Cinematique Films

Destination Wedding in Jamaica with Tabitha McCausland

2010-12-04T20:01:00.000-08:00

taken from Tabitha McCausland's blog http://www.tabmccausland.com/
My trip to Jamaica
December 4, 2010

So it is official I am an international wedding photographer!! I am going to try to put the experience into words but honestly it is days like these that I wish I was a better writer. You know how you hear people say “it was a life changing experience” and you think ummmm yeah right your a wackadoo. Well not to sound cliche but I had a “life changing experience”. At first it seemed the “no problem mon” and “every ting is iry mon” was just something the natives say to us tourists, but at a further look you realize it is not just a saying it is a way of life. They have a carefree no one really wears a watch or is in a hurry lifestyle. They are passionate about love, sleeping, dancing and rum not money or power. When women found out it was my birthday they would HUG me….do you hear what I am saying??? Grab me…put their arms all the way around me and HUG ME!

Here are some things I learned about Jamaica:

1) They drive on the left side of the road which felt really weird.

2) The national fruit is Ackee and it looks like scrambled eggs when cooked.

3) 2nd behind tourism the countries biggest contributory to the economy is a company called Bauxite which mines the soil and produces aluminum.

4) Cauliflower in cashew nut sauce is the BOMB!

5) If you stay on a piece of land for 5 years without someone claiming it then it becomes yours. They call it capturing it and 30% of the whole island is own by capturing.

6) There are goats everywhere! Side of the road in yards everywhere. I did not see one dog but I saw a million goats.

7) Fire coral is serious shit and I do not recommend putting a piece in your bathing suit. Trust me I speak from experience!

8 ) Gave my taxi driver 2,000 Jamaican dollars which is about $23.00 US dollars.

9) A bacon, egg and cheese croissant at a Burger King in Jamaica tastes the exact same as one in US.

10) Pay the extra money to upgrade to ocean view it is worth every penny I was literally rocked to sleep every night to the sound of waves crashing.

I learned so much in just a few days including that I need to slow down sometimes and enjoy my family more. I know I will never be a person who doesn’t wear a watch but finding some balance I know is really important and I will find it!

Hottest Trends in Wedding Films

2010-08-05T21:44:00.000-07:00

Stunning wedding at the Global Gallery in Downtown Orlando.

Venue - The Global Gallery, Downtown Orlando

Event Planner - Laurie Anne Portella, Bliss Weddings and Events

Florist & Decor - Blossoms Orlando

Catering - Arthur's Catering

Cake - Bake Me a Cake

Photographer - Robert McClory

DJ - Scotty B

Officiant - Rev. Kevin Knox

Adapted from The Knot
Imagine your dad, decked out in a tux and with his glass raised, delivering a toast that leaves you and most of your guests reaching for the hankies. Your photographer will snap the pics to preserve the moment, but after the champagne glasses clink together, Dad's words are only a memory -- unless you have them on film. Wedding videography captures the sights and the sounds of your day, evoking a feeling and portraying the day's emotion. Your videographer is bound to catch something you missed. The bonus: With digital video -- often called DV -- becoming the norm, your DVD promises to have a much longer shelf life than a grainy VHS tape. That means future generations will be able to see how Grandma and Grandpa married -- even if at that point they have to ask what a "DVD" is. Here are some of our favorite video innovations.

The Digital Revolution
DV is pretty much the highest quality format that currently exists. One of it's many benefits is that you get super-high resolution on your wedding DVD, and the quality will stay no matter how many copies you burn. You can send discs to people who couldn’t attend as well as to close family and friends along with your thank-you notes, and their versions will be just as good as the original copy.

Hot on DV's tail is shooting in high definition -- the same crystal-clear picture that's driving many to buy flat-screen televisions. With high-def wedding video (if your TV is HD-compatible) you'll see that the quality is incredibly sharp and amazingly clear.

As is the case with most new technology, the drawback to high-def wedding videography is the cost -- since videographers need all new cameras and editing equipment when they make the jump to high definition, their investment is reflected in a higher price. But you can't beat high def for the supersharp, feels-like-you're-there quality -- you might even find yourself reaching out for another slice of cake!

The Subtle Factor
In the past, many brides bristled at the thought of an intrusive, gear-laden cameraman following them around all day. But new technology means a wedding videographer today is much more of a fly-on-the-wall presence than in the past. "My two videographers worked so stealthily, I didn’t even see them during the ceremony," says Rosie, 32. "I looked for understated personalities when interviewing, and it paid off in their quiet work style."

