What To Look For While Hiring A Videographer?

People use videographers for different types of videos. It can be for wedding coverage, event coverage, to promote your brand or to capture videos of your product. If you are hiring a videographer for the first time, then you will be nervous. Don’t worry. You can use this guide to ensure that you select the right videographer.

Things To Look For While Hiring A Videographer

In this article is a list of ten things that you need to look out for while hiring a videographer. You can use these factors as the checklist for hiring videographers.

1. Quality

Video quality should be your priority. It involves both equipment quality and production quality.So, you should see multiple videos made by the videographer to ensure that he/she has excellent post-production skills.

Some videographers will follow the same story flow for all of their works. There is nothing unique in these types of videos. So, don’t waste your time and money with such videographers.

You can look for their previous videography works. It will be available on their website or social media profiles. Don’t fix anyone by merely seeing the trailer or demo reel alone. Sometimes, short demos may be impressive. But, the actual video will be uninteresting. So, see the full videos to come to a decision.

2. Pricing

Cost is a matter of concern. You will have to decide your budget first. You can start looking for videographers in your area after determining the budget.

The best way to get the pricing details is to contact them directly. You can get the pricing estimates from videographers. It will help you to choose one accordingly.

Please make sure that the rates are affordable for you. Make a rate comparison between different videographers. It will help you to know the pricing in your area.

Also, don’t go for very cheap videographers. You will be compromising the video quality.

3. Location

The location of the video shoot is another important aspect. Don’t go for a broader search like countrywide or statewide. Do areawise search. For example, you may be looking for video production in Lancaster.

Make sure that you confirm the location of the videographer first before searching. It will save you a reasonable amount of time.

4. Testimonials

You need to look for reviews and testimonials. Check their social media profile to see the feedback from earlier customers. You can also check their website.

You can also check with your friends or relatives who have used the videographer’s service. It will be the best review that you can get.

5. Videographer’s Experience

It will be a good idea to avoid amateurs and inexperienced videographers. So, check for their experience in videography.

Only an experienced videographer will know the various composition techniques and different lightings to use in different scenarios.

Experience also matters when it comes to video post-production. Video transitions and blending will be perfect if executed by an experienced videographer. Otherwise, you may end with unnecessary headaches throughout the shoot.

6. Equipment

The equipment that the videographer owns also matters. Video quality is dependent on the equipment. So, you need to ensure that he/she owns the right type of camera and other equipment for shooting videos.

Another thing to check is the lighting equipment. Videography requires good control over lighting. So, most of the shoot demands for artificial lights, especially indoor shoots.

You can get all these equipment details from the videographer’s website.

 

Reasons to Hire a Freelance Videographer in 2020

For any type of event these days, the pleasure is with sharing the moments with others – be it social media, on the corporate website, or even screening. People tag each other in meaningful videos, photos, and posts all day around on social media. The growth of communications obligates people to cover events with a more professional eye. Nevertheless, not all of us can afford to hire a company for our events, we look at professional freelancers instead. Here are 3 reasons to hire a freelance videographer:

“Mobile video traffic will account for 75% of total mobile data traffic in 2020“

1. Hire a Freelance Videographer for the Attention to details (..and emotions)

The freelance videographer will only be working on your event, they might need help but they’ll contact their people. Nevertheless, professionals freelancing are hard to spot. Here’s a hint, they all do and you can find a Freelance Videographer on Xpertin. With their own personal perceptions, they will manage emotions and attention to detail in every picture. A personalized personal touch.

2. Hire a Freelance Videographer for the Best in class equipment & Personalization

Freelance videographers keep the best equipment and the most suitable for them personally. They produce better-personalized content because they personalize their relationships with their camera and lens. They keep it tidy and neat and always have backups. In Dubai, they’re usually juggling 3. bags at the same time, containing all the equipment and accessories they need to do their job perfectly.

3. Beyond the Videography. Editing Plays an Important part Too

Photography and videography are both skills and very good ones. But, to include editing with both is a trademark of a freelance videographer. Today, freelance videographers have skills in restructuring any video, whether taken from a drone, a still lens or moving ones. Moreover, they buy and use the best in class software available to ensure the work is done right and fast.

 

A List Of The Most Common Mistakes People Make When Choosing A Videographer.

1. Choosing the vendor offering the lowest prices.

Weddings and events are an expensive affair. From the venue to decorations and food, everything is essential and has a price. While managing everything under a budget is necessary, settling for an average videographer is not a great way to go about it. Experienced professionals often charge more than the average professional, but they offer value for your money as they are skilled, efficient, and creative.

2. Hiring a videographer for a fixed time frame.

It is not uncommon for an event or wedding schedule to be delayed by for some reason or another. Maybe the bride needs a little more time to get ready, wedding jitters, or the event cannot start as the special guest hasn’t arrived yet. Whatever the reason, it is crucial to keep these contingencies in mind when planning a schedule and appointing a videographer. This will help you avoid stress and additional costs.

