With the widespread availability of low-cost HD camcorders, a lot of couples consider giving a friend or relative a camera and letting them put shoot their wedding video. While this way of thinking may save you some money now, it will almost certainly disappoint you.

You only have one chance to get the video right, and a professional videographer possesses the skills and experience necessary to ensure a beautiful production. From using professional-grade equipment to knowing and anticipating the often frantic pace of the wedding day, an experienced and skilled videographer will capture beautiful video in the midst of all the activity. The final edited production will be polished, flowing from one scene to the next and telling a story.

According to a study commissioned by Wedding and Event Videographers Association International (WEVA), “ninety-eight percent of surveyed newlyweds recommended that brides have their weddings videotaped.” Of the couples who did not have their wedding videotaped, 63 percent of them “either somewhat or strongly recommend that future brides hire a professional videographer.”

Don’t regret not having a professional to preserve the memories of your special day.