A Conversation With Tete-a-Tete Films
I have had to pleasure to speak with Stephen Hill of Tete-a-Tete Films about Wedding Videography.
Steve has over 15 years experience in the world of film and his key words of wisdom was that: “Be in the moment. The cliche is it’s all over in the blink of an eye but it is reality. Be in the moment, don’t sweat the details.”
Below Steve answers our questions about wedding Videography to help you find the best one for you to capture your special day.
What should couples look for beyond price and Instagram highlights?
I’d say connection with the videographer is vital. They will have a front row seat to what will be the most spiritual day of your life thus far. You’ll appreciate a cool & calm head under pressure. Avoid someone who may be overly demanding of your time and attention.
What do couples often not realise until it’s too late?
Be in the moment. The cliche is it’s all over in the blink of an eye but it is reality. Be in the moment, don’t sweat the details. You have assembled a team of great suppliers so let them do their job and focus on making memories.
From your point of view what’s the biggest difference between a ‘nice video’ and a film that makes you cry every time?
A great videographer will be making constant mental notes throughout the day. From the music you listened to during bride prep to the big key moments you lived and maybe weren’t party to. Capturing a grandparent overcome by emotion during your vows may not be something you witness in the moment. A good videographer will spot those moments and ensure that are captured.
If a couple can only stretch their budget in one area, what’s most worth it?
Get a highlight of the whole day. Even if it’s from a content creator over a videographer I just think having the whole day packed into 1 min or 90 secs is something you’ll love reliving.
What do you think couples most often regret not including?
Photo & Video will last forever. Imagine someone sitting you down and showing you your grandparents wedding day! Your grandchildren will have that privilege.
What do you say to couples who feel awkward in front of the camera?
For me it’s just about getting on with what I need to do. Allow everyone to be in the moment and anticipate the action to capture it. Making people perform or play up on their wedding day is lazy. Direction can be crucial but pick the moment.
What should a couple do so you can do your best work?
Be in the moment. Completely live it.
What helps you capture the story properly - especially the emotional parts?
It’s a boring answer but complete technical proficiency. Good audio, great angles and great decision making when someone or something inevitably scuppers your plan.
What do you wish couples understood about the editing process?
It’s time consuming. A day to shoot and often 7 days to edit. In June I have 8 weddings. Backlogs are an inevitable part of dealing with a talented, busy and in demand video team. I edit all my films personally which can create a bottleneck but I think it’s a big part of the client experience rather than outsource it.
A Bonus: Here are “Key Questions” couples should ask potential Videographers (the ones that actually reveal the truth) plus Steve’s thoughts.
How would you describe your style — and how do you make it feel personal to each couple?
You want a videographer that has a style but is open to taking ideas from their couples. I always say “it’s not my film, it’s our film”. Collaboration is the right mindset.
How do you record audio for vows and speeches (and what’s your backup plan)?
It’s such an important facet of film making. The right answer is to have more than one recording source.
How do you work alongside photographers (especially during couple portraits)?
It’s important. Photographers can be just as nervous about getting what they need and if that needs to be at the expense of the videographers, many will. We all can get what we need by working together and being mindful.
How do you handle low light, rain, or a tight timeline?
Again a great question to ask because there obvious reasons to cite if things do go wrong. Every wedding will pitch curve balls. The ability to act under pressure is an incredibly important attribute.
How many revisions are included and what changes are possible?
Clients are often oblivious to the impact of not being organised with changes. Collate all changes in one go for the video team to action. Making a few then approving them only to then have various other family members wade in later is messy and doesn’t respect the editors time.
If you were us, what would you prioritise in the package and why?
Highlights of the whole day into 1 to 2 mins I think is something everyone having a wedding should consider.
