As a bridal makeup artist, I have the pleasure of working with so many talented professionals also in the wedding industry. I met John Morgera, of PGP Wedding Films, in June 2019. John is fun, kind and personable – 3 qualities you definitely want in a professional who will be present on your Big Day. Couples have so many different vendors to choose as well as day-of options and ideas to consider while wedding planning. Having a videographer to capture special moments, live, is such a gift to cherish as time passes. I asked John a few questions and asked him to share insight to help couples make the best choice for their wedding day video. Here he shares some of his professional advice and insight. Please also visit his website to learn more about PGP Wedding Films. John also has a very helpful YouTube channel, Say Yes to the Best, featuring a variety of vendors who share their tips and insight into wedding planning. A must-see for couples planning!
John and I had the pleasure of working together on Stephanie and Martin’s wedding day. Their day was full of so much love, joy, laughter and more. To see a glimpse into what John is sharing, below is a clip from their beautiful wedding day.
“I knew I was in for a good one when Stephanie said: "you have to show me how to cry". There were so many moments throughout the day where knowing how to cry was important - during their first look, during their beautiful ceremony, and during wonderful speeches by both of their fathers.”
What should couples look for when choosing a videographer for their wedding day?
“I think the number one thing you should look for in choosing your videographer is what is important to the videographer. Does it mesh with what is important to you about your day? Do you see three minutes of detail shots such as rings, invitations and cufflinks before you ever see a person? Who do you see other than the couple, and how much? How much do you see from the ceremony and reception versus the portrait session "beauty" shots? There's no right or wrong answer to these questions. If you love all the little details you planned for your wedding, you may love all those details shots, or may be disappointed if you don't have them all. At the same time, are you and your spouse, or your family & friends, what you want to see? When watching a videographer's work, know what's important to you, so you know if the films you see will fit what you want!”
If couples have a photographer what is the advantage of also having a videographer?
“I would LOVE, LOVE, LOVE if people played my films on a loop on their TVs all the time. Sadly, reality (and our electric bills) don't make that happen, so having a photo on your desk at work or on the mantle is so important! At the same time, photos capture your day in a completely different way than a film does. A photo may show you and your spouse smiling while a film can show the goofy thing that you did that made you smile. A photo can show you wiping away a tear, but a video can show you (and allow you to hear) the speech or vow that brought you to tears. Again, it's a different medium. For me, I think a photo is a great thing to give you a reminder of the day, but a video is a way to get immersed in your day all over again. I had one couple tell me one of our longer-form documentary films was like being a guest at our own wedding.”
What are some special moments your videographer is going to capture that you didn’t think of or consider how much you’ll cherish in the future?
“Any videographer is going to get your first kiss or your introduction - if not, get your money back! I think it is so important to get the little moments throughout the day. Dancing with grandparents. A little look during the ceremony or after you walked down the aisle. A prayer before starting the ceremony. So much goes on during a wedding day, and those little moments will mean so much because unlike the big moments, you didn't plan them, but they show what's important to you and the people you love in their element. Capturing those little moments that you aren't necessarily focusing on during the day is what makes your film your film - everyone has a first kiss, but not everyone has the moments with your loved ones.”
Don’t forget to visit and follow “Say Yes to the Best” for helpful wedding planning tips from a variety of wedding professionals.