HERE ARE OUR ANSWERS TO THESE COMMON QUESTIONS:
Q: I'm on the fence about even having a Videographer. Why should I have one?
A: This is a question many brides ask themselves before the wedding...but not having a professional Videographer is a major regret AFTER the wedding, and is in fact ranked as one of THE BIGGEST regret Brides have after their weddings.
Here is an article that puts it into perspective just why you may want to "jump down from that fence" and make sure to get a professional Videographer (like us!) for your wedding: http://www.cvideosolutions.com/bridesguide/-the-greatest-investment-you-can-make-for-your-wedding-is-already-in-your-budget
Here is an article that puts it into perspective just why you may want to "jump down from that fence" and make sure to get a professional Videographer (like us!) for your wedding: http://www.cvideosolutions.com/bridesguide/-the-greatest-investment-you-can-make-for-your-wedding-is-already-in-your-budget
Q: What makes Complete Video Solutions different from other Videographers?
A: Unlike some who really have nothing different to say (saying "we treat our customers great" or "we do quality work" is NOT setting anyone apart as there are a lot of good videographers in town!), we truly have features and products that NO OTHER VIDEO COMPANIES IN MICHIGAN CAN OFFER.
Online-Integration and Ease. When you book you will receive your own personalized webpage with Complete Video, where you can make changes, add info, update contract or make payments. Any paperwork or checklists that I need filled out will be sent to you digitally for you to fill out at your leisure, making it unnecessary to schedule countless appointments. We stay on top of what we need leading up to your wedding, so if you choose us, you can just check "Video" off of your list, as we've got it covered.
Unique Services. We truly offer style and services that are untouchable and totally unique. From our Video Guest Book, to Instagram Trailers, to "Same-Day Editing" to our unique "Slow Motion Video and Photo Station", you'll find creative ways to make your wedding stand out that you won't find anywhere else. We also use drones and stabilization equipment to ensure the highest quality Video available.
Expertise. Owner Tom Santilli, is a popular TV personality (Featured Film Critic for Channel 7 WXYZ Action News) and professional journalist in addition to an award-winning Videographer and Entrepreneur. His wedding blog, articles and experience give our company access to an incredible wealth of information and contacts to help you in your planning that simply no other wedding vendor can offer you. We will be much more than your videographer, we will use Tom's experience and connections to help answer any question you may have, get you the best deals, and provide you with everything you need for your wedding. Head Videographer Jeremy Pulford is among the very best and respected Wedding Videographers working in Michigan, and personally oversees the production of every event.
Unmatched Reputation. I mentioned this before but it's worth considering: How many videographers have a perfect 5-Star rating on EVERY SINGLE WEDDING WEBSITE? For being in the business for many years, our reputation speaks for itself. We simply come through every time with an amazing keepsake, and we were voted #1 Wedding Videographer in Detroit 5 straight years for a reason. We have been in business now for over 14 years and have NOT ONCE had a dissatisfied couple. Don't believe us? Look it up!
Accolades and Awards. Tom and his team have won several awards for their video work in the wedding industry, including recognition from WPPI, Telly, Aegis and Pegasus Awards. Our company has been awarded the top honors from Wedding Wire and The Knot for the past several consecutive years, and we were also recently inducted into The Knot "Vendor Hall of Fame," the site's highest honor.
Customer Input. Most of all, we feel we are different because of the amount of input we allow you to have. We check our ego at the door and allow for as much or as little input into the process as you would like. You get a say on everything, from what's included, to the editing style, to the length of your video, to music selections and much more. We help guide you along, giving you our expertise advice and opinions along the way.
Those are just a few unique ways that Complete Video is different than the rest!!!
Online-Integration and Ease. When you book you will receive your own personalized webpage with Complete Video, where you can make changes, add info, update contract or make payments. Any paperwork or checklists that I need filled out will be sent to you digitally for you to fill out at your leisure, making it unnecessary to schedule countless appointments. We stay on top of what we need leading up to your wedding, so if you choose us, you can just check "Video" off of your list, as we've got it covered.
