work you like, and whose philosophy you seem to click with, arrange for a meet up with your photographer. Then, figure out if you LIKE them. If you don’t, please don’t hire them. You spend enough time with your photographer on your wedding day that you should find them generally pleasant at minimum, possible-BFF-forever at maximum. (Only you know how much you care about love-loving them, but make sure you like them.)

LIGHTING SITUATION FOR YOUR WEDDING

Before we get too far into this idea of, “Just hire someone whose work makes you feel happy inside,” let’s have a quick reality check. The easiest wedding to shoot is a wedding in the daytime, with a ceremony under shade and great natural light. If that applies to you, ignore the rest of this paragraph. If, however, you’re getting married in a dark church or an outdoor evening or in a warmly lit ballroom for your wedding reception, it’s really important that you specifically look for a photographer that’s skilled with those lighting environments. Don’t assume that experience equals skill in low lighting. Look for weddings shot in similar lighting environments in your photographer’s portfolio, and ask them specifically how they would handle your particular situation. (Some photographers use external lights for dark receptions, while others may rely on their camera’s ability to see well in the dark.) If you notice that after it gets dark, every wedding photos in the portfolio are processed in black and white, that’s a hint that the photographer may not be super comfortable in darker situations. Don’t get me wrong, but a few black and white photos are totally fine to give some photos the added mood, but every photo in black and white? Red Flag! (Please note: Your wedding in a Dark Lit Church is not going to look like a wedding in a sunlit field, no matter who you hire, so don’t expect magic tricks.)

REVIEWS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Every photographer is going to have their strengths and weaknesses. It’s pretty easy to get a sense of what someone’s strengths are (let’s assume taking stunning photos is one of them). The trick is to get an accurate sense of what a given photographer’s weaknesses are, and then decide what you can live with. You can do this by a robust conversation with a photographer. (Just ask them flat out what their weaknesses are. A professional will tell you. Run away if they say they have none.) Or you can ask to chat with a past client. Here are a variety of weaknesses I’ve observed in various photographers (most of whom are kick-ass people and artists): not super good time managers on the wedding day, slightly socially awkward, slow delivery of photos, slow or poor client communication, not cheerful and outgoing with the couple, don’t take direction well.

Wedding photography tips on wedding shot lists, equipment recommendations, and more.

Wedding photos are only part of the equation.

They call it “The Big Day” for a reason. Weddings require a massive amount of planning. And those logistics don’t just apply to the ceremony, the cake, and the conga line.

“I respect the hell out of wedding photographers,” says editorial and portrait photographer. She doesn’t normally do weddings, but shooting a recent destination wedding gave her a new perspective on the genre. “It’s really tough. You have to embody fashion, documentary, event, portrait — every field of photography — into one day where you have seven hours to create a huge body of work.”

With so much to juggle, from lengthy shot lists and multiple locations to wrangling a large wedding party, and a finite amount of time to get your photos, it’s a tall order for even the best wedding photographers. Putting together a strategy is essential, and that preparation can save you when the best-laid plans fall apart.

Schedule and shot list

With just one day to get it all done, you don’t want to miss a thing. Meeting with the wedding couple in advance to go over the schedule and develop a shot list means you won’t have disappointed clients.

This not only lets her get the day’s schedule down on paper, but it also provides a way to address potentially unrealistic timing. Helping a couple realize they won’t go straight from the ceremony to the reception when they have to greet 300 people in the receiving line will ensure you’re scheduling the proper amount of time to capture the shots that are most important to the bride and groom, or brides and grooms.

WHAT ARE COMMON RATES FOR CAMERA OPERATORS

Motion picture production work can be a great way to pave your way toward loftier dreams or just get your hours on set to join one of the many technical unions. To make either of these dreams come true, you need to know what you’re worth. But that’s a tricky question.

First thing’s first, we need to know what kind of job you’re working. There are two different rates for every job:

• Union
• Non-Union

Once you know what kind of job you’re working, you can determine the day rate.Let’s start going through who does what and charges what.

Camera Operator

A camera operator is a person that records images, using a camera, for entertainment, news, sports, and more. Their job is to run the camera and capture images that enthrall an audience. But what does a camera operator charge?

NON-UNION CAMERA OPERATOR

A non-union camera operator’s daily rate is dependent upon the type of production they are working on and that production’s budget. If you’re working with friends, maybe you give them a break, but you should set your quote and stick with it, so when people refer you to jobs they’ll know ahead of time.  On an independent film shoot (short or full length), they will typically take in somewhere between $400/$500 per day,

What about on something independent but a little bigger, like a non-union commercial? On a commercial production (Corporate/Brand) a camera operator will make somewhere between $550/$650 a day.  So don’t let anyone bully you into taking less.