3. Not asking questions about their technical skills.

Whether it is a three-minute highlight video or complete event coverage, several elements go into creating video content. While some videographers specialize in handling complete video solutions, others only deal with specific special effects. If you have any special requirements regarding effects, editing, music, etc. then you need to discuss them with the videographer before enlisting their services.

Besides, they can advise you on whether your ideas complement your event and video style. Creating a video takes collaboration between all parties, so trust the videographer to make the right creative decisions.

 

Why Do I Need A Videographer?

Having a videographer is quickly becoming a must rather than a want at weddings. That is because no matter how wonderful your photographer is, there is nothing quite like watching the real thing in real time. However, trying to convince the bride that videography is just as important as photography on their wedding day is one of the biggest challenges in the industry. Many brides don’t realize how important their film is until after the wedding. Consequently, more newlyweds, nearly 98%, now recommend that couples have their weddings professionally filmed.

When looking for a videographer, there are five main points you should keep in mind. These will more or less help decide which one is the right fit for you.

1. Hire a wedding videographer. Sounds obvious, I know. Weddings are special and intimate. They require someone with an extensive knowledge of how to get the important shots, yet be respectful and discreet at the same time. Wedding videographers have a passion for what they do and you will want that reflected in your video. However, a surprising amount of couples will hire someone who bought a camera, shot a friends wedding, and then knighted themselves a videographer. Another misconception is that all videographers are the same. You may have a friend in the ‘television and film industry’ that is willing to shoot your wedding for $500, but weddings are completely different from any other type of film genre. Paying a premium for someone with years of experience in wedding videography will pay off in the final product.
2. Do you like your videographer? Again, this may sound obvious, but it remains one of the key factors that will determine whether or not you will like your wedding video. You will be spending a lot of time together on your wedding day, and will likely be staying in contact for many months after. Having a good rapport with your videographer ensures that they know what is important to you. Good wedding videographers know that your wedding day is about you and not them. They should get your vibe, get your relationship and not cramp your style. You should steer clear of anyone with a ‘diva-like’ attitude who is unwilling to be a bit flexible.
3. Consider the shooting style. Do you like videos with lots of movement? Do you like traditional or cinematic? Every videographer has his own style of shooting. When you are doing your research and visiting different videographers sites, pay attention to what you like. When you meet with the videographer, you should have the opportunity to see a range of different weddings. Do the videos hold your attention, or did you get bored after a minute or two? Chances are, if you enjoy watching a video of a total stranger, then you will love your own wedding film.
4. Consider the editing style. There are lots of different ways your wedding video could end up looking, so make sure that you like the editing style of your videographer. Simple is better. Couples think that adding in a myriad of special effects will make their video more interesting. Usually the reverse is true; it ends up making the video dated. Good shooting to begin with needs very little ‘dressing up’ in the post production. However, note that it is normal to have a few minor errors during a long video.
5. It isn’t all about the price. If you are solely basing your choice on price, then you may be in for a huge disappointment when your wedding video arrives. It can be overwhelming, even shocking sometimes, when you start to price out videographers. But when you consider that 9 out of 10 brides polled after their wedding regret not hiring a videographer, it puts a different spin on things. Be skeptical of cheap quotes. Creating a quality wedding video requires a good length of time and extensive, up to date equipment. When you pay for a videographer’s service you are paying for his talent of shooting and the time it takes to edit the footage. You should plan to pay at least as much as you would for a professional photographer.

 

Why You Should Hire a Professional Trade Show Videographer

Putting on a trade show can be a lot of work. From coordinating a venue, booths, catering, guest speakers, and a plethora of other responsibilities, it takes efficient planning, long hours, and a little bit of luck to make sure your trade show goes on without a hitch. But from a marketing standpoint, their benefits are innumerable. The exposure that you can get from a successful trade show can change the course of your company. That’s why it’s imperative that you hire a trade show videographer who can document every aspect of your show. These videos can be useful for you and your employees as well as any potential customers.

The Lead-Up

Before your trade show even starts, you need to be able to properly promote it. The lead-up to your trade show is almost as important as the show itself because people need to be enticed to visit. A videographer can help you make promotional videos detailing exactly what the trade show will entail.

Focusing on incentives is crucial. How can your clients benefit from attending your show? Are you showcasing a new product? Short videos posted on your website or social media profiles serve to give your clients a taste of what they can expect. These videos build momentum and can get people excited about your show.

Although e-mail blasts, newsletters, and physical invitations are effective, they cannot communicate the same amount of information as a well-made video. A video is also more likely to stick in the minds of your clients, ensuring that your upcoming trade show stays on their radar.

