You only get one chance to capture the emotions, vows, and energy of your wedding day. In the fast-moving DMV, timelines can be tight, traffic unpredictable, and weather a wildcard—so the right videographer isn’t just creative; they’re prepared. At Million K Production, we’ve filmed everything from intimate city hall vows to large estate celebrations. The questions below help you compare studios on more than price, so you can find a partner who protects your memories and your timeline.
The 10 Must-Ask Questions (and Why They Matter)
1) What is your storytelling style?
Cinematic? Documentary? Hybrid? Ask how they balance candid moments with guided scenes and how music, pacing, and color grading support the story. Request full films (not only highlights) to see consistency from prep through reception.
2) What exactly is included in each package?
Clarify hours, number of videographers, audio capture, drone coverage, travel, and deliverables (teaser, highlight, long-form, speeches). Ask how files are delivered and how long they remain available.
3) How do you ensure clean audio?
Great video needs great sound. Look for lavaliers on the officiant and partner, backup recorders on podiums/DJs, and a plan for wind or echoey spaces common around waterfronts and marble halls.
4) How do you handle challenging light?
From dim sanctuaries to bright glass atriums, lighting varies wildly in the DMV. Ask about low-light camera capability, reception lighting that preserves ambience, and how they avoid harsh shadows during entrances and toasts.
5) What’s your approach to timelines and logistics?
A strong team builds buffers for traffic, valet delays, and venue load-ins. Ask how they collaborate with planners and photographers, and whether they provide a pre-wedding production plan so everyone stays in sync.
6) Who will actually be filming our wedding?
Confirm whether the owner/lead will attend or if it’s an associate team. Ask about experience level, how many weddings they shoot per year, and how they keep standards consistent across shooters.
7) What is your turnaround time and revision policy?
Get clear expectations for teaser delivery, highlight film, and long-form edits. Ask how many revision rounds are included, how music licensing affects song choices, and whether you can request specific moments.
8) How do you protect our footage?
Redundant recording in-camera, multiple SD cards, on-site backups, and same-night mirrored drives protect against failure. Ask where and how long footage is archived after delivery.
9) Are you insured and permitted for our locations?
Many venues require proof of insurance; some DC sites and parks require permits. If drone coverage is important, confirm airspace rules and how they handle no-fly zones or weather restrictions.
10) Can we see two complete DMV weddings similar to ours?
Full films reveal pacing, audio transitions, and how a team handles tricky moments. Request weddings from comparable venues—hotel ballrooms, vineyards, waterfronts, or historic mansions—to gauge fit.
Local Insight: What Works in Maryland, DC & Virginia
Peak cherry blossom season brings crowds and delays—build earlier call times. Maryland waterfronts can be breezy; double-mic key speakers. Northern Virginia estates often have distance between prep, ceremony, and reception areas; add travel buffers. Many top venues require vendor insurance and advance load-in details—plan those at least a week out.
The right questions help you choose a team that’s both artistic and rock-solid under pressure. If you’re planning a DC-area wedding and want a film that looks gorgeous and sounds crystal-clear, reach out to Million K Production. We’ll build a plan that fits your vision, timeline, and venues.
