I received the following questions via my Instagram direct message from a very dear-follower & photographer-friend of mine. I thought to myself, this questions needs to be addressed on the blog so those who have been searching and/or may search for it later in future can find the answers.
She asked: “How do you deal with videography part of the business?
1. Should the video footage be given for selection? (sometimes clients need changes in the final video).
2. How the final edited video should be given to the clients (on a DVD,USB)? Because mostly they end up coming after a year or so that the dvd got broken or it isn’t working due to this-&-that reason.”
Here is my answer:
Firstly, I very strongly believe in putting the best foot forward first!
I show the perfectly curated and edited version of the video to the client for mainly 2 reasons: (a) to avoid confusion with so much raw footage and save time – both mine & client’s and (b) they see the best clips along with transitions & music overlay directly.
During the past 6 years of my business, may be only 3 clients have requested for a specific clip/person to be removed. If a request like that comes across, I make sure the changes are done as per the client’s demand as she’s the one who has to watch-&-live with the video, not me. So I make sure its how she wants her memories to be.
Secondly, in order to grow your business, keep up (if not ahead) with the ever-so-evolving technology. I used to give DVDs to clients. When several of them told me that their new laptops don’t have DVD players, I invested in custom made USBs with my logo printed and started delivering those. So far, 16GB USBs have been working fine for me. When a client has video+crane package, I provide them 2+ USBs so it holds up all the data.
Now, last but certainly not the least, before you deliver the USB or even show the client the edited version of the video, make sure you communicate (yes, bold-ly) with the client during the wedding timeline consultation. Ask questions & listen carefully to the bride. Also set her expectations so she knows that she’ll be (a) receiving the edited video directly (b) on a USB (c) and is responsible for backups. If she wants things/process otherwise, she’ll tell you so in advance!
I hope you gratify your clients with your exceptional communication, work, delivery process, & customer service ♥️
Stay Fabulous,
~ Rima
P.S. Thank you for reading until the end. Here is my ((( virtual hug 🤗 ))) for you. If this post sparked new ideas or helped you think differently in any way, do share your thoughts in the comments below.
Albums, on the other hand, are timeless. Pricey? May be, but they are absolutely priceless. Regardless of the size of the album, a printed book will never go out of style. No batteries/recharging required, and doesn’t need to keep up with the fast-changing-technology. Trust me! You’ll thank me later…
Another good reason to consider is how much you are spending overall on your wedding? The venue – one night rental. The stage – one night rental. The makeup – you will wash it the same night. The dress/bouquet – you won’t use again. Jewelry & shoes – yes, they are reusable but how much can you use them? Photography + video – the only things you get to keep. Forever. Am I saying the other things are not important, not at alllll!!! You can’t expect great photos if the makeup/venue is not good or your dress/shoes are not the right fit. But again, spend the money wisely.