Show People What You Can Do

A high-quality video of your trade show can go a long way to present your company and your products in a positive light. The video should feature your best and brightest employees and your most innovative products.

Some companies opt to screen entertaining and informative videos at their tradeshows. The right trade show videographer can turn these videos into additional marketing tools at your event. Take this as an opportunity to communicate your brand’s message that appeals to your target audience. Let your company’s personality shine while giving your products and services a high-tech, visual advertising platform.

Reach A Wider Audience

As stated before, a trade show gives you the best opportunity to demonstrate your skills and expertise to potential clients. But it’s not always easy for businessmen and women with packed schedules to attend shows in person. Whether you are organizing the entire show or just reserving a booth, you want to make sure that your pitch reaches as many people in your target demographic as possible.

Hiring a videographer for your trade show allows you to set up a live feed of the event that you can stream from your website. It’s best to hire a professional for these events because they know to focus on the highlights. Just setting up a live feed with a laptop can result in a lot of downtime and dead air. You’ll not only lose viewers, but you’ll miss out on valuable advertising time.

If adequately promoted, streaming live video from your trade show can increase your consumer base by tenfold.

Critique Yourself

A video of your trade show gives you and employees the opportunity to critique your performance. What went right? What didn’t go so right? Learn from any mistakes you make so you don’t repeat them.

The benefit of this practice is that you can make sure your trade shows get better and better for you and your customers.

Things to Include in Your Wedding Photography Contract

As a new Wedding Photographer, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of booking your first wedding. With all of the details that go into the booking process, it can get confusing when you start to put together your Wedding Photography contract. What do you include? What do you not include? How long should it be? These thoughts are all perfectly normal, and the key to creating a contract that will cover all of your bases, as well as allow your clients to clearly understand their expectations from you and vice versa.

RESCHEDULING CLAUSE FOR CLIENTS

This is such an important piece to cover in your Wedding Photography contract. Many times couples start planning their wedding before confirming all vendors’ availability. If any other of their preferred vendors is unavailable on their requested day, they might want to reschedule the wedding.

RESCHEDULING CLAUSE FOR WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

That’s right! Even you, the Wedding Photographer, need a rescheduling clause. It is your responsibility to be at the wedding, no matter what. The couple has paid you a good chunk of change for you to capture their big wedding day. Unless you have a physical impediment, you need to be there.

DELIVERY TIMELINE

Always be sure to have a guaranteed date on your contract! My delivery timeline states that the couple will receive their images within 90 business days from their wedding day. Many couples have specific ideas in mind to do with their images, and having a set time will ensure that their timeline is accurate.

OUTDOOR WEDDING VENUES

As a wedding photographer, you know how important (and expensive) it is to maintain quality equipment. This clause is vital for your sake and the sake of your clients as well. Weather is such a tricky thing to predict in advance. If inclement weather has the potential to ruin your equipment, then it is unfair to both parties.

 

Mistakes To Avoid When Hiring A Wedding Photographer

Some of the first things newly engaged brides do is go dress shopping, reserve a ceremony and reception location, and hire a wedding photographer. Chance are, this is the first time any of them have hired a wedding photographer. It can be an intimidating and overwhelming experience, filled with explanations of packages, prices, albums, contracts, portfolios, and what’s the difference between flush mount and matted albums again? In an effort to give you a few pieces of advice, ISPWP member photographers have provided a few insights into what mistakes you should definitely avoid when hiring a wedding photographer. Many ISPWP photographers have the experience of shooting hundreds of weddings so they’ve seen it all.

Don’t Make the Mistake of Overlooking the Photographer’s Personality

When you are hiring a wedding photographer, don’t hire someone whom you don’t really like on a personal basis! Their photos might be great, but remember that your photographer is going to be a very substantial participant in your wedding day, not only capturing your memories, but becoming a big part of them! So make sure you’re comfortable with their personality. If you find your photographer irritating, abrasive, or if you think their jokes are cheesy, keep looking. You REALLY don’t want to look at your wedding photos, and think “Oh wow, remember the incredibly inappropriate joke the photographer told right before he shot this?” or “That guy got on my nerves – I remember feeling irritated with him as this photo was being taken.” Your day is about your happiness, first and foremost. The most beautiful photo in the world won’t mean as much if your memory of the photography experience sours it!

Don’t Make the Mistake of Prioritizing Products Over the Photography

If you have a limited budget for wedding photography, invest the money in the photographer and not the album. If you look for a less expensive photographer so you can have money left over for an album, you will likely end up with bad photos in a pretty package. You are better off with great photos in a shoe box. You can always get an nice album down the road after you win the lottery or get that big raise, but if your photos are bad you are out of luck

Don’t Make the Mistake of Expecting Pro Results From an Amateur Photographer

I can’t tell you how many brides I’ve had come in to look at my albums, and tell me: “My sister got married last year. They had Uncle take their pictures because he only charged them $200. But she didn’t get a single picture from her wedding that she likes.  Every time she looks at her pictures, she cries.” The biggest mistake a bride can make is to undervalue her wedding photography. Countless brides have tried to save a few dollars by hiring a friend, or having a family member take their wedding photos. And countless brides have little but tears to show for it. Think of professional wedding photography as an investment in your future joy. It will cost a little now (although it will cost less than the food you serve at your wedding), but it will pay off in great dividends, as you enjoy the memories for the rest of your life.