Unique Services. We truly offer style and services that are untouchable and totally unique. From our Video Guest Book, to Instagram Trailers, to "Same-Day Editing" to our unique "Slow Motion Video and Photo Station", you'll find creative ways to make your wedding stand out that you won't find anywhere else. We also use drones and stabilization equipment to ensure the highest quality Video available.
Expertise. Owner Tom Santilli, is a popular TV personality (Featured Film Critic for Channel 7 WXYZ Action News) and professional journalist in addition to an award-winning Videographer and Entrepreneur. His wedding blog, articles and experience give our company access to an incredible wealth of information and contacts to help you in your planning that simply no other wedding vendor can offer you. We will be much more than your videographer, we will use Tom's experience and connections to help answer any question you may have, get you the best deals, and provide you with everything you need for your wedding. Head Videographer Jeremy Pulford is among the very best and respected Wedding Videographers working in Michigan, and personally oversees the production of every event.
Unmatched Reputation. I mentioned this before but it's worth considering: How many videographers have a perfect 5-Star rating on EVERY SINGLE WEDDING WEBSITE? For being in the business for many years, our reputation speaks for itself. We simply come through every time with an amazing keepsake, and we were voted #1 Wedding Videographer in Detroit 5 straight years for a reason. We have been in business now for over 14 years and have NOT ONCE had a dissatisfied couple. Don't believe us? Look it up!
Accolades and Awards. Tom and his team have won several awards for their video work in the wedding industry, including recognition from WPPI, Telly, Aegis and Pegasus Awards. Our company has been awarded the top honors from Wedding Wire and The Knot for the past several consecutive years, and we were also recently inducted into The Knot "Vendor Hall of Fame," the site's highest honor.
Customer Input. Most of all, we feel we are different because of the amount of input we allow you to have. We check our ego at the door and allow for as much or as little input into the process as you would like. You get a say on everything, from what's included, to the editing style, to the length of your video, to music selections and much more. We help guide you along, giving you our expertise advice and opinions along the way.
Those are just a few unique ways that Complete Video is different than the rest!!!
Q: What are your packages?
A: See our most current packages here. It is common that video companies offer "packages" for weddings...Although we do offer package deals, our belief is that you don't fit into a certain mold, or package. Every bride, every wedding, is different. So we custom-build a package that is right for you. Most commonly, we offer a "Basic" 5 hours of coverage, used however you need. Or we can offer "Unlimited" coverage, which is just what it sounds like: Unlimited coverage throughout the entire wedding day, from morning until night, at as many locations as required to cover your day (between 10am and 10pm). In all scenarios, we never "charge more" for the editing: it is included in all packages, regardless of number of hours of coverage.
Q: How much do you charge?
A: This is by far the most commonly asked question, and rightly so! We are always upfront with the cost of our services, but the truth is, each wedding is different, and involves different requirements based on your wants and needs. The best way to get a quote is to contact us and give as much information as you can about your wedding day, and what parts of the day are important to you. Once we hear that, we may have some additional questions, but after 1 or 2 emails or phone conversations we should be able to give you an accurate price...Other factors such as the time of year, location, etc. can play into the price. We do offer discounted rates for Friday, Sunday and what we consider to be "off-season" weddings.
Here is a study released by TheKnot.com on wedding budgets and spending - Click Here for the Article. You will see that the average amount spent on Videography nation-wide is just over $1800. Detroit also ranked #23 as the "most expensive place to get married."
You will find that our prices are very competitive...even though we offer an above average product...but EVERY company will tell you that. What every other company CANNOT tell you, is that they have our reputation: Voted #1 in Metro-Detroit 5 consecutive years. Top Honors on TheKnot.com AND WeddingWire.com for the past FOURTEEN straight years. Inducted into TheKnot.com's "Vendor Hall of Fame," their most prestigious honor given, and we are the ONLY Video-specific company in Michigan to have ever received this. Just look at our 100+ reviews on ANY wedding website, and you will find PERFECT 5-Star Ratings from brides who have used our services. Simply put: There is not another company in Michigan with our reputation.
