Although photographs have a definite place in our lives, capturing precious memories in static and enduring essence, our fast-paced visual world demands more to keep us stimulated and alert. From daring exploits and travelogues to sombre or celebratory occasions, we have the innate need to relive the experience in a more 3-dimensional way. Whilst we can use our resources on our phones or cameras to videotape our lives, the results will not always produce the professional results we are aiming for. This is why we call on experienced videographers to step in and capture the special moments and storylines of our lives for us.
Why use a Videographer?
Unless you have artistic and creative skills and a background in photography, it is more than likely that you will produce a video which is well-intended but lacking in clarity, and deficient in lighting at the most crucial times, together with unwanted video recordings which just “crept into” the final production. After all, who wants to see Aunt Ada’s varicose veins up close and personal? And the dog who photo-bombed the shot exactly when he needed to attend to the call of nature? Hmmm. Not ideal. In casual family- or friend-related events, such moments have little importance in the overall video recording, except for causing a certain amount of embarrassment or laughter. But when we come to more formal events, such as weddings, engagements, anniversaries or graduation ceremonies, athletic events, or even a toddler’s first faltering steps, to name a few, we are aiming for a polished production which will stand the test of time – in the best way.
Ensure the Videographer understands your vision
Calling in a videographer is a wise choice in ensuring that special events are preserved flawlessly and sympathetically, with the right settings and lighting, a clear soundtrack and close attention to particularly memorable moments. Videographers often operate independently or as part of a small team, which makes them ideal for blending into the background without intrusion. When selecting a videographer, it’s essential to ensure they fully understand your vision for the event – especially if you’re clear on the outcome you want. Do you want a formal approach or a more casual representation of the event? Do you want the videographer to concentrate on any particular aspects of the occasion or include everyone generally throughout? Do you want them to include shots which can be printed as final photographs? Do you want them to set the scene for atmosphere and ambience in their approach, or capture the occasion simply and in a relaxed and unplanned manner? Understanding how to visually communicate ideas and emotions is key to engaging an audience and producing a final visual and audio recording of the highest quality. There is a videographer for every need and every occasion.
Convey your story through professional video recordings
Videographers are professionals who are responsible for every aspect of the production process, including planning, filming, editing, and post-production. They must have an artistic and creative vision to tell a story within the video which is easily understood even by those who were not at the event. They know, during the final editing and post-production process, how to pace the recording to avoid boredom and hold the attention of the viewer, with no abrupt breaks in the narrative being shown. So, in a sense, they are creating a storyline of the event, cutting out the extraneous aspects and placing emphasis on what matters most. This is why it is so essential to hire a videographer who has a clear understanding of your vision and is attuned to your thinking process. There must be, as far as possible, a ‘meeting of the minds’ between the client and the videographer right from the outset. It is wise to check their portfolios beforehand to ensure that their style aligns with your wishes.
Look beyond the personal to the wider aspects of a Videographer’s craft
On a less personal level, videographers are tasked with creating promotional videos, training materials and corporate documentaries that communicate a company’s mission and branding across diverse audiences. With social media constantly evolving, many creators are looking to convey their advertising and identities with more professional and streamlined short videos which show professionalism and an enhanced presence which attracts attention and followers. For many investigative and adventurous creators, the introduction and versatility of drones enable wider exposure to their activities, but it helps to have a professional videographer in the driving seat, so to speak. This allows the creators to fully immerse themselves in leading and being the subject of the film, rather than worrying about the actual filming involved.
The role of Videographers is continuing to evolve
It is abundantly clear that the roles of videographers will only continue to increase as technology, demand, and our seemingly constant need to record our activities continue to grow. This is the ‘new visual’ era, and these professionals will be called on more and more often to assist in achieving these ambitions. After all, why do it yourself when you can get a professional to take control and produce a result which truly stands out? Videographers are those professionals who turn stories and life into permanent records which will stand the test of time.
