Why should I hire Shields Films?

Most couples say their wedding day went by so fast that they could hardly remember everything that happened. Not surprisingly, one of the biggest regrets couples experience after their wedding is their decision not to have professional video. A wedding is full of once-in-a-lifetime moments that should be documented and relived with future generations. Imagine what it would be like to watch the story of your parents’, or even your grandparents’ wedding. Although good photographs capture singular moments, there is simply no substitute for a living, breathing account of one of the most defining events of your life.

Why not have my friends shoot it for free?

There is a huge difference between home video and a professionally-produced video. Your friend or relative may have great intentions, but it’s very unlikely they have the equipment (professional cameras, wireless microphones, editing gear…) that a professional has. It’s also very unlikely they have the know-how or experience to produce a great video. Do they have the stamina or readiness to be on top of all the especially important moments? In creating a great video, you must be meticulous in searching out the best angles and experienced enough to anticipate the best moments. Your wedding story is simply too important to leave to chance.

What makes Shields Films different?

If you are solely basing your videographer choice on price, then you may be in for a huge disappointment when your DVD arrives. Most people are unaware of the time and effort that good videographers spend on filming and editing a video. In most cases, prices will reflect their achievements.

It is important that your videographer be detail-oriented, communicates well, and is committed to finding creative ways to tell a story that represents your day. We want our clients to feel certain that were right for the job. We listen to YOUR ideas, we address YOUR concerns, and use our expertise to design a wedding video that’s UNIQUELY YOURS.

We understand that shooting wedding video requires great sensitivity, a keen instinct for knowing when to act, when to react, and when to simply stay put.

What distinguishes a “high end” video from a “low end” video?

We shoot “high end” videos that require no excuses in capturing the day’s essential moments. The sound is clear and crisp, the images have accurate color and the camerawork is smooth. The pace is quick and captivating, never dragging on longer than necessary.

What is the format and style of your videos?

Our videos are a personal re-telling of your wedding day, tightly edited and fun to watch. We create a video customized to the events and personality of your wedding day. One thing we promise — absolutely no cheesy graphics!

What will your presence be like at our wedding?

Much of this is up to you. Whether you want us on the altar with you or hidden in the balcony, it’s your call. We will work with you to figure out the approach that best suits your style. Always, our primary concern is making you and your guests feel comfortable.

Will bright lights and long cables overpower our wedding?

The last thing we want to do is turn your wedding into a Hollywood production.We use a very discrete setup, involving no cables or overpowering lights. Our cameras do an excellent job of picking up quality images in low-light situations and we use a small light only when absolutely necessary. The exception being 8mm Film shot indoors. Film needs more light than video and won’t turn out in most low-light situations.

Do you interview guests?

Interviews with family and friends are great for adding emotion and laughter to your video. If you decide to feature interviews, you can count on us to conduct them skillfully and bring out that “special something” in the people you love.

How do you work with photographers?

Our goal in working with any photographer is to negotiate where each of us will be working and what to expect from one another. Largely, we base our approach on your preferences.

How long will the finished video be?

Typically, finished videos will be around 60-90 minutes in length. Don’t be fooled into thinking that a longer video means a better video. Rather, a longer video generally means a lot more fast-forwarding through the boring parts. We believe the length of a video should be determined by the value of its content and not by an unwritten rule that says a video should be at least 2 hours long.

How long will it take to finish the video?

Typically, videos will take 2-3 months to complete, depending on the season. It is not uncommon that we spend upwards of 20 hours editing a video. The only thing we guarantee is that it will be worth your wait.

Can I review my video before it is finalized?

You will be sent a copy of the final DVD in the mail. Review it. Note any changes that you would like to have made and let us know. We will make the final edits and send your completed DVD’s out to you.

How soon before our wedding should we book?

Popular summer dates fill up quickly. It is not uncommon to book 6 months to 1 year in advance. But last minute bookings happen just as frequently. We encourage you to contact us for an appointment; we’d love to show you what we can do for you.

What do we need to do before the wedding?

After an initial telephone or email discussion, we can set up a time to meet at your convenience where we can go over the details of your day. We can see what style of video you would like, help you choose a package, and to begin to get to know you. Closer to your wedding date, we will talk again to go over any new details that will help us as we capture your day. It is a good opportunity for you to provide us with music that will be included in your final video. Our goal is to have a thorough understanding of what to expect on your wedding day from beginning to end.