UNION CAMERA OPERATOR

Union job usually means a bigger production for a camera operator. These gigs might be for commercials, features, film, television, or news programs.Work for can be lucrative when you’re part of a union, because they help set your rates. That means there’s a floor to what you can legally be paid. So it’s much harder for an outfit to push you lower. It might be harder to negotiate because they usually have set budgets, but the pay can be high no matter what. Everything relies on the production’s budget. Union Camera Operators typically make more money an hour and between $750/$1000 a day. These rates are based upon the industry standard 10 hour day for any commercial production. Any overtime beyond 10 hours tends to be paid at 1.5 times the hourly rate, unless negotiations are worked out for a different rate. Standard Independent productions revolve around 12 hour days plus time and half OT.

Director of Photography Job Description

We are looking for visually creative candidates with expertise in camera work and lighting equipment. The Director of Photography is responsible for ordering and testing camera and lighting equipment, supervising a camera and lighting crew and editing a film’s visual elements in post production, among other duties.

Photography Directors need to work alongside a Film Director and help determine narrative elements through visual style.

Director of Photography Responsibilities:

• Developing a film’s visual style.
• Determining lighting requirements on set.
• Deciding on the best camera angles and frames for scenes.
• Ordering and testing lighting and camera equipment.
• Supervising a camera crew and directing camera movement.
• Selecting the appropriate film stock.
• Determining camera aperture settings.
• Controlling natural or artificial lighting conditions.
• Liaising with electricians to ensure adequate electrical supply.
• Determining elements such as filters, shutter angles, focus, depth of field and camera distance.
• Editing visual elements in post production.

Pros and Cons of Being a Sports Cameraman

Sports cameramen, or camera operators, capture live sporting events and broadcast them for at-home viewers. Read on to see some of the pros and cons of a career as a sports cameraman.

Pros of Being a Sports Cameraman

• Decent earnings potential (highest ten percent made more than $95,000 in May 2014)*
• Can be your own boss (22% of camera operators were self-employed in 2012)*
• Creative and technical career (use creativity to frame and put together images and technical knowledge to operate equipment)*
• Exciting and fast paced (work around the sports and events you love)*

Cons of Being a Sports Cameraman

• Highly competitive field (Slow growth expected from 2012 to 2022)*
• Work long hours, nights and weekends (some jobs require on-call availability)*
• Conditions can be less than ideal (work in all kinds of weather lifting and transporting heavy camera equipment)*
• Work can be seasonal and require travel (self-employed must find work between seasons and may travel widely to jobs and events)*

Cinematography Certificate

Through these accelerated learning programs, students work in labs and learn filmmaking technique necessities. Common learning areas include:

• Understanding film stocks
• Cinematography techniques
• Role of cinematographers
• Cameras, lens and lighting
• Using exposure meters

Associate of Arts in Motion Pictures

These 2-year degree programs offer students the opportunity to learn the basics of film and television, often while gaining knowledge from working industry professionals. These programs can aid graduates in landing entry-level employment while they learn how to launch careers as cinematographers. Common course options include:

• Cinematography
• Directing
• Sound design
• Editing
• Screenwriting

Bachelor of Science in Digital Cinematography

As part of these programs, students learn about film production and shot framing in hands-on learning environments. As part of these programs, students produce a project that showcases the skills and methods they have learned throughout their coursework. Common courses include:

• Lighting techniques and types
• Production preparation, line production and post-production
• Film crew
• Shooting and editing effects
• Animation

Clapper loader

A clapper loader or second assistant camera (2nd AC) is part of a film crew whose main functions are that of loading the raw film stock into camera magazines, operating the clapperboard (slate) at the beginning of each take, marking the actors as necessary, and maintaining all records and paperwork for the camera department. The name “clapper loader” tends to be used in the United Kingdom and Commonwealth, while “second assistant camera” tends to be favored in the United States, but the job is essentially the same whichever title is used. The specific responsibilities and division of labor within the department will almost always vary depending on the circumstances of the shoot.

Functions

Clapper loaders have a very important role as practically the only people on set who directly and physically oversee the state of the undeveloped negative. The loader – the only person who actually handles the negative between the manufacturer and the laboratory – thus can easily render an entire day’s work useless if the film is handled improperly. Additionally, the loader usually controls all records with regard to the film stock – from when it is received until when it is sent out to the lab; if this information is miscommunicated or missing, this too can destroy an expensive shoot. Furthermore, the loader usually has much more to do in addition to these tasks

Tips for Capturing The Best Photo Booth Snapshots!

