How can wedding photographers and videographers work well together at the same event?
Asked 3/21/2011
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At weddings, photographers and videographers often need the same moments and angles at the same time. What are the best ways to share space, avoid getting in each other’s shots, and still deliver strong results for the couple? I’m especially interested in practical advice from wedding photographers and videographers on planning positions, setting expectations, and cooperating during key moments like the ceremony and portraits.
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
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I work as a professional photographer AND as a professional videographer. I have worked with other photographers and other videographers on a shoot. There is more than enough space at a wedding for everyone to get the good angles if you have a shooting plan and discuss it before the event. Decide who will be where at which moment and stick to the plan.
What photographers don't get is that for video you need to maintain good framing and smooth movements the whole time you are recording. It is therefore much more difficult to move around. When I shoot photography it is the simplest thing in the world to move and shoot. I can crouch under the video camera or shoot around it without having to worry about my movement affecting the shot. We can EASILY stand next to each other in the aisle to get the ring shots etc.
ultimately, the client doesn't care about the technical difficulties. She has hired 2 people to do a job for her. No vendor is more important than another. We are all equally responsible for providing the best possible product to the person that hired us. This means you need to have the inter-personal skills to negotiate the shooting plan so EVERYBODY wins and the client gets what they paid for. You catch more flies with honey than you do with vinegar... and do you really think a bride is going to enjoy working with a pompous ass who thinks he is running the show? Do you think the bridesmaids will hire that guy for their wedding? Do you think the other vendors will recommend them to future clients?
Originally by user4409. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user4409
15y ago
0
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The main takeaway is: communicate early and have a plan. The photographer and videographer should discuss key moments before the event, decide who will stand where, and stick to that plan as much as possible.
A useful point from videographers is that video often needs continuous framing and smooth movement, so they may be less able to quickly reposition than a photographer. Knowing that can help both sides avoid conflict.
During the wedding, stay aware of each other’s sight lines, avoid stepping into active shots, and be as unobtrusive as possible. For portraits and staged moments, cooperation helps—if one person is directing, the other can work around that setup.
Several answers also stress setting expectations in advance with the couple and, if relevant, in the contract. That can clarify priorities and reduce misunderstandings on the day.
In short: pre-event coordination, clear roles, mutual respect, and understanding the different needs of stills versus video are the best ways to work together successfully.
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