In our 2008 post, The 10 REAL questions you should ask your videographer, I not only offered advice to clients looking for a videographer, but I also offered the list up for any wedding and event filmmaker to repost the list to help educate their clients. Looking back, we realize how important this list is. I think it’s important enough to dissect and really delve into each question. This week, I’ll discuss #7, “May I see other clients’ movies and read what they had to say about you?”.
One of the best parts of wedding and event filmmaking is the ability to show prospective clients what they will be getting. Almost everyone has access to a high speed internet connection and a myriad of handheld devices. However, you must be careful to look at the final deliverable production, not just samples, recaps, and short “coming soon” movie trailers. If the company you are considering cannot or will not show you full productions, move on. It’s pretty simple for anyone to put together a bunch of eye-candy shots, but without looking at several full films, how can you make a wise decision? So don’t be afraid to ask for a full production as it was delivered to the client.
Of course, it would be great to know what clients thought of their productions, too. If a company makes clients happy consistently, they should be receiving calls, notes, emails, or even video messages from their clients from time to time. Ask to read these letters or ask for references you can call. In the end, a film should make clients happy about their decision to have their events documented and their stories told in a fun, creative way.