A photo booth seems to give people an instant license to show off their silly sides with friends, loved ones, acquaintances and even strangers. Photo booths at parties and events can be a recipe for fun times for your photography clients and, ideally, some shareable, keepsake photos.

Unfortunately, the great majority of photo booth photos tend to have a “sameness” about them; people make the same basic funny faces and may use a few requisite photo booth props. However, whether you run a traditional or open-air photo booth, more creativity in your photos is possible

Location, Location, Location

Just as in real estate, “location” counts with photo booth setup. They don’t call alcohol a “social lubricant” for nothing, so if you have an opportunity to set up your booth near a bar, do it. Other ideal setup spots would be by the dance floor or a karaoke stage — anywhere people are already having a good time and the energy is high

Playing it Up with Props

With photo booth photography, success is often in the details. Arm yourself and your photo booth setup with plenty of props and other items to spark creativity and help people loosen up. You can also use existing accessories in unexpected ways; have all of the guys hold their ties or point to their boutonnieres while making faces. Have the ladies hold their cell phones to their ears and pretend to look preoccupied in an engaging conversation. Use existing decorations at the venue in fun and inventive ways in addition to having your own array of props nearby.

An innovative trend in photo booth props is paper prop sets with specialized themes for weddings, holidays, and more. They photograph amazingly well and are far easier to transport than 3D props. From funny mustaches to fake lips and ridiculous glasses, these paper props are sure to encourage bolder poses and yield more creative photos.

What To Look For When Renting a Photo Booth

When it comes to renting a photo booth for an event, settling on one company from a sea of many can stir up some amount of indecisiveness. How do you pick the right one for your event? Luckily, we have a few tips for you to always pick the best photo booth rental for any occasion. Keep reading

Customization and branding

If you’re shopping around for the best photo booth rental for your annual corporate event, don’t settle for just any type of kiosk. One of the prime advantages of digital photo booths is that virtually everything can be customized, immersing attendees in well-rounded experiences involving your brand.

Instant social media sharing technology

There’s power in photo marketing, and renting a photo booth is one of the easiest ways to leverage it. What’s the point in branding photos with your logo if they can’t be shared organically on social media? Social media is important to your event, whether it is a corporate or social one, so opt for a photo booth rental that allows your guests to instantly share their pictures online. Be sure to ask the vendor if pictures can also be shared instantly to an album on your Facebook page (personal or business), or if they can be tweeted out.

Quality equipment and technology

A part of your research should include comparing photo booth companies based on the quality of their equipment. As a rule-of-thumb, quality always trumps all. Look for a photo booth that comes equipped with a professional camera that takes high-definition shots.

Interactive elements and entertaining features

When renting a photo booth, remember that its main purpose is to entertain your guests. Look for a kiosk that’s interactive and playful. Physical props are a must, but digital props, green screen backgrounds, and drawing tools let your guest have more fun by allowing them personalize their photos.

THE DOS AND DON’TS OF PHOTO BOOTHS

We’ve all seen them. People trying to get the most out of their photo booths, but their efforts falling flat. So we wanted to share with you our top 8 dos and don’ts when it comes to photo booths.

Don’t: Choose The Wrong Backdrop.

Whether you’re at a holiday party or a wedding, the photo booth is hard to miss (refer to #4) so you want to make sure the backdrop and props not only compliment your event but are also going to produce some great photos.

Do: Make Sure You Get The Most Important Photos.

Seriously, at your company holiday party, you need to get your CEO in the booth. Because she does smile sometimes and a photo booth is the best way to make sure it happens! And, if you’re a bride, don’t forget to get a pic snapped with all your bridesmaids partying at your reception.

Don’t: Try to Get a Group Photo for the Website.

Group photos are some of the best parts of having an open-air photo booth at an event. When you cram 10+ people into a booth and try to get everyone’s face in front of the camera by contorting and standing at weird angles, you just can’t help but laugh like crazy.

Do: Get Creative!

At The SnapBar, we’re all about creating the ultimate, best photo experience possible so don’t be afraid to ask if something’s possible. Do you want your company’s logo on all your photos? No problem!

things to consider when choosing a photobooth company for your wedding

When it comes to life-changing events such as weddings, we try to capture every moment in its true spirit as a way of preserving coveted memories. A photobooth is one of the oldest forms of creating scenic photo-capturing environments and has an ability to bring peoples raw emotions before the camera. It is another twist to the normal way of having pictures and short fun videos captured that brings a little more fun and excitement to your family friends at the wedding. Choosing a photobooth company for your wedding can be a little confusing, but below are 5 crucial tips to help pick the right company for the job.

