Frequently Asked Questions
We always like to work on a client to client basis. After consulting with you we can then decide on what the best approach will be, taking into consideration your style and personality. We like to be as unobtrusive as possible.
How are you different from other wedding videography companies?
First of all we believe that audio is very important! We love it when couples write their own vows, when the officiant says something really profound or when there are speeches during the reception. We then use all the amazing audio we capture to tell the story of your wedding. Another key component that we feel is very important is editing. The editing plays just as important a part in your wedding film as the actual filming does. You still need to have the skills to shoot, white balance, and compose shots properly but the ability to craft a story from footage while utilizing the audio from your wedding day is a skill in and of itself.
I have a photographer. Why hire a professional videographer, too?
We personally feel that video captures the emotions, the sounds, the energy, the vibe, and the feel of your wedding day in a way that still photos just can’t.
My friend is upset that her video was only 20 minutes long & didn’t even have the full ceremony. What do you include?
Depending on the time frame you ask us to be at your wedding, your video could include your entire ceremony from start to finish and the full toasts, as well as any other moments that we know you would want to see. You’ll also want our most popular feature, which is a wedding highlight film with the best moments of your day set to music. If you choose other features such as a Save the Date video, Love Story video, Same Day Edit video and Photo Slideshow, those would also be included.
What about a photo montage, video of the rehearsal or extra time?
If you have any questions that are not covered on this page, or would like to add some optional items to your packages, see our Packages page for more details.
What is the difference between a wedding highlight video and a wedding film?
Although you’ll certainly watch your entire wedding video over the years, chances are you’ll watch your wedding film or highlight video hundreds of times. A highlight video is made of clips from the best moments of your wedding day set to music. Wedding films are typically longer (about 15-20 minutes), include live audio of your vows, toasts, etc. as well as music in the background, and can either be sequential or not based on your preference. Many couples prefer wedding films because of their emotional impact.
Do you film all types of ceremonies?
Yes! we love to film for different ceremonies, Greek, Jewish, Hindu, Muslim, Civil Partnerships etc..you name it we do it. We also film Baptism/Christenings. (Please contact us for details & prices.)
What will I receive?
All of our couples receive their wedding video by digital delivery. DVD, Blu-ray, and USB flash drive are available as additional options.
How long is the video?
Your wedding video is comprised of two main sections. First is your Highlight Reel, which is a 3-5 minute video that captures all of the highlights of the day. The Highlight Reel is perfect to show friends and family who want a glimpse into your day, without the time constraints of a feature-length video. The second segment is a thorough documentation of your day, featuring the entire ceremony, main reception events and dancing selections from the entire night! The video offers a complete photojournalistic representation of your day that either can be enjoyed in a short amount of time or through a complete viewing experience!
Why would I receive a USB/flash drive with all of my finished digital files?
DVDs, although great, do deteriorate and stop working over time. This is known as disc rot. So receiving your finished files digitally on a USB/Flash Drive will allow you to copy the files to multiple computers, multiple hard drives and/or store them in the Cloud for safe keeping and future proofing. It’s important that once you receive your files to take the proper steps to backup and safeguard your investment. Also, to prolong the life of your DVDs you always want to keep them in their cases when not in use.
Do you have additional services like rehearsal coverage or raw footage?
Yes! Contact us for more information and we’ll help you get exactly what you’re looking for!
Can we control the videographer’s level of interaction?
You can control your videographer’s level of interaction by indicating your desires during the final consultation.
How much input do I have in the final product?
Prior to your event you will fill out a profile that discusses content, style, music and effects.
I already hired my wedding photographer. do you get along with other wedding vendors?
Absolutely! In fact we have many, many friends in the wedding business who refer us to their own couples.
Why do you require a non-refundable retainer and contract for your wedding videography service?
Very simply it shows us you are serious about hiring Atlantic Wedding Video and it also allows us to book and hold your date for only you.
Can we meet before the wedding?
Of course, we would love to meet you before the wedding face to face, and actually appreciate it as it enables us to get to know you better and therefore do our job better.
Why can’t I use that song I heard on the radio?
It all comes down to what is legal. Just like paying sales tax buying the license to music is so important to keep us legal and to keep us in good standing with music providers and Federal copyright laws. Buying a song from iTunes and using it as a music track for your wedding film is highly illegal and can come with very hefty fines and penalties. We have 4 online sources where we license our music and they’re all outstanding! The music is amazing and since we only use each song we license just once the music chosen for your wedding film really becomes YOUR music.
NOTE: All of the wedding films on this site use licensed music.
Can we choose our own music?
We recommend that couples give us around 10 songs that they really love, that gives us plenty of music to play around with and use at our discretion, this way we are using music that you like, but does not hinder our artistic license.
Do you use bright lights?
No. Our cameras have excellent optical chips, and lenses that can capture video as low as one lux. That is the same as shooting by candlelight. We use the optics of the camera to obtain the maximum quality video under the given conditions. In some rare occasions we use small, camera mounted lights to add to the ambient light, but only where permitted. Some locations such as churches, do not allow using any lighting at all. We are well versed in all the limitations of different locations, and in getting the best video captured by our professional video cameras.