Don’t leave your wedding photography up to chance! “Cheap” doesn’t necessarily mean good, and “good” doesn’t mean cheap! Do you want to risk one of the most important days of your life to an inexperienced photographer

 

Things Your Wedding Photographer Should Be Able To Do

There are a lot of lists out there of “Questions you should ask your Wedding Photographer.” Instead of giving you a list of questions, I thought I might just mention some things that your wedding photographer should be able to do. This isn’t necessarily a comprehensive list but if someone tells me they are a professional wedding photographer

Behave in a Professional Business Manner

Does he return emails and phone calls? Does he deliver in a timely manner?  If your wedding photographer never calls you back and says he’ll need 8 weeks to deliver your images, be afraid. You want a committed professional who is determined to give you good service and great images.

Pose People

Posing people can be very important. I’m not just talking about posing a bridal party or posing a big family group. Posing can be so much more. Sometimes it’s just a little direction for the bride and groom, a little “tweek” that can make all the difference in how the pictures turn out.  Look for both types of posing when you look for a wedding photographer. Make sure they can pose a group or a couple but also look for images that look natural and have a sense of “flow.” Odds are, he posed those pictures too

Use Natural Light

One of the first things that you have to learn as a photographer is how to see light. It can take years to develop the ability to see light the way the camera sees it and then figure out how to use that light to your advantage.  Sometimes it means using natural light to create a great image and other times you are in a situation where the natural light is actually hurting your images… and if you can’t recognize the problem and fix it, you will have bad wedding pictures. Harsh shadows, lens flare, etc have ruined many a picture.

Use Off-Camera Flash

Taking the flash off the camera and putting it on a tri-pod or handing it to an assistant makes a huge difference in the quality of your images. It can be used to create amazing portraits, to light a dark room and even to create a dynamic light source that wouldn’t exist otherwise.  There are still many photographers who refuse to learn how to light their clients but I’ve always felt that you are only hurting yourself by not having that option.

 

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Apart from choosing that dress, perhaps the most important decision of the whole wedding process is finding the right photographer to capture and record those perfect moments you’re going to be looking back at forever

His images almost seem to lean out and touch you, they’re bursting with life and energy and rarely seem to linger on still moments, and we love him for it. Able to sum up a day in a single image

An artist behind the lens and thoroughly nice guy away from it, is very adept at putting everyone at ease which allows him to shoot his brilliantly candid, documentary-style photos that perfectly sum up the drama, emotions and tenderness of your day. Never posed, always honest, the man’s a lens flashing genius!

certainly not when it comes to wedding photography. It’s perhaps this disregard for the rules (he was once a computer hacker) that lead this photo artist to have his work appear in Brides, The Telegraph, The Times, Elle and even Vogue. The fact that you can have this award-winning photographer’s work on your home is truly exciting for anyone lucky enough to secure his services.

THIS is what a wedding looks like! They’re not posed, should never appear stuffy or uncomfortable, they’re happy, full of crazy/silly/unexpected moments and has that amazing knack of being in the right place at the right time to record those “Yes, that was our day” moments that really do bring those special memories back to life. The fact that he manages to make those images look like something from a high-end fashion magazine is further proof of his talents and why he’s hit

 

things to know before you hire a wedding photographer

Expensive doesn’t always mean good – There are so many wedding planning blogs like wedmegood , sayshaadi , weddingsutra which have a detailed directory of photographers in your area . Do a thorough research when it comes to pricing . The end result might be the same quality wise ( not style wise)  if we compare two photographers but you see a huge difference in the price . Why a certain photographer is charging what he/she is charging? What value is he/she bringing to the table apart from the photographs ? There can be plethora of reasons behind the same – huge inventory of equipment , industry experience , targeting a different set of market altogether or photography being the sole earning for them.

Know your style preference – Do not hire a wedding photographer just because your best friend hired them . Your taste & preferences would be very different from your friends and it might result in utter disappointment if there is a style clash . Trust me no matter how good a photographer is , nothing can be done if their shooting/post-processing style is very different from your expectations

Full wedding sets – Never ever just go by the few pictures you saw on the slideshow of the photographer’s website . If you like a certain photographer’s style , always ask them to send you the full wedding set . Any decent photographer who is in the industry can make 10 wonderful images on your wedding day but you need someone who can make each image look like a masterpiece . That’s what you are paying for ! Try to analyse the quality across the wedding set , how good the photographer has communicated the story , if he or she is good with night photography or they have killed the ambient light by bombarding flash recklessly . Using flash is not a bad thing as many think , as long as your photographer knows how to use it.