Profile

You should start with the basics. Many service-oriented companies are present with an online profile page or website. You can start by checking about the company at a glance. From there, you can have a picture of their services after which you can then follow up via a phone call and a make an appointment with them. A meeting in their premises gives you an opportunity to have a first-hand experience at their quality and service offers, which will help you, make an informed decision.

Cost

The cost of the services in another factor you should consider. Expensive does not always guarantee quality. It is, therefore, important for you to have a good evaluation of the services offered and the charges to ensure you get the services worth. Make a comparison between several companies before making a decision. The total cost normally includes company’s’ pricing per hour per shoot among other itinerary services. Ensure you also get to read their terms or conditions about the payment schedule and policy. Do not sign the contract without reading the fine print, always.

Specifications and customisations

There are several photobooth brands available in the market. They vary in their specifications and therefore are suited for different purposes. For your wedding, you should get a company that offers the larger photobooths that can accommodate a number of people. They should also be easy to customize to suit a customer needs which always improve the photo experience. You can also decide on whether to get an open or a closed photobooth depending on the events environs. They should also come with different backdrops, proper lighting and even props during the photo shoot. The ability to customize gives a variety of photos, which is always better.

Photo quality

The quality of the printed photos camera is also essential. You should look for a camera that has a wide angle for close up images, high quality and resolution. The pictures should be printed on a quality paper that can be stored for long without any deterioration or discolouration. After all, they are for making future memories. You can always get to check this by taking a few pictures with their equipment prior to committing yourself to the hiring contract.

Photo Booth

What’s happening during the CV lockdown – besides not much! 🙂

Well this wasn’t supposed to happen! And yet here we are. Remind me never to tell my CPA that I think this is going to be a good year, Lol. Those words are ringing in my head daily. No worries, right!? We’ll get through this together and come out the other side mostly intact. All kidding aside, I do hope you, your families and friends are all staying healthy at, let’s face it, this very confusing time. We’re naturally not doing any events at the moment and can’t wait to get back at it with all you fabulous people. In the meantime we’re cleaning, organizing, learning and getting ourselves ready for when this is all over.

things to consider when selecting a Photo Booth

Photo booths have come a long way in the past few years. When we first started at this there weren’t a lot of different booths available, software was in its infancy, printers were soooo slow (so, so, slow!) and boomerangs hadn’t been invented yet! Now not only do GIFs, boomerangs exist (and our printers are blazing fast – phew!) there’s even more features availble. We’ll get into those things in our next blog

Inside or outside? Super important consideration. Booths like our Mirror booth are amazing but their achilles heel is being outside. Sun, heat, rain(!) are all considerations if your booth is outside. Direct sunlight? Bad! While we can adjust our cameras for most situations there’s no way for us to beat sunlight hitting the camera. Even worse, direct sunlight on guests! No one has their eyes open so pics aren’t very good. If we’re going to be outside lets chat. We can do it but lets make sure we get the right booth and the right location to make this work.

Your timeline. We’ll be happy to be there as long as you want us to be! But lets look at the number of guests and your parties timeline. Most booth packages start with 2 hours of photo time and often that’s enough. That’s great for up to about 125-150 people. Getting over that probably needs more time to keep it super fun. You might want to consider adding a second photo booth or Ring Roamer so that we can cover everyone. What else in the timeline? Speeches, videos, first dances or breaks. Lets not pay for photo booth time if you’re not going to use the booth for short periods of time. Idle time is your friend. Its significantly less than ‘photo booth’ time and helps you to get the most out of your photo booth experience.

Photo booth placement. Location! Location! Location! Let’s have the booth near the people. I can’t tell you how many times we’ve been placed in an out of the way space and given the client next to nothing in photos because no one could find us! We’ll protest (politely) and ask for a better location but that doens’t always get us in a better spot. Trust me, we want to give you LOTS of photos and take LOTS of photos. That’s what we’re there for! We’re not happy when we don’t and neither will you. Happiness is a booth in a location where guests can see us

How to Get The Best Wedding Video Ever

Wedding videography packages range from $1,000 to more than $15,000, and the styles are just as varied. Use these tips to help you find the perfect pro to get a video that’s so good you’ll watch it on repeat well past your first anniversary.

Hire the Person Whose Style Most Closely Matches Yours

Just like photographers, videographers take different approaches to their craft. Documentary-style videos present the events chronologically, without many special effects, while a cinematic film is generally more dramatic, using interesting angles for a Hollywood-movie feel (these are just two options of many). “You don’t want to select a cinematographer with one style and send them clips from another videographer with a totally different style

Take Finding a Videographer As Seriously As You Do Your Photographer

Unfortunately, hiring a videographer seems to get pushed back somewhere between welcome bags and favors—and it’s just too important for that C-list slot on your long list of to dos. “By that time, there will only be a handful of studios left to choose from, and most likely, you won’t be able to hire your first choice,” says Julie Hill, owner and creative director at Elysium Productions, an international videography firm.