New cameras are built specifically for filming these events, so they're well suited for shooting in low light and don't require bright spotlights. The specialty cameras require so little light (they might need an extra on-camera bulb, but it only has to be about 50 watts), in fact, that your videographer can portray the atmosphere of your wedding as it really happened, rather than how it would look lit up and reenacted on the History Channel.

Knot Note: If you're having a very dimly lit ceremony and the site won't allow extra lighting, consider asking an assistant to raise the lights slightly to film the processional and recessional. The lights on the congregation can then be dimmed when you're at the altar, which is generally adequately lit anyway.

The Sound Check
And don't worry about guests stumbling over microphone wires. Many wedding videographers use wireless mics during the ceremony, hidden discreetly just under the groom's boutonniere (the mic's tiny and black, so you'll never see it on his tux) with a small pack that acts as the transmitter and clips onto the back of his waistband under his jacket.

If placing the microphone on a boutonniere, it should be at least halfway down the lapel since if placed too high it could easily pick up the sound of the groom breathing. At a Jewish wedding, your videographer can even try hiding the microphone in the huppah, an ultradiscreet alternative.

The New Angles
Part of the reason it's become so much easier to get creative with editing is because it's also simpler to shoot from unexpected angles. No more plunking a camera on a tripod and letting it roll. Innovations such as attaching a camera to a pole (it's flexible, sort of like a pole vaulter's pole, so the shot isn't shaky) that can extend from 5 to 23 feet and rotate 360 degrees means you can have a shot start on a close-up of your centerpiece and circle all the way around the table while rising toward the ceiling.

It's like floating, and the camera itself is small -- about the size of a fist -- so it won't interfere with your photographer's pics while giving you otherwise impossible shots (like being alongside the newlyweds while they're lifted in chairs for the hora, a Jewish dance).

Your Own Indie
New approaches to wedding video editing have flourished over the last few years -- gone are the days of long interviews with drunk uncles slurring their congratulations set to a background track of Kool & the Gang. The trend: a combination of documentary and cinematic styles. "We wanted a condensed version of what the whole day was like and something our friends and family might actually want to watch," says Felicity, 28, "so we decided on a highly edited style of video."

Knot Note: Even if you don't want a highly edited video, ask your videographer if you can give him or her a CD of preferred songs to use.

Today's videographers often use filmic techniques (think flowing compositions, dramatic music, and wide-screen shots) to make the video even more dynamic. Effects that were once prohibitively expensive are now much more accessible, and the results are wedding videos that feel more like feature films than ordinary home videos. That's just perfect for your extraordinary nuptials.

-- Miles Stiverson
Thanks to John Zale, director of education, WEVA

Unique Gifts for your Bridal Party!

2010-07-13T20:19:00.000-07:00

SPECIAL PROMOTION NOW UNTIL 11:59 PM ON JULY 14 FOR CINEMATIQUE FILMS BRIDES: Thirty-One Gifts is phasing out their Spring/Summer Collection this month... get these cute prints while you still can and enjoy 10% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER! Spend $31 or more and get the "Littles Carry-All Caddy" (a Fall sneak preview item) for only $5 plus FREE embroidery! Shop online using this unique party link: http://www.mythirtyone.com/shop/eventhome.aspx?eventId=E205205&from=DIRECTLINK

PLEASE NOTE: the 10% discount is exclusive to Carolyn's 31 Gifts and will be deducted and credited once the party closes. Have questions or need assistance? Email Carolyn directly at carolyn31Gifts@gmail.com.
Flier promoting Littles Carry-All Caddy: http://www.thirtyonegifts.com/images/JulyCustomerSpecial.pdf

ABOUT THIRTY-ONE: Unique and affordable purses, bags, baby items, note cards, address labels, bathroom accessories, storage and much more!! Super cute designs! Most items can be monogrammed! All items make excellent personalized BRIDESMAID GIFTS! View the complete catalog online at www.mythirtyone.com/carolyn31Gifts.

--
Carolyn Petagno, 407.579.3773
Thirty-One Gifts, Independent Consultant
www.mythirtyone.com/carolyn31Gifts
~ click the link above to view my website, catalog & specials ~

Affordable personalized gifts for all occasions!
Ask me how you can receive free and half priced items.

Like it a little...place an order!
Like it a lot...book a show!
Love it all...join my team for just $99!
Live your dreams!

