How to Choose a Wedding Videographer (Ottawa Valley & Renfrew County) — 10 Questions to Ask

Hiring a wedding videographer can feel overwhelming — everyone’s work looks “cinematic,” and prices can be all over the map.
The good news: a few simple questions will tell you exactly who’s the right fit for your day.

If you’re planning a wedding in the Ottawa Valley or Renfrew County, here are 10 questions to ask any videographer before you book.

1) Can I watch full wedding films (not just highlights)?

Highlights are great — but they don’t show the full story. Ask to see at least one full wedding film so you can judge pacing, audio, consistency, and how they handle real moments (not just “best shots”).
If they only show 60–90 second reels, it’s harder to know what you’ll actually receive.

2) What’s included in your packages — and what costs extra?

Make sure you know exactly what you’re getting: hours of coverage, number of shooters, film length(s), audio, ceremony/speeches, and delivery method.
Also ask about add-ons like raw footage, extra hours, travel, or extra edits.

3) What’s your filming style — and how do you approach the day?

Some videographers are very “fly on the wall.” Others direct a lot. Neither is wrong — you just want a match.
Ask how they handle portraits, awkward moments, and timeline chaos (because it happens at every wedding).

4) How do you capture audio (vows, speeches, ceremony)?

Audio is what makes a wedding film feel real. Ask if they use lav mics, recorders, and backup audio.
A beautiful image with weak audio can make a film feel cheap — so this question matters.

5) Who will actually be filming my wedding?

If you’re meeting a company, confirm whether the person you’re speaking with is the person showing up on the day.
Ask about their team, if they outsource shooters, and what happens if there’s an emergency.

6) How do you handle low light and dark reception venues?

Receptions in the Ottawa Valley / Renfrew County can range from bright barns to very dark halls.
Ask to see examples of reception footage and how they keep things clean, flattering, and not overly “grainy.”

7) What’s your turnaround time — and when will I receive everything?

Get the timeline in writing: when the highlight/feature film arrives, and when you’ll receive ceremony/speeches (if included).
Also ask if they offer an “early delivery” option if that matters to you.

8) What’s your backup plan for gear and footage?

This one separates pros from amateurs. Ask:

• Do you bring backup cameras/audio gear?

• Do you record to dual cards (or have redundancy)?

• How do you store + back up footage after the wedding?

You don’t need a technical deep-dive — you just want confidence that your memories are protected.

9) What rights do I have to share the film? Can I request changes?

Most videographers allow you to share your film online — but ask if music licensing affects that.
Also ask what “revision” policy looks like: small tweaks vs. major re-edits, and what’s included.

10) Can you walk me through your booking process and contract?

Ask how booking works: deposit amount, payment schedule, cancellation/reschedule policy, travel fees, and coverage start/end times.
A clear contract is a good sign — it protects both you and your videographer.

Quick Tip: Trust your gut on communication

If someone is slow to respond, unclear, or dismissive during booking… it usually doesn’t improve later.
The right videographer should make you feel calm, excited, and confident.

Planning a wedding in Pembroke, Renfrew County, or the Ottawa Valley?

If you want wedding films with real moments and timeless storytelling, I’d love to hear about your day.
Reach out here to check availability: https://www.jackalbertweddings.ca/pricing

I’m Jack — a wedding filmmaker based in the Ottawa Valley, serving Pembroke and Renfrew County. I focus on honest storytelling, clean audio, and cinematic imagery that still feels real.