Subscribe to Video Websites

There are plenty of places to find wedding videographers, but Vimeo and Love Stories TV are the preferred spot for most A-list picks to post their recent work. Aside from the big videography communities, you can easily search by location and even wedding venue to find clips from your reception venue and get ideas.

Embrace the Professional Referral Factor

People like your photographer and wedding planner have worked with videographers in the past and will be able to suggest filmmakers they’ve liked or that they’ve heard good things about through previous clients.

How to Choose a Wedding Videographer: The Essential Guide

Your wedding day is one of the happiest days of your life and the memories of it will be cherished by you and your partner forever. However chances are, no matter how sharp your memory is, you won’t remember every single detail of it off by heart – which is why a lot of couples nowadays are opting to have wedding videography.

From that breath-taking moment that you glide down the aisle in your wedding dress, right down to the evening party where your Auntie Sandra pulls out her best dance moves after one too many glasses of champagne, having this all captured on film means that you can relive the day in all its glory for years to come.

What Does Wedding Videography Involve?

Forget the dreary, out of focus and wobbly videos you may have seen in the past, the new breed of wedding videographers are producing high quality and imaginative wedding day films.

Using digital camera technology and editing techniques, a variety of filming styles are now available and can be supplied on DVD or even streamed onto the web – whichever method is most convenient for you and your partner.

Is it Expensive?

There are of course many different wedding videography companies to choose from and they all vary in cost, quality and style. As with all of the other services that you use for your special day, you are likely to get what you pay for so do some thorough research before you commit to a company.

How to Choose a Wedding Videographer

The weather was rough for filming, but as a wedding videographer, I knew I had something special once I saw the raw video. I spiced it up with one of my favorite Velvet Underground songs, and did my editing magic. When the final one hour wedding video was edited and delivered, Vicky confided in an email to me: “I laughed and cried watching the wedding video. Love it!”

COST OF A WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER

Wedding videography packages usually range from $1K to more than $15K. Most wedding videographers charge a rate based on the amount of time they render their professional services. Others out there offer a preset package which also includes other pieces such as an extra shooter or a same-day edit. Even if you are just planning to buy a standard package, it is very important that you run through the other offers and what’s included. Some wedding videographers will also base their pricing on the number of guests and venue of the place.

Most newly engaged lovers out there do not have much experience when it comes to finding the best wedding videographers that are affordable and easy to work with. It’s good to remember that every wedding videographer in the industry has their own style in terms of shooting as well as editing. Finding the perfect artist that fits with your tight budget can be a tough task to do. Aside from the cost, there are other factors that you must take into consideration such as, the style, creativity, equipment, experience and packages that are being offered in the world of wedding videography

STYLE

The styles of wedding videographers can vary. With this being said, it is quite tricky to find someone who can meet your expectations. Wedding videographers, just like the photographers, take different approaches and style to their craft. Documentary style wedding videos present the events in a chronological manner minus the special effects. They tend to lean on interviews of the guests and montages overlaid with snippets of conversation and catchy quotes

EXPERIENCE

Although expert wedding videographers are preferred, up-and-coming, or new artists in the wedding videography industry will not do you any harm. If they have the equipment and you’ve identified you’re preferred style of wedding videography, then it’s matter of finding the right match!

Choosing a Wedding Videographer

Even more than photographs, a wedding video truly captures the spirit and magic of your big day—in living color. And, thanks to advancements in digital technology, the quality of these videos has improved dramatically over the years. Instead of using the large, obtrusive analog (VHS) cameras that were standard 10 years ago, most videographers now shoot with small, discreet digital video cameras

Basic Service

“Point-and-shoot” videographers, as they’re known, provide only elementary documentation of your day, so they’re your least expensive option (around $1,000). If you’ve seen any of your friends’ wedding videos…well, you get the picture.

Tips on Finding The Right Videographer For You

The best way to find a reliable videographer who works in the style you want is to get recommendations from friends and family. Your wedding photographer might be able to provide you with a list of names, too; some photographers may even offer videography as part of their services

A New Twist: Documentary-Style Video

Want a wedding video that plays like a stylish HBO documentary or an independent film? Some videographers hold degrees in filmmaking or broadcast journalism, and they’ll strive to shoot your wedding like a “fly on the wall,” thoughtfully recording the event with a storyteller’s understanding of real, dramatic moments as well as a cinematographer’s eye for beautiful images.