Read my blog "A Gift for Every Occasion": http://carolyn31gifts.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Facebook & Twitter: www.facebook.com/carolyn31Gifts or www.twitter.com/carolyn31Gifts

A Michele Butler Events Real Wedding – Mallorie & Matt « Michele Butler Events Blog

2010-05-04T08:49:00.000-07:00

A Michele Butler Events Real Wedding – Mallorie & Matt « Michele Butler Events Blog

Orlando Wedding Photographer | Kristen Weaver Photography | Bridal | Green Wedding

2010-05-03T12:54:00.000-07:00

Orlando Wedding Photographer | Kristen Weaver Photography | Bridal | Green Wedding

Orlando Style Magazine Shoot for May 2010

Green Wedding

Photography - Kristen Weaver Photography

Stylist - Melanie Pace

Coordinator - April Dorsey, The D-Tales

Florals - Lee Forrest, Lee Forrest Designs

Cake - Anna Hightower, Anna Cakes

Gowns - The Collection on Park Ave

Videography - Cinematique Films

Carissa & Kyle = FUN & HOT

2010-03-11T12:41:00.000-08:00

Working with Carissa and Kyle Bealert was such a breeze and really quite entertaining. I had first seen the beautiful bride on a local TV show "Hot Spots" and when she called for information, she was amused that I knew who she was.
The day of the wedding at the Omni at Champions Gate, she was full of energy and ready to marry the man of her dreams with no reservations, only giggles and anticipation. She was so giddy and relaxed before the ceremony that she made us all feel at peace. Here is a clip from her final video that she received yesterday. She posted on our Facebook wall today that she "LOVED LOVED LOVED IT!". We were so relieved to hear that as when I met with her yesterday to give her the video she informed me that her photos from the wedding were not at all what she had hoped for and was very sad at their turn out. She was acutally considering reconstructing the day to recapture thoses priceless memories! I told her that we would be able to pull stills from our footage if she wanted some of the shots from the movie I handed her. She was very happy to hear that!
We love when our clients are blown away by their wedding films and it is the most rewarding experience to know that we were a part of their most amazing day, thus far in their lives. It is always bittersweet for me, when they get their movie as I had chosen several years ago to foego that vendor at my own wedding.
Father Daughter dances will always hold a special place in my heart...

Carissa & Kyle

Omni at Champions Gate

Event Planner - Eventfully Yours (Tracy Marini)

Officiant - Rev. Glynn Ferguson

Cake - Party Flavors (Pricilla Lucas)

Cinematique Films featured on Style House Weddings Blog!

2010-03-04T10:23:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the fabulous ladies at Style House Weddings for the blog post!

“Molly, what would you tell a bride that wasn’t sold on having a videographer at her wedding?”

Well, I would tell her I once felt the same way! Ten years ago when I got married, I thought that my photographer was enough and didn’t even entertain the idea of hiring a professional videographer to capture my day. It was a decision I have regretted ever since. Not only did I have my dream wedding with 200+ guests but my father (who was an intrical part of my day) has since passed away just 2 years ago. If I had hired a videographer, I would have professional footage of my father tearing up as he walked me down the aisle, crystal clear audio of him giving his tender and loving toast, and I could relive our our Father/Daughter dance whenever I wanted. None of this footage was caught and the pictures unfortunately did not tell our story.

Ok, so aside from the obvious reason of preserving our loved ones through video, another great reason is you get a MOVIE of your wedding day! What is cooler than that? With the technology and editing styles available today, the sky is the limit when it comes to producing an amazing cinematic film that captures all the romance, excitement, and SOUNDS of your big day that, let’s face it, will fly by faster than you can stop to smell your bouquet!

Molly is the owner and creativity mastermind behind Cinematique Films, view a sampling of her video clips in our website gallery.

JUST RELEASED: THE BLOCKBUSTER EVENT PACKAGE

2010-01-29T11:55:00.000-08:00

2010-01-19T15:04:00.000-08:00

Orlando, FL – January 19, 2010 – WeddingWire, the nation’s leading wedding technology company, just announced Cinematique Films has been selected to receive the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™ for Videography!

The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ recognizes and celebrates excellence in quality and service within the wedding industry, as determined by recent reviews and extensive surveys from over 500,000 newlyweds.

Cinematique Films is among the top five percent of all vendors in the WeddingWire community, which includes over 100,000 wedding professionals across the US and Canada. Awards were given to winners across 19 different service categories, from wedding venues to wedding videographers.

