Many of today's brides are hiring wedding videographers to record their special day. Knowing what to look for in a wedding videographer and what to record in writing will help ensure that all your wedding videography goes smoothly.

Things To Do:

• Ask for recommendations from banquet managers and photographers.
   
• Make sure that your videographer does not use a regular VHS camera. The standard video camera for professionals is S-VHS, although if you have the money and you want television quality, find a videographer who uses a Beta Cam or JVC KY27.
   
• Ask that your final copy be recorded on Hi-Fi tape. It is more durable and should last longer.
   
• View full-length demonstration tapes of videographers and check them carefully for lighting, sound and the inclusion of important wedding traditions.
   
• Check to make sure that your ceremony site allows videotaping.

Include in Your Contract:

• General wedding information -- the date, times and locations of all events and the number in your wedding party.
   
• The video -- what you want included in your videotape (music, baby pictures, any special effects, etc.) how many cameras will be used in the shooting, the name of the cameraman, how many final copies you will receive and the length of the video.
   
• Other important information -- what package you're getting, how many hours it includes, your deposits and remaining balance and when these payments are due.