The Ultimate Splurge: 8 or 16 mm film

The “couture” option is to have your wedding captured on motion picture film—8 mm, or even 16 mm, the format in which most of those lush, silky-looking Hollywood movies (think: The Aviator) are shot. While a “film version” of your wedding day is as glamorous as you can get, it’s also a luxury product—an hour’s worth of this type of film can cost the filmmaker as much as $2,000. In addition to covering the cost of the film itself, you’ll also pay $3,000 or more for the filmmaker’s time and talent. But the expense may be worth it to you, because these films are astounding, utterly gorgeous works of art.

HOW TO CHOOSE A WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER

Times have changed when it comes to filming a wedding. Back in the day it was Uncle Bob and his VHS recorder getting some zoom shots wherever possible (he’s still around by the way, he just uses an IPAD now) but now with the availability of lightweight professional DSLRs/cameras, the birth of social media and advances in mobile tech; wedding videos have become the new and refreshing way to share/memorise your big day.

Budget

Your low range videographers are likely to be new to the game, inexperienced, ill-equipped and/or still exploring the market. That’s not to say they’re not any good but you shouldn’t be expecting the same quality of work/content of a high end videographer. If there is no portfolio of work then you need to be happy to take the risk that your wedding video may have been best left to Uncle Bob but on the flip side of the coin you may bag yourself a talented individual who is charging low prices to break into the industry. If that’s the case, it would be important to at least see something they’ve shot, it doesn’t have to be wedding but it should at least reassure you that they know how to operate a camera and record some sound.

Your high end videographers however, should have a strong portfolio of creative work and are likely to have a very unique style (something else you need to consider). They will probably have years of experience with some pretty impressive (probably multiple) cameras, high end equipment and a strong track record of delivering exceptional, possibly even award-winning videos.  But understandably, and very fairly, all that experience and investment will come at a cost – but you are guaranteed to look like a superstar in your own movie.

Style

Do you want a cinematic dream-like film which makes your day appear as magically as it felt? Or do you want to belly laugh at a sneaky shot of Uncle Bob picking his nose in the corner of the room? Or do you want both? Do you want to be taken away from your guests so your videographer can direct some beautiful shots of you smooching, whispering I love you’s, having a laugh together and making you look like the stars of romantic movie or are you happy for your videographer to hide in the shadows, capturing the more natural moments as they happen so you can chill with your guests longer? Do you want speeches running over the top of your film or do you want music to be the main audio? Different videographers have different styles of delivering a wedding video, they are different artists, some are Banksy, some are Da Vinci! What style do you like? Do your research, find the videos you’re most drawn to and then find the videographers that can deliver that within your budget. Perhaps consider using key words in your searches “Cinematic Wedding Videographer” “Fun Wedding Videographer” “Naturalistic Wedding Videographer” “Alternative Wedding Videographer” “Eco-Friendly Wedding Videographer” etc etc

Personality

Your videographer is going to be interacting with your guests, with venue co-ordinators and with your photographer. If they’re an arse, you’re going to have trouble. Arrange a call maybe, just to gauge an idea of what they’re like to talk to, perhaps even push for a meet up

What does a Camera Operator do?

Camera operators are the ones behind the scenes operating film or video cameras to capture footage for televisions shows, commercials, documentaries, events, and film. Many camera operators specialize in shooting footage for a specific industry, such as those working in the film industry or those working for an advertising firm shooting commercials.

Job Description of a Camera Operator

Camera operators shoot footage with television or motion picture cameras to capture scenes for a director. They would need to be knowledgable in composition and lighting techniques to ensure the angle, lighting, and story of the scene is conveyed as intended. They would also use various lenses and filters when necessary to accurately capture the moment.

Camera operators work closely with others on the project such as directors, sound technicians, and lighting personnel as these all aspects must come together when it’s time to shoot. If there is movement to the shot, they may also need to plan out how their camera will move with the subject in order to produce a high-quality shot. Some camera operators also edit the footage for the project after the camera shoot.

What Soft Skills Will Help You Succeed in This Career?

Will you make a good camera operator? The answer to this question depends on whether you have specific soft skills. These are personal qualities you were either born with or acquired through life experience. Camera operators must be creative. They need excellent visual skills and eye-hand coordination. The ability to pay attention to detail is also essential. Camera operators collaborate with producers and directors, making superb listening and speaking skills a necessity.