“We are excited to recognize and honor the success of the top wedding professionals within the WeddingWire Community” said Timothy Chi, WeddingWire’s Chief Executive Officer. “The annual Bride’s Choice Awards™ program has given us the unique opportunity to highlight the best wedding professionals in each region as reviewed by brides and grooms who have utilized their services in the past year.”

We are happy to announce that Cinematique Films is among the very best Videographers within the WeddingWire Network, which includes WeddingWire and Martha Stewart Weddings. We would like to thank our past newlyweds for nominating us for the 2010 Bride’s Choice Awards™.

For more information, please visit our WeddingWire Storefront today by clicking here: http://www.weddingwire.com/biz/cinematique-films-winter-park/a49b9d07f63b61cb.html

About WeddingWire, Inc.

WeddingWire is the only online wedding planning resource designed to empower both engaged couples and wedding vendors. WeddingWire enables engaged couples to search, compare and book over 100,000 reviewed wedding vendors nationwide, from wedding photographers to wedding cakes. WeddingWire also offers an online community and a suite of cutting-edge planning tools, including wedding websites and wedding checklists, all at no charge. For wedding vendors, WeddingWire provides free online management tools creating the only market opportunity that gives businesses control over their clients, reviews, leads and performance. In addition, WeddingWire has partnered with Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, Inc. (NYSE: MSO) to provide its network of local vendors and online wedding-planning tools in the Weddings section of www.MarthaStewartWeddings.com. For additional information, please visit www.WeddingWire.com.

Wedding Videos: How to Hire a Wedding Videographer.

