Samples
To decide on the right videographer for your wedding day, first and foremost you'll need to see samples of their work. Viewing only demos gives you a look at only their best work so ask to see complete weddings. You don't need to watch them in their entirety; skip around a bit to get a good cross-section of the type of work they do. Contracts can vary so read the fine print carefully and be aware of the payment terms. Most companies will require a deposit when you book their services.

Shooting VS Editing
Shooting the video is only half of the equation. While it's important to find someone who's experienced with proper camera angles, lighting and sound, you need to find someone who is a creative editor as well. That's what puts the polish on the final product you receive. Creative and skilled digital editing can greatly increase the value of your wedding video, giving you memories you'll cherish forever. Some videographers shoot weddings using a method known as "live switching", meaning they edit as they shoot. This saves the videographer time and money as they do no editing later. It also involves running cables all over the place, creating a hazard for your guests. We highly recommend choosing someone who uses a multiple camera setup and edits later.

Equipment
While skill and talent are the most important aspects for creating a quality wedding video, professional equipment and the use of multiple cameras can go a long way to producing a higher quality product. The best equipment is, of course, digital 3 CCD (3 chip) cameras and non-linear editing capabilities (totally digital work done on a computer). Other formats that may still be in use include Hi8, S-VHS and VHS. If you're talking to a videographer that uses VHS, walk away. The amateur quality will disappoint you and it isn't worth any price savings. As for the other formats, they really can't compare in quality to digital so we recommend finding a videographer with higher-end equipment. While adequate coverage can be achieved using only one camera, two or more are recommended as it gives more options when editing. Make sure the videographer has backup equipment in case of malfunction.

Sound
As for capturing the sound, the best choice is digital sound recorders which can be placed at specific locations like the podium or in the groom's pocket. While this has to be synchronized later at the editing stage, the difference in quality over built-in or wireless microphones is unmistakable. Make sure when viewing samples of the videographer's work that you pay close attention to the sound quality, especially at moments like saying the vows.

Special Effects
Some videographers will add introductory footage showing the couple's early years set to music. Often this is produced in advance so it can be shown at the reception. Broadcast quality titles and graphics plus tastefully produced transitions like dissolves and multi-layer effects can be added at the editing stage. If these things are important to you, ask to see samples and what the additional costs will be.

The Final Product
If quick delivery of your wedding video is important to you, ask the videographer how long you can expect to wait. On average, it takes about 4 hours of editing per hour of footage shot. A quality product should never be rushed. As to length, most people agree that a half hour is too short but four hours is way too long. Choose a videographer that tries to stick to 1 1/2 to 2 hours - the typical length of a Hollywood movie. The videographer should create a master tape from which your final VHS or DVD can be made. Even if you only have a VHS machine, keep in mind that tapes can wear out so it's a good idea to get a DVD as well for archiving.