What Employers Will Expect From You

Here are some requirements from actual job announcements found on Indeed.com:

• “Ability to walk and stand for long periods of time”
• “Can carry up to 50 pounds”
• “Ability to work flexible schedule, including nights and weekends”
• “Ability to work from a standing position for a 2-3 hour period”
• “Must be eager for unique camera shots”
• “Ability to multi-task and work in a high pressure fast paced environment, usually with tight and changing deadlines”
• “Must be available to work all shifts, including early mornings, evenings, holidays, and weekends”
• “Dedication, patience, and stamina are needed”

What skills are needed?

• Communication skills. Camera operators must communicate with other members of a production team, including producers and directors, to ensure that the project goes smoothly.
• Creativity. Camera operators should be able to imagine what the result of their filming or editing will look like to an audience.
• Hand-eye coordination. Camera operators need to be able to move about the action while holding a camera steady.
• Physical stamina. Camera operators may need to carry heavy equipment for long periods, particularly when they are filming on location.
• Visual skills. Camera operators must see clearly what they are filming or editing in the post-production process.

What is the career outlook?

Overall employment of camera operators is projected to grow 14 percent from 2018 to 2028, much faster than the average for all occupations.

The number of Internet-only platforms, such as streaming services, is likely to increase, along with the number of shows produced for these platforms. This growth may lead to more work for editors and camera operators.

Pros & Cons of Being a Cameraman

Being a cameraman is exciting, but it does have its moments of tedium. It’s a unique career choice for someone who is physical, focused and likes to be around action. Camera operators use digital equipment to capture live action for different forms of broadcasting. Having a background in photography or engineering is handy. College degrees are also helpful but not always required.

Pro: Close to the Action

Working as a cameraman can position you very close to the action. Camera operators are hired to capture live events for film or live broadcast. You could be called upon to film anything from a local flower show to a professional sports game. Cameramen see new and interesting things nearly every time they accept an assignment. You could be sitting across from a local celebrity one day and filming from the football sidelines the next. Operators are hired for jobs with conventions, news broadcasting and racing events. The field keeps you hopping and you’ll likely not have much time for just standing around.

Con: Long Work Hours

Since a cameraman is called upon to record live events, he usually works a fair share of evenings, weekends and holidays. Assignments can last over a period of days and a camera operator is usually needed to film various activities during that short period of time. When camera operators are hired for special events like weddings or graduations, they’ll work weekends too. It’s also hard to escape working holidays as many action-oriented events, like important games, happen around those times of the year as well.

Pro: Autonomy

While some camera operators are employed full-time by organizations, it is also a career that allows you to work as an independent contractor. Working independently affords you the ability to deny or accept assignments based on your needs and availability. When you work for yourself, you can choose the assignments that pay more or involve filming events that interest you. Once you build up a clientele, you may also be asked back by the same organizations when the events are repeated, thereby building in your own sense of job security.

Con: It’s Physical

Operating a camera for a living has its grueling moments. Often times, standing on your feet for long hours is expected. For example, filming a sporting event could require four or more hours on your feet just filming the game alone. In addition, many camera arrangements require setting up for several hours before the actual event takes place. Camera operators are usually expected to participate in all of these activities which also require carrying heavy equipment before, after and during the occasion.

Cinematographer jobs

(Also known as Director of Photography)

A cinematographer (or Director of Photography) is the person responsible for turning the Director’s creative vision into a production-feasible reality on screen.

The cinematographer or Director of Photography (DOP) is regarded as one of the most senior and most important people in the film creation process. The cinematographer must interpret the director’s instructions for obtaining a certain aesthetic for a film production, and use their technical skill to deliver against these demands by using specific film production, camera and lighting techniques to achieve a certain mood for the film.

Cinematography literally refers to the combined art and science of using a moving image camera. The cinematographer will take charge of camera and lighting crews, general responsibility for lighting the set, filtration and composition. The camera operator will still make their own calls on lens choice, but the DOP will consult with the Director to make final decisions on all visual aspects of the film.

Tips to Pick the Best Event Planners

Range of services and options

Accomplished event planners offer solutions to some of the bigger questions for their clients. For instance, if you need help coming up with a theme for your party or event, an event planner can provide you with a list of potential themes that they can easily access tools and resources for. For instance, if you would like to plan a casino night, your planner should be able to help you nail down games, tables and chairs, food, entertainment, and decor that will add to the overall atmosphere of the night, transporting your guests into a Vegas-inspired wonderland. When these tasks are left up to someone who is unfamiliar with the options available, disappointment is often the result. Be sure to ask your party planner for a list of party themes, vendors, and other resources that they frequently collaborate with. This will give you an idea of the range of services and options they provide for their clients.