2009-10-26T17:07:00.000-07:00

(as seen on www.topweddingsites.com)
Most brides spend months, if not years, dreaming about their wedding day – visualizing an event that will be as unique and sparkling as a snowflake, dazzingly unlike any wedding before or yet to come, utterly fresh and magical. They may invest hours upon hours searching for the perfect wedding ring.
Yet when those brides look for a wedding videographer -- to capture a living record of that remarkable day, which they will be looking at as long as they’re looking at their wedding rings (even if not as often) – most brides follow a very predictable pattern:
They lump their search for a videographer along with shopping for other vendors, such as caterers, florists, and limousine companies.
They wait until after choosing a photographer before locating a videographer.
They give little thought to what they want their wedding video to actually be like; they just want to know it will be done.
They make their final choice by price.
There is an old axiom in entrepreneurial circles: “Observe the masses – then do the opposite.” That also is good advice for any bride who wants a quality video of her wedding day. Hiring a videographer isn’t just a matter of ticking off a check box somewhere on the prenuptial To Do list. For that matter, settling on the lowest bidder is no formula for securing a video that enthralls generations of viewers.
I will admit to a bias here, as a partner in a videography company that competes on quality, not on price. But statistics support the belief that brides who treat videography as a commodity often regret that view later.
LESSONS LEARNED
The Wedding and Event Videographers Association (WEVA), an international professional group founded in the 1980s, commissioned a 2005 nationwide study to look at brides’ attitudes about videography both before and after their weddings. The brides were asked to rank videography on a personal “Top 10” list of wedding priorities.
Prior to their weddings, barely 50% of the brides listed videography as a Top 10 item. However, after the weddings the emphasis changed dramatically. A whopping 79% of the brides placed videography among their Top 10 items for wedding planning.I would bet that a follow-up survey, checking with brides a year or more after their weddings, would show the percentages climbing even higher. Here’s why: Your video (and your photographs), unlike the contributions of other vendors, are the “to have and to hold” parts of your wedding celebration. They endure -- long after the bouquets have withered, the top of the cake has been taken out of the freezer and shared at an anniversary dinner, and you have forgotten whether the Mikasa platter was a gift from Aunt Sally or Cousin George.
A VISUAL HEIRLOOM
Only the video brings back the voices, the laughter, and the music – capturing not just how everyone looked, but how they were. It preserves moments to be relived and to be shared with people who weren’t present (or weren’t even born).
As time goes by, brides realize that their video was an investment. When they were looking for a caterer or a florist, they were shopping for an occasion. When they were choosing a videographer, they were indeed arranging to buy something that would last as long as their wedding rings.
So, move “Choose videographer” (along with “Choose photographer”) into a separate category on your wedding-planning list. You will live a long time with the consequences of those choices. Choose thoughtfully and choose well.
BE AN INFORMED BUYER
Start by doing your homework. Look at the work of as many videographers as you can. Form an idea of what you want your own video to be like. Finally, make a selection based on the craftsmanship, experience, and personality of the videographer.
Why is “personality” part of the equation? Your videographer will be working closely with you on one of the most important (and potentially one of the most stressful) days of your life. His or her people skills will be just as important as camera techniques and production skills.
If you’re not comfortable with a videographer during your interview process, you certainly won’t be comfortable with them training a lens on you an hour before the ceremony – when you’re still waiting for your flowers, because the florist’s van took a wrong turn, and your maid of honor has just discovered she may have left her shoes at home. Look for someone with a supportive attitude who can be part of the solution -- not part of the problem -- if things don’t go quite as planned. (Tip: They rarely do.)
How do you judge a videographer’s craftsmanship? As with any other major purchase, it’s wise to become a knowledgeable consumer. If you’ve only seen one or two wedding videos, then you have little to go by. Look at a lot of wedding videos – as many as possible.
WHERE TO START
Bridal fairs are a fine place to start your survey. Most bridal fairs will have exhibits by at least three or four videographers. As you notice how various professionals approach their craft, you will get a sense of how they handle visual composition, timing, transitions, titling, and the use of special effects. More important, you’ll form a clearer idea of what you like.
You can do a lot of evaluating online. Most professional videographers have web sites that feature sample clips. Do a web search for videographers in your area, then browse their sites. (Tip: While you’re there, you also may see quotes from satisfied clients. Once you narrow down your choices to a handful of videographers, ask if you can talk to some of those clients about their experiences.)
USE EYES AND EARS
Pay attention to audio quality. Experienced videographers use wireless microphones during the ceremony and the reception to be certain they fully capture your vows, and the speeches of friends and family. Audio is a critical element. If you find a ceremony video where the only microphone used was the one on the camcorder – and the audio has so much room reverberation in it that it sounds like it was recorded in an airplane hangar – look elsewhere.
Some videographers will give you sample DVDs or video CDs. Those allow you further opportunities to study and compare styles. They also help you get an idea of how different videographers design DVD menus and organize DVD content. (Practically no one delivers videos on VHS cassettes now, unless asked to do so. DVDs offer far superior image quality and navigation.)
Does all this sound like a lot of homework? Well, yes. But remember the point: You will live with the consequences of your choice for the rest of your life (and your children and grandchildren will live with the consequences, too). You will be glad you made the extra effort.
LEARNING THE LANDSCAPE
Another benefit of surveying many video companies is that you’ll learn what’s available in the way of additional services. Wedding videographers can do more than just point cameras and roll tape on your wedding day.
For example, many companies offer “Love Story” videos (sometimes called “vignettes” or “couple stories”) as well – either as part of a wedding package, or as an a la carte selection. For a Love Story, usually the videographer will arrange a separate shooting date well in advance of your wedding day. You and your fiancé will be taped, perhaps individually or perhaps together, talking about how you met and what drew you to one another. Often you will do this in a setting that has special meaning to you, such as at a favorite park or at a beach. Footage of the two of you walking hand in hand will be edited into the finished video – which becomes part of your final package, and which may also be shown for your guests at the wedding reception.
Another popular enhancement is a photo montage. You provide your videographer with photos of yourself and your fiancé, from your baby pictures all the way through your engagement pictures, and those are scanned and edited into a custom video presentation, set to music. This too can be shown at your wedding reception.
(Some couples prefer to have photo montages projected as a feature attraction during the reception meal. Others prefer to have them playing continuously on a video monitor somewhere in the reception area, such as at a special table with the guest book and family mementos.)