Make sure your wedding photographer is not just a “weekend photographer” – you want a professional photographer, someone who is doing this as their sole living as they are better equipped with the gear ( backup equipment , better storage solutions) , more experienced and in my opinion , are far better in their work as they have dedicated their life to create art . They chose to do it because they absolutely love it and not to earn some extra cash over the weekend . This will ensure that you not only receive the best quality but also the most choices of products and services.

Photobooks are evergreen – I wish I could write this whole paragraph in bold . No amount of technological advancement can take away the feel of a printed photograph . A HUMBLE REQUEST , PLEASE DON’T LET THE DIGITAL FILES ROT ON YOUR COMPUTER HARD DRIVE . As a wedding photographer, I can’t even begin to describe my disappointment when prospective clients tell me that they are very sure they don’t want the photobook . It makes me sad when I think of all the photos that I worked upon for hours would never get printed. Display your wedding pictures proudly because on a crappy day in married life , pictures in print do make things better . Holding an album in hand would take you back in time and going through good memories will definitely relieve some stress .

What does a Camera Operator do?

Camera operators are the ones behind the scenes operating film or video cameras to capture footage for televisions shows, commercials, documentaries, events, and film. Many camera operators specialize in shooting footage for a specific industry, such as those working in the film industry or those working for an advertising firm shooting commercials.

How to Become a Camera Operator

There is no minimum requirement to become a camera operator, though a bachelor’s degree may be necessary to gain an entry level position. If you do not have experience, employers will look for applicants with a formal education in a related field such as broadcasting or film. If a camera operator is already in the field and has experience, they may not need to show a formal education as they may have built a reputation. According to O*NET OnLine, over 60% of camera operators surveyed reported having at least an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree.

Job Description of a Camera Operator

Camera operators shoot footage with television or motion picture cameras to capture scenes for a director. They would need to be knowledgable in composition and lighting techniques to ensure the angle, lighting, and story of the scene is conveyed as intended. They would also use various lenses and filters when necessary to accurately capture the moment.

Camera Operators Career Video Transcript

Whether it’s the silver screen of 1950s Hollywood or the computer screen and YouTube of today, Americans have long carried a torch for moving pictures. When the director yells “Action” the camera operator’s eyes are glued to the camera’s lens, making sure to catch everything. There are three main types of camera operators

Studio camera operators work in broadcasting and follow directions as part of an ensemble production. They film their subjects from a fixed position. Cinematographers film motion pictures. They determine the angles, lighting, and types of equipment that will best capture a shot

Camera Operator

A camera operator records the visual images that make up movies, television shows, news broadcasts, music videos and televised news and sporting events. If you were to visit the set of a movie or television show, you would see the “cameraman” filming the action. He or she may also film live events like concerts and sports. When a news reporter broadcasts from a remote location or from a television studio, the camera operator records it for the audience at home to watch either live or at some later time

Employment Facts

There were about 21,400 camera operators employed in 2012. Most camera operators work full-time, but those who film motion pictures may have periods of unemployment between projects. There may also be times when overtime work is required to meet deadlines. Some camera operators work on a freelance basis. Jobs of this nature may require that one has his or her own equipment.

Educational Requirements

Many employers prefer to hire job candidates who have a bachelor’s degree in film or broadcasting, or in a related discipline. This formal training, however, is not enough. One needs to learn what actually goes on during film production. In order to do that, an aspiring camera operator begins his or her career as a production assistant in the camera department. After time spent doing simple tasks, which often includes running errands, he or she may become a camera assistant, before eventually becoming a camera operator.

Other Requirements

Will you make a good camera operator? The answer to this question relies on your soft skills or personal qualities. If you are creative, have good visual skills, eye-hand coordination and can pay attention to detail, you have a better chance of succeeding in this occupation than someone who does not have these qualities. You must also have good communication skills, including the ability to understand what others are telling you and the ability to convey instructions. You will have to receive and understand instructions from directors and producers as well as give instructions to your assistants.

Advancement Opportunities

Some camera operators make a career shift within the entertainment industry, eventually becoming directors or producers.

How to Become a Camera Operator

What is a Camera Operator?

While the Director and the Director of Photography set up the mood and the style for each shot, the ones who are hands-on behind each shot are Camera Operators, who combine their technical knowledge with creative input to make sure each clip is a perfect fit for the final product

Camera Operators work under the Director and Director of Photography and often work closely with technical departments to include sound and lighting. Camera Operators work across a variety of mediums recording moving images. They create the film for music videos, corporate productions, films, TV programmes, and commercials. In this article, we will be discussing what responsibilities you can expect from this role, and the key skills you will need to become a Camera Operator.

