Why are some wedding videos so expensive? 

been changing very rapidly, not only in cameras but in editing systems as well. Keeping up with the technology is expensive.  Professional videographers have to invest in audio equipment (microphones, mixers, etc.) in addition to the camera and editing equipment. Many videographers spend more money on equipment than the average photographer. 

Secondly, editing video is a time consuming process.  When the wedding day is over, a typical professional videographer will spend another 20-30 hours editing the video to make it look nice and more enjoyable to watch.  At Halaja Productions, advanced editing, including menus, chapters, titles, credits, transitional effects, and other creative editing techniques are a standard part of our services. When you consider everything involved in producing a wedding video (equipment and editing time), it's not surprising to see why it might cost more than photography.

Additionally, we always film using two videographers to ensure the highest quality video.  Having two manned cameras ensures that every second of your day is captured with high quality video.  For instance, during vows, we ensure that one camera is focused on the bride, while the other camera is focused on the groom.  Having two videographers allows for camera movement, as we coordinate with each other to ensure that one camera is always stationary, allowing for the best video, while the second camera moves.  It allows us to video activities that are happening at the same time in different locations.  Having two manned cameras also allows for more creative flexibility during the shoot.  We strive to remain unobtrusive, but we will get the shots that you want to see, without disturbing you or your guests.  However, having two cameras takes additional editing time, adding to the overall expense of your video.  We believe that this expense is well worth the investment in your video. 

If I've hired a good photographer, why do I need a videographer?

Photographs are an important part of your wedding day.  As beautiful as photographs can be, they can only catch glimpses of the subject.  Video, with its combination of motion picture and sound, can preserve your wedding memories as no other medium can. Think about your favorite television show. Would you rather see a few photos from an episode or watch the actual show? Wouldn't the same be true for your wedding? Surveys show that most couples agree that video was the most important investment for preserving their memories.

Did you know that any video scene can be converted into black & white, sepia tone, and even "letter-boxed" (wide-screen) format like many motion pictures?

Why should I have my wedding day professionally videotaped?

Your wedding day is a once in a lifetime experience. After months of careful planning to make your celebration perfect, your special day will fly by in a heartbeat.  Your day is filled with emotion:  laughter shared with friends and family as you prepare for your ceremony, eager anticipation as you walk down the aisle, tears of joy as you say your vows, a loving caress in your first dance, the fun and excitement of your reception. These moments are full of sights, sounds, and motion!  And these memories are what are left after your wedding day is over. A professional wedding videographer will capture emotions as only a moving picture can and preserve them for you to enjoy over and over again and to pass down to future generations. 

How should I choose a professional wedding videographer?

Hiring professional vendors for all your wedding needs is a good idea.  Professionals will ensure that your day goes smoothly for you and your guests. This also leaves you free to invite your friends and family to attend the wedding, not to work at your wedding.  Besides, if you ask friends and family to help and something goes wrong, it can lead to hurt feelings, something no one wants!  

Hiring the right videographer does make a difference. There are no retakes in a live event. It must be done right the first time. Choose a wedding videographer who is accomplished and dedicated to outstanding service because it takes more than good equipment to make a great video. It takes talent, vision, and accomplished camera skills. Also keep in mind that your videographer will be with you throughout your wedding day. Choose someone with whom you feel at ease so that you can feel confident that he or she will interact well with both you and your guests. The most important element to shop for is the actual videographer, whose style, creative experience, professionalism and talents are what you really want. 

Will I watch my video more than once? 

Our clients tell us that they watch their videos over and over again.  We are creating a movie of your wedding day that is fun and exciting to relive.  You'll love sharing your video with family and friends.  And most importantly, you'll have a permanent record of an amazing moment in time that will be passed down for generations to come.
 

Why should I choose your company to videotape my wedding? 

Halaja Productions is owned and operated by Paul Halaja.  By having Halaja Productions videotape your wedding, you get the exceptional benefits of TWO experienced professional wedding videographers who are geared to customer service.  You get a creative eye with the ability to capture flattering angles and compose terrific shots, the skill to anticipate important moments and ensure that emotional moments are captured forever, all the while remaining unobtrusive to you and your guests.  You get a videographer who will listen to your preferences and who will work closely with you, your photographer and your music provider to ensure that your wedding day goes smoothly.  You get a videographer who is sensitive to the sanctity of the ceremony and the fun of the festivities and who isn't obtrusive.  Plus, you get professional cameras, professional microphones and professional editing equipment designed to give you the outstanding picture quality and great sound that your wedding day deserves.  Add to that the capability to put your video on DVD and on your private internet video gallery and you get a complete production that beautifully captures your memories in a video that you will cherish for years to come.

FAQ facts courtesy Fortress Studio

Photos taken at actual weddings produced by Halaja Productions