Five minutes with Brentwood-based wedding photographer and videographer

I really want to capture our big day on video but my husband is convinced that there's no need to hire anyone as his uncle has a camcorder. What would you advise I do?

Andy Coultrup says: Your wedding is a day that deserves to be remembered in fine detail – just think of all the effort you, your partner and your families have put into making sure it's absolutely perfect. There's a lot to take into consideration – the venue, decorations, flowers, bridal party attire, the dress, hair and make-up, and the groom. I'm sure you'll agree it's a lot to remember to the untrained wedding mind. In this day and age everybody is able to make videos, either with their smart phones or small cameras, so it's very easy to believe a friend or relative can film the best day of your life. However, this would be a mistake for a number of reasons:

♥ One camera with limited battery life
A videographer will have a minimum of three devices on the day, with multiple batteries to ensure no moment is missed. Filming with multiple cameras provides better coverage, more editing options and most importantly a back-up should anything unexpected happen.

♥ Poor sound
A professional will carry expensive pro audio equipment, again having multiple options and back-ups. Sound is possibly the most important part of any wedding film as well as the most difficult part to get right – don't let an uncle's bad cough or the cry of a young guest spoil your magical memory.

♥ Editing Video
Software is not cheap, and the time and training that goes into understanding the full power of it can take years to master. By hiring a videographer, you're not only paying for the safe filming on your day but also the creative art and skill they have trained for.

♥ A wedding videographer may not be as costly as you think.
If you didn't add a videographer to your wedding budget list because you thought it might cost a lot, then be sure to re-consider your options. Shop around, contact videographers to find out what you can get for your money and be sure to compare prices depending on how long you'd like them to stay during the wedding – you may find yourselves pleasantly surprised.

For more information, visit www.chicmedia.co.uk