What does a Camera Operator do?

Camera Operators usually start working in early pre-productions, attending technical recces with other Heads of Department. They execute the instructions of the DoP and the Director while being responsible for their Assistants and Trainees. If and when technical issues arise, the Camera Operator is responsible for resolving these problems.

After shots have been rehearsed and the camera has been positioned by the DoP, it’s the Camera Operator’s responsibility to take care of all aspects of the operation of the equipment. Importantly, they will follow a camera script adhering to the directions of the Director. To stay ahead in this role it is important to study scripts before filming to ensure the smooth running of the production

Camera Operators have the responsibility of setting up the equipment before any shot and of keeping everything ready for any last-minute changes. They also oversee the work of their Assistants and Trainees in maintaining and preparing the equipment.

WORKING AS A CAMERA OPERATOR

What Does A Camera Operator Do

Film and video editors and camera operators manipulate images that entertain or inform an audience. Camera operators capture a wide range of material for TV shows, motion pictures, music videos, documentaries, or news and sporting events. Editors take footage shot by camera operators and organize it into a final product. They collaborate with producers and directors to create the final production

How To Become A Camera Operator

Film and video editors and camera operators typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field related to film or broadcasting

Education

Most editor and camera operator positions require a bachelor’s degree in a field related to film or broadcasting, such as communications. Many colleges offer courses in cinematography or video-editing software. Coursework involves a mix of film theory with practical training

Training

Editors may complete a brief period of on-the-job training. Some employers may offer new employees training in the type of specialized editing software they use. Most editors eventually specialize in one type of software, but beginners should be familiar with as many types as possible.

Licenses, Certifications, and Registrations

Certification is a way for editors to demonstrate competence in various types of editing software. To earn certification, video editors must pass a comprehensive exam. Candidates can prepare for the exam on their own, through online tutorials, or through classroom instruction

WHERE’S THE BEST PLACE FOR CAMERA OPERATORS TO MAKE MONEY AND FIND JOBS?

Two of the hardest things to get a handle on in the film industry is how much you can expect to make and where the jobs are. Well, thanks to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, we can remove some of that guess work and find out about the average wage of a camera operator, where the most jobs are, and how much the industry is projected to grow.

On average, camera operators make about $49k annually

The mean annual wage for camera operators in 2012, according to the BLS, was $49,260. But let’s take that with a grain of salt. Why? Because that number gets inflated by the people at the high end of the spectrum; meaning if Roger Deakins gets included in the pool, he single-handedly inflates the mean annual wage which is calculated by averaging all wages together.

Which is lower than other film occupations, but higher than still photographers

Of course none of these wage numbers mean much if we don’t have context to put them within. In this case, it’s helpful to compare what camera operators make against others in the film, television, and media industries as well as against the average wages for all occupations in the US economy

When you do that, as we have in the chart above, there’s good and bad news. The good news is that camera operators make more money than the national average and, when you isolate camera operators within the “Motion Picture and Video Industries,” the annual mean wage jumps to $57,100. The bad news is that, compared to some other common production jobs, we’re lower on the scale.

The conventional wisdom is true; the most work is in California and New York

According to the BLS, California and New York are the states with the most employment of camera operators with both states besting the third state on the list, Florida, by almost double the number of camera operators employed

Best tips from party planning pros: how to make your event unforgettable

Rachel Senner, Senner of Attention

My best tip for creating an unforgettable event is to tie in touches that will bring everyone together. Sometimes people meet, grow closer, or bond stronger because of a fun game, touching photo slide, or song choice. These small things here and there can create a special experience no one will forget.

Megan & Cedar Watson, Paper Goat Post

Our best tip for creating an unforgettable event is to PLAN! If you think through all the details and set a solid plan, you will be able to execute the event based around the goals set during your planning. If you run into any bumps during the execution, you’ll be able to “WORK YOUR PLAN” and respond in a calm and appropriate manner.

Elle Anderson & Sydney Thompson, Elle A Events

I would say the best tip for an unforgettable event is to be ‘open minded’. Every client is different and their happiness comes first … always.

Ashley McAllister, The Party Girl

Make a killer backdrop. I have a super simple PVC pipe frame I use for pretty much everything, and you can get very creative. Use it as a showstopper behind your food table, and later on, let it steal the show on Instagram since it does double duty as a photo booth backdrop once everybody is warmed up!

Andressa Hara, Twinkle Twinkle Little Party

The best tip for an unforgettable event is choosing a unique and relevant theme that carries through the party decor and food/sweets. Creating an eye-catching set up/presentation with a story behind it will definitely give the guests something to talk about.