COUNTING THE COST
As you survey videography companies, you will find yourself collecting package brochures and price lists. Probably you will notice wide variations in prices and descriptions. There are no well-defined “standard services” in wedding videography. Videographers have different ways of bundling their services, calculating fees, and setting payment terms.
The basic cost components in a typical video package (a group of services and “deliverables” -- such as DVDs -- at a single price) tend to be:- How many camera operators cover your event.- How many hours of coverage they provide.- How many add-ons (such as a photo montage) are included.- How extensive the editing of the footage will be.- How many final copies of your video you receive.
Certainly there can be other factors, but those are the most common. What price range should you expect? Sorry, there is no pat answer to that one. The market for videography in your area will have a lot to do with the numbers you find. All things being equal, you can expect to pay more in, say, New York City than you would for a comparable package in Twin Falls, Idaho. And in some places you might see companies discounting packages for weddings during the off-season (roughly from November to March), when business is slower.
Some videographers don’t charge by the hour, but provide all-day coverage at one package price; others offer a graduated scale, providing more time for more money. Some companies have packages that mix and match the number of camera operators, offering two cameras for preparation and ceremony and a single camera for the reception; some limit their packages to strictly single- camera or strictly multi-camera options.
MINIMUMS AND MAXIMUMS
A bare-bones, low-end package, possibly costing in the hundreds of dollars, might provide single-camera, ceremony-only coverage – with the videographer just handing over the tape cassette afterward. At the other extreme, the sky is the limit.
It’s not unheard of for top-tier videographers with established metropolitan studios to charge $10,000 or more for a deluxe package that includes multi-camera coverage of your rehearsal, wedding-day preparations, ceremony, and reception, along with a scripted, multi-camera Love Story, a photo montage, and perhaps Same-day Highlights as well. Highly sought-after videographers can command top-dollar fees. The national average probably is closer to $2,500 - $3,500, but your mileage may vary. (Same-day Highlights, which are increasingly popular, involve having a video editor go along with the camera operators. As taping ends for each part of your wedding day, the tapes are rushed to the editor, who pulls some of the best clips and fashions them into a special presentation. By the time your reception guests are ready for dessert, the highlights are ready for screening. Obviously this requires well-coordinated efforts by skilled professionals, and the prices usually reflect that.)
As video technology begins entering a new phase, more and more videographers are offering High Definition (HD) video as an option. If that is important to you, be sure to ask your videographer; but be prepared to pay extra for it. Someday HD will be the norm – but it isn’t yet. Videographers have to pay a premium for HD cameras and HD editing technology now, and typically those costs get passed along to customers.
READ THE FINE PRINT
When will you have to get out your checkbook? Here, too, there are no real standards. One common arrangement is the 1/3 – 1/3 – 1/3 plan, where you pay one-third of the package price as a booking deposit, one-third in advance (usually a month or so) of the actual wedding, and one-third when the final DVDs are delivered. Also common is the 1/2 –1/2 plan, where you pay one-half of the package price as a booking deposit, and one-half a specified time before the wedding date.
Be aware that the deposits normally are non-refundable. If you make a last-minute change in your wedding date and your videographer isn’t available on the new date, you may not get your money back. (That clause protects the video company from taking a complete loss if it can’t fill the vacated date on short notice.)
All the variations make it doubly important for you to understand what you’re getting when you finally sign a contract for wedding videography. Study the package description and ask questions about anything that isn’t clear to you. If you find you have to make compromises on price because of a limited budget, then be clear about adjusting your expectations. That will avoid misunderstandings later. (“You mean we don’t get…?” “No, I’m sorry, you didn’t pay for….”)
DON’T BE IN A HURRY
Contrary to what you might think, the better videographers won’t necessarily deliver your finished video soon after your honeymoon. A videographer’s work has only begun when the cameras shut down at the end of the reception.
There is a rule of thumb that a minute of finished video requires at least an hour of editing. I’ve found that the ratio actually can be higher when it comes to creating polished, tightly edited wedding videos. Besides, if your videographer is really in demand, he or she will have a backlog of wedding videos to work through before getting to yours. If you’re the only customer, that might be cause for concern.
At our company, we advise brides to expect their videos within four to six months after the wedding. The videographer you choose may have a different timetable; but don’t be surprised if the wait is measured in months, not weeks. Quality video production takes time.
DON’T DELAY
It is a good idea to book your videographer as far in advance as possible. The earlier you book, the more likely it is that the company you want will be available on the day you’ve chosen. It isn’t unusual to book a year and a half ahead. (Another benefit of booking early is that when you lock in a date, you lock in a rate. Video companies often adjust their prices annually. When you book far enough in advance, you may end up paying less for the same package than someone who only books six months ahead.)
Don’t leave the selection of your videographer until after you’ve chosen your venue, or your photographer. Consider different videographers and photographers at the same time. Ask video companies which photographers they recommend, and vice versa. When you have videographers and photographers who have worked well with one another before, the total on your wedding day can be greater than the sum of the parts. Good visual pros feed off one another’s creativity. That teamwork can make a significant difference in the finished visual products. It’s certainly better than having professionals who aren’t acquainted worrying about just staying out of one another’s way – or worse, getting territorial about who has rights to the best camera angles.
EXPERT OPINIONS
Ideally, don’t even choose your ceremony and reception venues until you’ve consulted with your videographer and your photographer. They can give you valuable insights on which places will make for the most attractive footage and pictures, or which places to avoid. (“Yes, it’s a lovely spot for an outdoor wedding – but if the ceremony is after 2 p.m. in June, the wind off the water will have your veil blowing straight out as you go down the aisle.”)This doesn’t mean you give your visual professionals the last word, of course; but it does mean you can reach a more informed decision.
Finally, talk to other brides if at all possible. They can be your best sources about the levels of skill and customer service that a video company offers. If they were happy with what they got, it’s likely you will be too. After you’ve thoroughly done your homework, and trimmed your list of candidates down to two or three companies, then you can come back to these key questions:
1. Will I like having these people around me constantly on my wedding day?
2. Am I confident they will create a one-of-a-kind video that my husband and I will treasure for the rest of our lives?
When the answer to both questions is “Yes,” you’ve found your videographer.