Remember, you always get what you pay for. Couples who book with us tend to have Videography high on their priority list, and are looking for quality, creativity, and personality. We are not the cheapest Videographer in town, nor are we the most expensive. Most of our in-season, edited packages beginning at $2200, and we do give Friday/Sunday and off-season discounts.
A complete list of our current Videography Packages along with pre-discount pricing is available here.
Here is a study released by TheKnot.com on wedding budgets and spending - Click Here for the Article. You will see that the average amount spent on Videography nation-wide is just over $1800. Detroit also ranked #23 as the "most expensive place to get married."
You will find that our prices are very competitive...even though we offer an above average product...but EVERY company will tell you that. What every other company CANNOT tell you, is that they have our reputation: Voted #1 in Metro-Detroit 5 consecutive years. Top Honors on TheKnot.com AND WeddingWire.com for the past FOURTEEN straight years. Inducted into TheKnot.com's "Vendor Hall of Fame," their most prestigious honor given, and we are the ONLY Video-specific company in Michigan to have ever received this. Just look at our 100+ reviews on ANY wedding website, and you will find PERFECT 5-Star Ratings from brides who have used our services. Simply put: There is not another company in Michigan with our reputation.
Remember, you always get what you pay for. Couples who book with us tend to have Videography high on their priority list, and are looking for quality, creativity, and personality. We are not the cheapest Videographer in town, nor are we the most expensive. Most of our in-season, edited packages beginning at $2200, and we do give Friday/Sunday and off-season discounts.
A complete list of our current Videography Packages along with pre-discount pricing is available here.
Q: How many cameras do you use?
A: We always use at least 2 cameras, and by "cameras" we mean video-cameras. Some situations require more than just 2. We never, ever, do a 1 camera shoot, and advise you to look elsewhere if you find a "pro" video company that does. There is no good way to make a 1-camera shoot look professional. Often times, we simply use as many cameras as we need in order to cover your event in the best possible way...without "over doing it" and turning your wedding into a cluttered movie shoot.
Q: Do I get to choose who my Videographer is?
A: We here at Complete Video Solutions are a team...a well-oiled machine. We have several Videographers and Editors that work for us, all of which are experienced, awesome and hand-picked by the owner, Tom Santilli. We have full faith in every single one of our team members, so you are in good hands no matter who is your Videographer. That being said, we do understand that some couples love having the "peace of mind" of knowing that they are getting the "owner" or the company's "top shooter." For that reason, our "Signature" Packages will come with the guarantee that you will get EITHER Tom Santilli (the owner) or Jeremy Pulford (the Head Videographer) as one of your day-of Videographers. This is, of course, subject to their availability at the time of booking. If you do not go with these packages, you still may end up with Tom and/or Jeremy as your day-of Videographer, but we do not guarantee this up-front, so if this is important to you, we urge you to go with one of these listed packages. If not, we usually assign events about 3 months in advance, and at that time we'd be able to tell you specifically who your Videographer(s) will be. No matter who is your day-of Videographer, with Complete Video Solutions, you will be guaranteed one of the top creative professionals in the business.
Q: What are the advantages in having 2 Videographers in my package instead of just one?
A. Simply put: Having a 2nd Videographer is what will make your video stand apart creatively. With 1 Videographer, although you will still get some creative shots and moments, we are mostly focusing on event "coverage." With a 2nd Videographer, we now have the freedom to get those highly creative "Cinematic" shots with one guy, while the other is focusing on "coverage."
Having a 2nd Videographer helps early in the day if you need two Videographers in two different locations (like one with the girls getting ready and one with the guys). At the Ceremony, we are able to get more angles of coverage, including a close-up of the bride AND the groom during vows (without a 2nd Videographer, we are limited to a wide-shot and a close-up of the bride). After the Ceremony, one Videographer can follow along the Bridal Party for their photo session, while the other arrives early at the Reception to get shots of the room and your decor prior to guests arriving. And finally, in a room of hundreds of people, having 2 Videographers at the Reception can really add to our ability to cover the room, not miss anything, and still make sure we get those Cinematic-style shots.
All of this being said, we do still do a lot of 1 Videographer shoots each year and there is nothing wrong with this...but we simply can do more creatively with 2 Videographers.
