1. Understand Your Vision
So, you’re tying the knot and thinking about the video? Lekker! Now, decide if you want a full-on cinematic saga worthy of an Oscar, or something more down-to-earth, like a documentary that even your ouma will enjoy. Whether you’re after a short and sweet highlight reel or a full-length feature that could rival a Hollywood blockbuster, your choice will have an impact on your budget.
Choosing the right style is key because it sets the tone for your entire video. Do you want a tear-jerking, romantic film, or something that’s a bit more fun and casual? Whatever your vision, it’s important to communicate this clearly to your videographer from the get-go.
2. Set a Realistic Budget
So, how much is this going to set you back? In SA, getting a pro-level cinematic wedding video can range anywhere from R15,000 to R50,000—or more if you’re going all out. It’s a bit like buying biltong: the better the quality, the higher the price. Factors such as the videographer's experience, how much of the day you want covered, and the complexity of editing will all influence the final cost.
If you’re dead set on having a wedding video that’s as epic as a Springbok win, you’ll want to allocate around 10-15% of your total wedding budget to videography. For example, if you’re looking at a R300,000 wedding (because you only get hitched once, né?), setting aside R30,000 to R45,000 will help you secure a videographer who can make your big day look like the stuff of legends.
3. Research and Compare
Don’t be in such a rush that you just grab the first oke with a camera. Take your time, contact a few videographers, and compare their packages, services, and styles. Make sure you check out their previous work too—because let’s be honest, you want someone who can make your big day look like a million bucks, not a home video from the ‘90s. This way, you’re ensuring you get the best value for your hard-earned money.
Before you sign on the dotted line, take a good look at what past clients have to say. Reviews will give you the lowdown on whether a videographer is reliable or if they’ll have you stressing on your big day.
It’s easy to be tempted by a cheaper option, but in wedding videography, you usually get what you pay for. Remember, you don’t want someone who’ll make your wedding look like it was shot on a budget film set. Experienced videographers know how to capture the magic without getting in your way, and they’ve got the editing chops to turn hours of footage into a beautiful, emotional story that truly reflects your day. The true magic happens in post-production—so think twice before cutting corners on this one.
A Little Warning: We get it—weddings are expensive, and it’s tempting to go with a cheaper option. But here’s the thing: you get what you pay for. Going too cheap could leave you with a video that looks like your cousin shot it on his cellphone. And trust me, you don’t want to be watching blurry, shaky footage of your wedding years down the line.
Bonus Tip: When you book a more experienced videographer, you’re not just paying for top-notch video quality—you’re also investing in professionalism. An experienced pro will show up dressed to impress, blending seamlessly into your wedding with style and grace. Plus, they’ll bring a great personality to the day, helping to keep things relaxed and enjoyable while still capturing every important moment. Your wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and it deserves the best! At Deep Field Films, we pride ourselves on providing exactly that—exceptional service and cinematic quality that turns your special day into a masterpiece.
4. Book Early
Let’s be real—if you want the cream of the crop, you need to act fast. The best videographers in SA are snapped up quicker than a half-price boerewors roll at a braai, especially during peak wedding seasons. If you find someone who ticks all your boxes and fits your budget, don’t sit on it! Secure them as soon as possible, because if you snooze, you lose—and you don’t want to be left with second best for your big day.
5. Payment Plans
Let’s be honest, weddings can cost a pretty penny, and not everyone’s got a stash of gold under the mattress! Thankfully, many videographers understand this and offer flexible payment plans to keep things manageable. Usually, you’ll need to put down a deposit to secure your booking—so make sure you’ve got that sorted before you get too carried away with the cake tastings! The rest can often be paid off closer to the big day, which means less stress and more time to enjoy planning. Think of it as the wedding version of lay-by, just with a lot more love involved!
6. Clear Communication
Congratulations, you’ve secured your videographer! Now, it’s time for a sophisticated tête-à-tête about your vision. Don’t simply assume that your videographer will know that your great-aunt’s impromptu poetry reading or that stunning sunset shot is a must-have. Be precise and clear about the key moments you want captured and any particular nuances that are important to you. Think of it as ordering at an upscale restaurant—if you want the steak rare, darling, you mustn’t shy away from saying so. Good communication is the cornerstone of ensuring your wedding video is nothing short of a masterpiece.
By following these steps, you’re not just ensuring a wedding video; you’re creating a heartfelt, cinematic story of your special day. In South Africa, where weddings are a rich tapestry of culture, color, and emotion, choosing a professional videographer means investing in more than just memories. It’s about capturing the spirit of your celebration in a way that you and your loved ones can revisit and relive for years to come. Trust in the process, and your wedding video will become a cherished keepsake—a beautiful reminder of the love, laughter, and joy that filled your day.
Visit us at www.deepfieldfilms.co.za to learn more.