Tips for a Stress-Free Party

Simple Planning

Planning a party or event shouldn’t be stressful or intimidating. By staying organized and starting early, you can plan, create and host a memorable affair with ease. Download and print our detailed party planning checklist to make the process even easier, from one month before the party to an hour before your guests arrive. Photography by Michael Bullock

Get Organized

I always keep several lists that I continually update through the planning process: a master to-do list where I highlight every task that must be accomplished, a shopping list that ensures I won’t forget any supplies, and an all-important guest list where I track contact information, dietary restrictions and RSVPs

Create a Theme

Milestones like birthdays and holidays can be even more festive when a creative theme is chosen to set the tone. Transform your space into a south-of-the-border fiesta by serving margaritas and hiring a mariachi band, or throw a Great Gatsby-inspired brunch with croquet on the lawn. The possibilities are endless

Send Out Invites

Although online invitations are perfectly acceptable for last-minute get-togethers, there’s nothing quite like a mailed invitation to set the tone for a party and build anticipation for the fun in store. There are plenty of online stationery companies offering chic well-designed invitation designs, or you can get creative and make your own. A brightly colored square of card stock embellished with finds from local craft stores is every bit as special as custom invitations (and for a fraction of the cost, too)

Offer a Self-Serve Bar

The key to a simple drink service? Set up a self-serve bar so guests can be their own mixologists. Set up a pretty tray with a decanter, two or three kinds of liquor and a few festive mixers. Let everyone have fun creating their own concoctions. Welcome guests with a drink upon arrival by placing a tray of champagne and sparkling water near the door so they can grab some bubbly and start mingling as soon as they arrive.

Your Quick Guide to Becoming a Kickass Party Planner

You have a knack for throwing parties. From ingenious themes right down to the amuse bouche, ideas come to you and things just naturally flow from there. Time and again, a gathering you’ve organized has turned out to be the party of the year.

To launch a full-fledged party planning business, you’ll need to get strategic. Being a professional party planner is about a lot more than good taste and impeccable conversational skills. You also have to be a gifted multitasker, financially astute, and perhaps most importantly, ultra-calm under pressure. When the shi…ndig hits the fan, can you keep calm and party-plan on?

Upgrade your event experience

It’s the chicken/egg thing: you need experience to get jobs, but it takes jobs to get experience. Here’s how to get around this paradox.

Consider industry training

In the party planning business, official training is a nice to have, not a have to have. Experience and talent are definitely more important than training.

Put your skills into perspective

Flair for a good time aside, there are some practical traits that will make you a better party planner. A lot of these traits could work in almost any job posting. But they’re particularly true for party planning.

Ways to Simplify Party Planning

Plan Slowly

Don’t stuff a week’s worth of party planning into one stressful Saturday. “Separate the planning of each party component over a couple of days,” says Jessica McTaggart of Pink Champagne Events. Spend one evening focusing on the menu and another on your DIY centerpieces—and allow for plenty of relaxing downtime in between, if possible.

Perfect Your Guest List

It doesn’t matter if it’s an intimate dinner party or a big holiday; maintain a careful eye on your guest list—and not just to keep the headcount in check. “Make sure you have the right mix of visitors,” says Meg Stepanak of Gemini Event Planning. For an intimate gathering, she recommends inviting at least a few extroverts to “engage even the shyest guest, find common interests, and relax the crowd.”

Send Invites Early

Unless you’re secretly hoping some of your guests won’t show up, make sure to send out invitations at least six weeks early—six months if they’ll be attending from out of town, says Heidi Hiller of Innovative Party Planning. Emailed invitations, like Paperless Post, are acceptable for most events, but “the level of respect you give your guest when inviting is the level of respect you get in your attendance. Casually done, it can be ignored,” she says. Need a firm headcount? Hiller recommends formal invitations.

Stick With the Tried and Tested

“We all flock to Pinterest for the latest trends, but I don’t recommend trying something for the first time when preparing to host,” says McTaggart. When planning your menu or decorations, make sure to pick recipes and DIY projects you’ve successfully completed before—otherwise you might find yourself up to your elbows in glitter and stress three hours before your party.

Consider a Buffet

Even for professionals, menu planning can be a struggle—so why not consider a buffet? “A buffet menu allows guests to build their own plate,” says Stepanak, meaning they can pick their favorite mains and skip their least-favorite greens. And don’t force yourself to work in the kitchen all day before the party: prepare appetizers and salads ahead of time.

Here’s What Makes a Great Party Planner

They love people

While every party planner should have a good amount of event experience, no amount of mastery can compensate if the person isn’t pleasant to work with. Eventbrite’s Ronnie Higgins reminds event planners in a recent blog post that their people skills should be number one. He explains that to successfully work with a wide range of people, a planner needs to be able to quickly resolve conflicts, be a confident but pleasant negotiator, and have a sense of humor.