Having a 2nd Videographer helps early in the day if you need two Videographers in two different locations (like one with the girls getting ready and one with the guys). At the Ceremony, we are able to get more angles of coverage, including a close-up of the bride AND the groom during vows (without a 2nd Videographer, we are limited to a wide-shot and a close-up of the bride). After the Ceremony, one Videographer can follow along the Bridal Party for their photo session, while the other arrives early at the Reception to get shots of the room and your decor prior to guests arriving. And finally, in a room of hundreds of people, having 2 Videographers at the Reception can really add to our ability to cover the room, not miss anything, and still make sure we get those Cinematic-style shots.
All of this being said, we do still do a lot of 1 Videographer shoots each year and there is nothing wrong with this...but we simply can do more creatively with 2 Videographers.
Q: I'm having a hard time deciding on the packages: If I need Basic coverage or Unlimited coverage, and if I need 1 or 2 Videographers. Help?
A: No problem. For coverage, we offer and suggest "Basic coverage" - what we define as up to 5 hours of coverage - to those looking for JUST coverage of your Ceremony and the main parts of the Reception. We suggest one of the higher packages with "Unlimited" coverage - as many hours as needed between the hours of 10am - 10pm - for those wanting more thorough coverage or a more cinematic product...for those wanting "getting ready" shots, having a "First Look" or having an extended photo session in-between your Ceremony and Reception.
For how many Videographers to have, we suggest having 2 Videographers for large events (over 230 people), if your day requires it (say, you need two things captured in two different places at the same time), or if you are simply wanting the best of what we can offer from a creative standpoint.
Keep in mind too, that you can always add or upgrade your package at a later date, so you can book a Basic Package and later upgrade it to Unlimited if you want. However, adding a 2nd Videographer at a later date is subject to availability at that time, so if you are on the fence about having 1 or 2 Videographers, we always suggest going for 2.
For how many Videographers to have, we suggest having 2 Videographers for large events (over 230 people), if your day requires it (say, you need two things captured in two different places at the same time), or if you are simply wanting the best of what we can offer from a creative standpoint.
Keep in mind too, that you can always add or upgrade your package at a later date, so you can book a Basic Package and later upgrade it to Unlimited if you want. However, adding a 2nd Videographer at a later date is subject to availability at that time, so if you are on the fence about having 1 or 2 Videographers, we always suggest going for 2.
Q: How will my video look and how much input will I have?
A: The "style" of our videos is definitely described usually as "Cinematic" but it differs based on your input. We will ultimately edit the video according to how you want it to look, so you will get everything that is important to you. And we make the Video as long as needed to fulfill all of your input. On average the longer custom-edited Videos are around 60-75 minutes in length, but we've done Videos as short as 10 minutes and as long as 3 hours, depending on what that particular couple wanted...we also offer 15-20 minute "Signature Highlight Films," 3-7 minute "Recaps" and short sneak-peek "Trailers" as add-ons or included in some of our other packages.
As for how much input, the answer to this is: "as much or as little as you want!" Some brides know EXACTLY every detail on how they want the video shot and put together, while other brides give us complete creative control over their video...There is no right or wrong approach to it! We are here to create for you your unique video, and we guide you through the process to make it easy for you, and one less thing to worry about.
As for how much input, the answer to this is: "as much or as little as you want!" Some brides know EXACTLY every detail on how they want the video shot and put together, while other brides give us complete creative control over their video...There is no right or wrong approach to it! We are here to create for you your unique video, and we guide you through the process to make it easy for you, and one less thing to worry about.
Q: Do you offer HD (High Definition) or 4k shooting and how is the final product delivered?
A: We absolutely shoot in 4K and 100% of weddings that we do are shot in 4K/HD. The "Signature" Packages include 4K Master Delivery as well. We can deliver your wedding digitally online, or on USB thumb or hard drive...as of January 2021, we have phased out ALL physical media delivery (discs, Blu-Rays, etc) as this is no longer a viable option, nor is it a good way for our couples to properly archive their weddings for the future.
Q: Do you use Drones in your Videography service?