Do you give us the raw footage?
We are happy to give you the raw footage, but we’re pretty sure that you aren’t going to want it. Giving you the raw footage is like a baker giving you the ingredients for your cake but not baking it. We promise to include every moment that would be important to you.
What kind of equipment do you use?
We use high definition digital video cameras, fluid-head tripods, & high end lapel microphones.
What if I like to have my guests interviewed.
We can do that! You just let us know who you would like us to interview and we will make sure that we make that happen for you. We always suggest interviews for close family members and elders.
I will be very nervous before the wedding ceremony; do we really need to shoot the pre-ceremony footage of the bride getting ready?
No. The pre-ceremony footage of the Bride and/or Groom getting ready is part of the package for people who wish to take advantage of it. This is included in the package at no extra charge, but it is totally up to you whether to use it or not.
Can my family and friends order DVDs?
Of course! We offer two ways of your friends and family ordering your wedding DVD. Either you can order all the DVDs for everyone (and we will offer a discount on the discs if 10 or more are ordered at one time) or we can place the DVDs up for sale on our site so your friends and family can order a disc themselves.
Will you use a tripod at our wedding?
We use either hand held, glide cams, monopods or fluid head tripod mount as needed, depending on the locations conditions or restraints. The requirements of the Minister, Priest, Rabbi or Coordinator are all taken into consideration. We will work with your locations representative and figure out what works best for the cleanest, best image we can shoot.
How do I reserve my wedding date?
We will send you a contract for your personalized package. We request 1/3 of your package’s price to reserve your date.
What is a Same Day Edit video?
With a Same Day Edit, instead of waiting months to see your wedding video, you and your loved ones will get to experience your own private viewing of the best moments of your bridal prep, first look, photo session and wedding ceremony right at your reception. It’s your first glimpse at moments you weren’t there to see (the bride’s mom when she sees her daughter put on her dress, the flower girls galloping down the aisle while flinging rose petals). Plus any guests who couldn’t attend your wedding can watch your Same Day Edit video online the very next day.
Do you still film the reception while creating the Same Day Edit video?
Yes. After your ceremony, one videographer will edit the video while the other films your photo session and dinner. Your same-day edit video is typically ready to view during or immediately after dinner.
What is a Save the Date video?
Save the Date Videos are a modern twist on the old postcards. We can create a slideshow of the two of you dating leading up to your engagement or we can do a video shoot of the two of you at the location of your proposal, where you met or where you had your first date.
What is a Love Story video?
This is your chance to share the story of your romance, filmed at the locations of your choice. We’ll ask you and your fiancé questions about how you met, what your first impressions of each other were, the first date, the proposal, and more. Many couples play it for their guests to watch at the reception.
How long in advance should we book you?
As soon as you have a confirmed secure date you can book us, we only take on a limited number of commissions every season to ensure great customer service, during the summer months we get numerous inquiries for the most popular dates. Most of our weddings are booked at least a year in advance.
How much is the deposit?
We usually take payments as 1/3 of the total cost as the first payment to secure the date as a non refundable deposit, the second payment is due 10 days prior to the wedding, and the final payment is due once the edit is completed. We do not consider the date booked with us until the deposit is paid and a booking form signed.
I loved working with you! How can I help others find you?
Thank you! We want to spread the word as much as you do. The best places to leave feedback are independent review sites like Yelp, Wedding Wire and The Knot. We appreciate your kind feedback, as it helps give us continue to serve our happy couples for years to come!
How many cameras will the videographer use at my wedding?
We believe the best way to capture a truly photojournalistic wedding ceremony is with two to three video cameras. Using two angles, we can achieve better coverage, multiple shots and more audio signals for a superior final video that you’re sure to treasure forever!
How long is the video?
Your wedding video is comprised of two main sections. First is your highlight edit, which is a 2- to 3-minute video that captures all of the highlights of the day. The highlight reel is perfect to show friends and family who want a glimpse into your day, without the time constraints of a feature-length video. The second segment is a thorough documentation of your day, featuring the entire ceremony, main reception events and dancing selections from the entire night! The video offers a complete photojournalistic representation of your day that either can be enjoyed in a short amount of time or through a complete viewing experience!
Why do you use wireless microphones?
In order to give your wedding the highest quality audio and video possible, we use a wireless microphone during the ceremony in order to perfectly capture your vows. This can be attached to either the bride or the groom. You can request not to use the wireless microphone, but keep in mind that this is the best way to capture your vows.
What happens if my photographer or videographer gets sick on my wedding day?
For every wedding we shoot, we always have at least one certified lead photographer and lead videographer who are paid to be ready for any emergency. Our photographers and videographers are on a rotating backup schedule to ensure that we have a qualified professional available at a momentʼs notice.
Do you shoot anything else besides weddings?
Of course! If you need some kind of other video then you can check out our sister company OddBox Studios.
Find Out More
Find out more about pricing, availability, and how Atlantic Wedding Video can perfectly capture your once-in-a-lifetime experience. Simply reach out to us by email, phone, or social media and we'll set up a time to talk!
Still images courtesy of Nichole Haun Photography