Many couples looking for a wedding video end up very confused; dozens of videographers, agencies, extras, price ranges & the question of "why do we even need a video?"
We wrote this guide to help you get some answers, perspective and avoid disappointment.

Photos are easy to view and they represent a perfect moment - and here lies the difference - a video allows you to see and hear everything that happens, rather than just snapshots (that are often posed).
Don't get me wrong, I don't think anybody should trade their photos for a video, but given the choice - get both. Even if it means spending less on your photos and getting a basic video. You can see a photo of your great grandfather, but you won't know what they sounded like, what they acted like, the way they interacted with others or the emotion & exitement of the day.

A one camera shoot is more static. The main problem - one camera can only be in one place at once.
With 2 or 3 cameras you can get different shots at the same time, you can cut between them and create a much more interesting result. You can see your mum crying during the service, and the guests cracking up with laughter during the speeches. Mainly - there's no chance of missing that crucial moment.
The best explanation is to see 2 videos side by side - if you haven't decided which package you want ask for both samples. Always make sure you get a sample of the package you're interested in.
Some companies offer the "2 cameras 1 operator" package - this sounds good but isn't half as good as
2 professional operators. Make sure all of the operators are qualified & experienced in wedding filming.

When browsing for a wedding video try and keep your options open. It's obviously better to go for a whole day, 3 camera professional crew - but it's not within everybody's budget. If your budget is limited consider this - it's better to get unedited professional filming, rather than a low quality filmed and edited version for the same price - you can always get it edited later, but you can't change your mind after the video is finished & the day is gone.
Ask any couple about their big day and they're likely to tell you it's all a big blur, happening too fast for them to keep up with. A video not only keeps your memories alive, it shows all aspects of your wedding.

When you look at a sample, try to noticing things like quality, colour balance & detail.
Is the picture clear or blurry & pixellated? Does the white dress look white, or does it look yellow or blue? Can you see the expression on your parents' faces, or only the happy couple?

Sound is important - more than most people would have you believe. Imagine a 1 camera shoot with the camera at the back of the church, you're about to say "I Do" and all you can hear is the baby sitting 2 feet from the camera.
Or maybe a reception where your father is giving a moving speech that is overshadowed by your second cousin chatting up one of the bridemaids. As I said, sound is important. Make sure you choose a service that offers a separate microphone (tie-clip or hidden), and if it's offered to you - use it!

A good videographer will have good cameras, tripods, experience with filming weddings, which shots he/she needs to get, and how the footage will be edited - to achieve the best final result. What technical training and qualifications do they have? If you're considering a one camera shoot make sure there will be a backup camera/sound - if the camera fails there's no 2nd take. They should be unobtrusive and respectful to your guests. A good videographer is one that blends in and is rarely noticed at a wedding. When you're trying to decide which provider to go with
pay attention to the filming style - Is the camera steady or shaky?

When watching a whole sample video - is it interesting, or are you bored? (Bear in mind watching someone else's video is never the same as watching your own!). Is it pleasant to watch or does it cut away at the wrong moment? Do you feel that "that's exactly what I'm looking for!" or "it's nice but it's not me"? A good provider will show you more than one sample so you can see the difference in people's personalities & their videos.

Unless your uncle Bob is a professional wedding videographer with years of experience - I wouldn't recommend it.
You wouldn't hire a relative or a friend to take the pictures or cook the food would you? Videography is a skilled profession that demands training, & experience. Each wedding is different and there's no room for error, so make sure you hire a person who can handle a range of situations.

When choosing a video provider you need to ask yourself - do I want floating hearts over my head? Would I like seeing myself in slow motion or in a heart shaped frame? Choose your videographer according to the answers to these questions. Is the video full of cheesy special effects, or are effects used in moderation to add a touch of elegance to the video?

Don't decide just by watching a 2 minute clip on a website. It's short, it usually dosen't have any of the original sound and any professional editor will tell you it's much easier to make an interesting 2 minute sample out of a whole day, than showing the whole thing and keep it interesting.