A. The answer is yes! Being a cutting-edge Video company, we have the latest and greatest tools to make your video professional and unique. We are certified Part 107 pilots by the FAA to fly drones commercially so you can count on us to do high-quality work and keep safety as a number one priority. Drone usage varies from event to event, as we are not able to fly the drone in certain areas, or if there is bad weather or high winds, or any number of factors. Please check with us if you are interested in having a drone, and if our drone is available and the conditions are right, we will fly it. Booking a drone in your package is subject to availability and requires an additional $200 deposit when you book. In the case that the drone is not able to fly for whatever reason, this amount turns into a credit for upgrades or future services with our company (no refunds are given on drones).
Q: How far will you travel?
A: Short answer: Anywhere!!! In Michigan, out of Michigan, anywhere in the United States or Canada, or beyond! Let me know the details and I will include all travel arrangements in the cost of the package. Typically if we have to travel over 75 minutes away from where we are located (in Chesterfield, MI), we may need a room for our crew members as part of the package. We'd be happy to discuss your individual needs.
Q: How long until we receive the finished videos?
A: I take it as a compliment that many brides want their video back the day after their wedding!!! The truth is, I try to get the video back to you as soon as possible, but with that said, I also am focused on providing you a quality video that includes all of the things we discussed. I would never "rush" through an edit just to get it to you on deadline...So what that means is, I do not guarantee any return time on the video, but I can say that it is normally in the range of 3-7 months from your wedding day. You will have the video forever, keep that in mind, and the extra time spent waiting is resulting in your video being given the attention that it deserves!
This all being said, if you have a Trailer in your package, the Trailer will be ready for you within 4-6 WEEKS after your wedding...all other videos will be ready depending on which package you chose. For our "Signature Packages," the final Videos will usually be ready within 90 days of your wedding. With our "Creative Packages," we usually tell couples to expect anywhere from 4-6 months. Challenges due to the pandemic HAVE increased return-time on videos, so you can always check in with us to get your specific status.
This all being said, if you have a Trailer in your package, the Trailer will be ready for you within 4-6 WEEKS after your wedding...all other videos will be ready depending on which package you chose. For our "Signature Packages," the final Videos will usually be ready within 90 days of your wedding. With our "Creative Packages," we usually tell couples to expect anywhere from 4-6 months. Challenges due to the pandemic HAVE increased return-time on videos, so you can always check in with us to get your specific status.
Q: What are the main differences between your "Slow-Motion Video/Photo Station" and other companies offering just Slow-Motion Video Booths?
A: Just like anything else that has become "hot" or "popular" over the years, there is a rush for every company to offer this new service to you. The bad news for you is that it becomes increasingly impossible to decipher the quality services from those "hacks" that are out there just trying to make a buck.
We are proud that we were trail-blazers when it came to the Slow-Motion Video Booth industry. Our experience and expertise (video is our thing!) has allowed us to perfect what we do, and that quality and attention is passed along to you, our clients.
Not only are we experienced, but we use top-notch quality cameras, lighting, backdrops and equipment. Our booth looks slick...you'd be surprised how many other booths look like horrible eye-sores, especially sitting inside your beautiful reception room that you spent months planning out.
You can really separate the hacks from the pros though, by finding out about their camera. We shoot with a camera that gives you true, crisp HD Quality, shooting at high-frame rates. That high-frame-rate is what allows the Slow-Motion to look smooth and professional. So many others of our "competitors" that have popped up offering Slow-Motion, are simply not doing it the right way, shooting with lower frame rates and little knowledge. The difference to you is clear in the end-product AND the experience: Again, you get what you pay for.
We are proud that we were trail-blazers when it came to the Slow-Motion Video Booth industry. Our experience and expertise (video is our thing!) has allowed us to perfect what we do, and that quality and attention is passed along to you, our clients.
Not only are we experienced, but we use top-notch quality cameras, lighting, backdrops and equipment. Our booth looks slick...you'd be surprised how many other booths look like horrible eye-sores, especially sitting inside your beautiful reception room that you spent months planning out.