They’re organized

Let’s face it: Party planners are often so crucial because there’s just so much planning to do! Even if you’re naturally organized and a master of systems and checklists, a great planner should have processes in place that top even your best DIY ideas.

They track stats and data

Did you know that event planning software and analytics tools are a big market for event planning professionals? Many of today’s top planners use some form of data products to keep them on budget and on time.

They take their work seriously

Even if you find out about a party planner from a referral or mutual friend, it’s wise to take the time to research their business and ensure they do things like a professional. Start with their website or social media platforms to see how they communicate. Look to see that they have more than one way to reach them. Can you call? What about text or email?

They can provide references

More than just online reviews, a seasoned event planner will likely have references who can speak to their work. To take things a step further, it might also be helpful to ask if they have references that aren’t just former clients.

What Should You Look for in a Wedding Videographer?

You may have already decided you’d like to hire a wedding videographer, but there’s still a lot to think about. First, do you want to have your entire day captured on video, or just the ceremony? Are you hoping for a chronological look at your nuptials, or do you prefer a more cinematic film with different parts of the day all mixed together? With varying video styles, personality types, and working styles, you’ll want to be sure you’ve found a videographer who checks all of your boxes. But what exactly should you look for in the pro you choose?

Hire friendly photographers and videographers. 

There is a lot to capture on your wedding day in a short amount of time. Both your photographer and videographer will film the same key scenes: getting ready, first look, ceremony, speeches, reception, etc. Coordination is important, so try to hire a photographer and videographer who have worked together before. This way, they will likely have systems in place to make sure each captures those special moments. Ask your wedding planner for recommendations or have your photographer to suggest a videographer (or the other way around) for a seamless day-of experience.

Find a filmmaker who is comfortable with your venue type.  

Found a filmmaker you love but notice that all of their films take place outdoors and you’re getting married in a ballroom? Raise the question to the filmmaker before you hire them and make sure they’re comfortable shooting in your wedding setting. Request sample films to watch and show them an example of a film you like from your venue (or a similar) and confirm they’re comfortable shooting in similar circumstances.

Understand what’s included in your package.  

As wedding films have increased in popularity, so have the package options and the terminology. Understanding everything that comes in your package will help ensure you aren’t disappointed later. When your filmmaker sends you examples of what comes in your package (Instagram teaser, trailer, full edit, etc.) make sure to really watch each example and be sure it’s the type and amount of coverage you want!

Raw Footage: What is it?

Generally Raw Footage means “unedited footage”.  This can be quite useless to a couple because it will include all the camera movements and sounds that are native to making a film.  When a documentary videographer edits the full ceremony, for example, he takes all these unwanted aspects out and “edits” it in a more appealing way.

For example, the videographer will probably have at least two cameras. One may be “locked off” on a tripod facing the crowd or the altar etc and it will not move for the entire ceremony which could be an hour long. However, this camera may not have any sound because the videographer is using separate sound recorders which have to be synced in editing.  The second camera, the one in the videographers hands will have lots of undesirable footage as he moves from one shot to another whether by re-framing (zooming) or by physically moving.

What Is Their Final Product?

And the last but perhaps most important thing to know is what you should expect for a final product. Of course, you should always make sure to read every contract from your vendors extremely carefully, but that is especially true for something as important as wedding documentation. You need to know what type of video your videographer specializes in. Are they creating more of a feature film of your day with full edits, background music, voice overs, etc.? Are they doing a less-edited, more natural view of your event? Are they only providing you with one full-length film or are they also including a highlight reel for social media sharing? Most of these questions will be apparent in a sampling of their work that you should take time to watch before making your decision, but you can also ask them to describe their work themselves during a consultation.

PACKAGES

From Teasers to Full-Length Documentaries

Here are some of the most popular package options you’re likely to see when hiring a videographer

• Highlight Film (3-10 min) – With many videographers, the highlight film is the final product you will receive. More commonly, this film is non-linear and takes a more modern approach, where the videographer has truly created a piece of cinematic art out of the events and moments throughout your day.
• Short Film (10-20 min) – If you decide on a package with a short film, you will receive an edited version of your wedding footage that takes a more linear form, often including a portion of your vows, reception toasts, etc. Depending on how long you book your videographer, the film may also include getting ready footage, first look footage, and grand exit.
• Same day edit (4-10 min) – Some videographers offer an option to have footage from your wedding edited on the spot and shown during your reception. This can be a fun surprise for guests on the day-of!
• Full-length documentary (30-90 min) – If you are interested in reliving the majority of your day, this option is for you! Your videographer can create a longer film that includes entire sections of your wedding, like your ceremony. Due to the length, this option is the most like a true movie of your wedding.

Most videographers offer additional options to receive additional footage from your day. A few popular add-ons include: dancing, full edit of ceremony/reception, father/daughter dance etc.