Well-organized and professional

Typically it goes without saying that any company you hire for a service should be professional and well organized; unfortunately, looks can be deceiving. It is important to take into consideration what previous clients have to say about the event planner in question: do they have a reputation for professionalism? Can they organize an event on a strict time limit and budget? Successful event planning should rely on a company or team of individuals who has experience in the industry, particularly with managing other companies and people who will contribute something to the event. For instance, it is the event planner’s responsibility to manage time constraints of the event, but also to manage vendors, caterers, performers, or distributors who will add other services.

Flexibility

Because we aren’t all inherently party-planning experts, it is expected that not everything can go according to plan. This might mean that half of our guests could cancel their RSVP, or at the last minute more guests are being added to the list. It is an event planner’s job to go with the flow and make the event a success, no matter the adversity. Party planners should have a range of resources they can turn to in case of emergencies. Therefore, when hiring an event planner, you should always ask them how they face such challenges, and how they may handle a similar situation under pressure. The most important thing is that they remain accommodating to their client, and offer solutions to problems that alleviate his or her burden of stress.

things to look out for when choosing an event planner

Looking for the easy route

Whether you want to throw a Sweet Sixteen or an Artificial Intelligence conference, your event planner needs to be aware of the goals that need to be achieved. If your event planner allows details to fall through the cracks it can have a catastrophic effect on your event. A lazy event planner will more than likely take shortcuts and you can’t be sure these shortcuts won’t be with your budget, using cheaper vendors or event tech.

Know your planner’s score

Everything we do these days is online and it should be the same with event planners. Does your planner have a website, social media pages or a digital presence? These are all important factors to consider as you don’t want to work with someone who is clueless about the digital world. EventerScore allows you to test an event supplier’s commitment to their client by checking the quality of their digital user experience.

Planners who promise the moon and the stars but don’t deliver

Before planning an event it is likely that you will do a fair amount of research before approaching an event planner. However, some event planners may pull a disappearing act once you have signed on the dotted line so it is essential to make sure your event planner knows what you want from the start.

Questions To Ask When Hiring An Event Planner

What is their cancellation and refund policy?

Make sure you know the details of your event planners contract terms up front. If you have to cancel, postpone or dramatically change your event what will your event planner charge you? Most organisers will charge for hours and services already utilised, and any outlay they have already made. However, bear in mind that other suppliers such as the venue and caterer will have their own cancellation terms, so you may have to pay them additionally. Will your organiser take care of those arrangements for you?

How will they protect your event?

Your event planner should be up to date with all the latest health and safety regulations and be familiar with carrying out event specific risk assessments. They should possess their own event planning liability insurance and must ensure all of the event suppliers are also adequately insured.

What software and technology do they use?

Find out what tools they employ for project management, budgets, event websites, registration, ticketing and analytics/reporting and ensure they are using the best available. Using specialist event technology not only helps to ensure a well organised production, it can provide all sorts of added value.

Who will be working on your event?

You’ll want to know who your day-to-day contact will be and – if that’s not the person you are meeting with – arrange an introduction to ensure you have a good rapport. Other questions to ask include: Will there be a team of people working on my event or just one? Is there backup support if that person is not available or ill? Is there a limit to the number of meetings we can have prior to the event? If there is, how much will I be charged for additional meetings?

How to choose the right event planner

Only great event planners produce great events. Whether you are planning a corporate event or a social event, large and elaborate or even small and intimate event, the greatest favour you can do yourself is to have a great event planner organise the event for you.

Event planners are both planners and producers of events. Whether or not you know what type of event you are trying to produce, that is the theme, venue, guests, entertainment and the overall atmosphere, a great event planner has what it takes to create the perfect mood and atmosphere and to make a lasting positive impression in your guests’ minds.

Here are a few quick guides to choosing the right event planner for your next event.Service: If you know what type of event you want to hold, you should first list out your event needs, all the vital components to your event’s end result before starting the search for an event planner.

Event Planning Tips Every Budding Coordinator Needs to Know

Be a hero, save the day — and do it over again

There’s no way to teach this, but through experience, the best modern planners will become better at thinking on their feet. Why does it always feel like the one thing you didn’t have a backup plan for, is the only thing that goes awry?

If you rest, you rust

Invest in your learning. You spend all of your time bringing people together to celebrate, make connections or to educate themselves. What are you doing about improving the quality of your events?

Be proactive: Ask and you shall receive

It’s time for a bit of a role reversal. You’re accustomed to fulfilling as many requests from clients as possible. But, be sure that you’re also asking your partners to go the extra mile for you.

Find properties you trust & grow your network

The main reason planners spend so much time on site visits is that they don’t always have venues or contacts they trust in a given city. You could continue spending your time vetting meeting spaces with your own eyes, but you’d be better served exploring new human connections, that already have the answers you’re looking for.