You can really separate the hacks from the pros though, by finding out about their camera. We shoot with a camera that gives you true, crisp HD Quality, shooting at high-frame rates. That high-frame-rate is what allows the Slow-Motion to look smooth and professional. So many others of our "competitors" that have popped up offering Slow-Motion, are simply not doing it the right way, shooting with lower frame rates and little knowledge. The difference to you is clear in the end-product AND the experience: Again, you get what you pay for.
Q: Do you offer any discounts if I book Videography along with your Slow-Motion Video/Photo Station?
A: We do offer multi-service discounts if you book any Videography package along with our Slow-Motion Video/Photo Station. Click here to see all of our packages and pricing.
Q: Do you offer JUST Photo Booth or JUST Slow-Motion Booth, if I wanted one and not the other?
A: As of 2019, due to the popularity of our Slow-Motion, we no longer are offering JUST Photo Booth.
Q: What happens if I want to find out more or book your services?
A: First I'd say, congratulations and thank you, you've just made one of the best investments you can make regarding your wedding!
To hold the wedding date, a flat non-refundable deposit of $600 is required for any 1 Videographer package, $800 for any 2 Videographer package, and an additional $300 if booking the Photo/Slow-Motion Video Station. After the deposit and a contract is signed, you will receive a Welcome package from Complete Video Solutions (via email), describing what will follow leading up to your wedding. Generally, we will contact you a few months before your wedding, where I will send you online forms to fill out that we call "Video Questionnaires." These forms are submitted online and contain everything we need leading up to the wedding. We will be finding out all of the important details of your wedding, and you can offer some guidance on how you want the finished video to look. If we need anything from you (bridal party names, etc.) you will have been given a list of the needed items.
Typically, the remaining balance (after the deposit) is paid 30 days prior to the wedding date. We accept cash, check or online payments via PayPal/Venmo.
To hold the wedding date, a flat non-refundable deposit of $600 is required for any 1 Videographer package, $800 for any 2 Videographer package, and an additional $300 if booking the Photo/Slow-Motion Video Station. After the deposit and a contract is signed, you will receive a Welcome package from Complete Video Solutions (via email), describing what will follow leading up to your wedding. Generally, we will contact you a few months before your wedding, where I will send you online forms to fill out that we call "Video Questionnaires." These forms are submitted online and contain everything we need leading up to the wedding. We will be finding out all of the important details of your wedding, and you can offer some guidance on how you want the finished video to look. If we need anything from you (bridal party names, etc.) you will have been given a list of the needed items.
Typically, the remaining balance (after the deposit) is paid 30 days prior to the wedding date. We accept cash, check or online payments via PayPal/Venmo.
Q: WHAT WAS YOUR RESPONSE DURING THE CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC?
A: Within days of the pandemic starting in March 2020 - we posted online a FULL Coronavirus Postponement/Cancellation Policy. You can read it here: www.cvideosolutions.com/coronavirus. Simply stated: If we are not able to accommodate you on your newly rescheduled day, we are offering FULL refunds...that means deposits and balances.
We want our couples to book with us in confidence knowing that we will work with them as best we can during these crazy times.
In addition, our Video crews will adhere to all CDC guidelines and will socially distance appropriately at all events. We will wear masks when appropriate or upon request. For our Slow-Motion Station, the on-site attendant will disinfect the touch-screen after every use and will keep the entire Station area clean and sanitary throughout the event. We will do everything possible to maintain a safe and non-threatening work environment for our staff, our couples and guests using our services.
We will continue these policies indefinitely into the future.
We want our couples to book with us in confidence knowing that we will work with them as best we can during these crazy times.
In addition, our Video crews will adhere to all CDC guidelines and will socially distance appropriately at all events. We will wear masks when appropriate or upon request. For our Slow-Motion Station, the on-site attendant will disinfect the touch-screen after every use and will keep the entire Station area clean and sanitary throughout the event. We will do everything possible to maintain a safe and non-threatening work environment for our staff, our couples and guests using our services.
We will continue these policies indefinitely into the future.
Do you have any other questions that were not answered above? Contact us with your questions and we'd be happy to answer them!