Vendor Spotlight - Anna Cake

2009-09-02T15:49:00.000-07:00

Our First Vendor Spotlight will start with something near and dear to our hearts….WEDDING CAKE!Anna Cakes is out of Orlando Florida and here is her Vendor Spotlight.

How long have you been in business? Well, my 1st official wedding cake was October of 2006…I quit my job in December of ‘06 and officially kissed my dream of becoming a famous singer goodbye to be a cake lady!!!! ahahaha
What is your favorite flavor of cake? I hate cake. Are you kidding?? No really, I am around it so much, it is hard to eat it anymore. I use to say lemon cake with raspberry filling was my fav, but lately I have been partial to coconut with buttercream. Coconut seems to be everybody’s favorite…except for Amy Morelli, (The 2u Collection) of course. She says I tried to kill her, but I didn’t know she was allergic. Geez.
Are cupcakes becoming more popular than traditional wedding cakes? I haven’t seen it from my end. I don’t do many cupcake weddings, although I think cupcakes in general have increased in popularity…they are cute and clean…and somehow the ratio of cake and frosting is always perfect. Mmmm, ok I want a cupcake, now.
Do you have a storefront or work out of your home? I do not have a storefront (yet!) We just met with the Dept of Agriculture last week on a space I am trying to seal in Winter Park (yay!) …and on a side note, there will be cupcakes for sale daily! I very quickly grew out of my home within the 1st few months, and had to rent a commercial kitchen to accommodate all of the orders that were coming in. Things have grown to the point now, though, where I need my own place — and a staff!!!
Do you only make wedding cakes? No, I make all kinds of cakes — anniversaries, baby showers, birthdays, divorce cakes, “adult” cakes…and cupcakes, of course. I did cookies once. Not sure I will do that again. Although I am working on getting this recipe from a former bakery in Indianapolis, where I am from, for a cookie that will melt your face off.
A money saving tip you give your clients about cakes? I always say go small with the “display” cake if you want to. Secure the date based on the cost of a smaller cake. Then call me about a month out with your final rsvp’s. If we need to add a sheet cake to make up the difference, we can! It’s much cheaper, and when they disassemble and wisk the cake away to the kitchen, the sheet cake is cut up and served with the rest of the wedding cake, and no one knows the difference!
Here are a few samples of Anna’s lovely work..

(previously posted on Hot Pink Brides blog)

Bourdoir Shoot with Ashira Photography

2009-08-24T13:02:00.000-07:00

Kalysa of Ashira Photography

"I love Boudoir sessions just as much as I love Weddings. Helping women see their inner sexy, brings out such a creative spirit. The Idea that a picture is worth a tear or a smile, but when a women feels good, and sexy, it is an air that is given off to her partner that makes magic happen. Here at Ashira Photography we try to help you make the magic happen with The Art of Boudoir."

407.242.5433

http://www.ashiraphotography.com/

www.ashiraphotogrphy.blogspot.com/
Email: Kalysa@ashiraphotography.com

Grand Opening Soiree for Cinematique Films and Style House Weddings and Events

2009-08-23T14:41:00.001-07:00

Troft Trailer

2009-08-06T12:05:00.000-07:00

Sabrina and Jason are not your average bride and groom. A couple so eclectic and amazing had to have a wedding fit for a rock star!
Photography by the incredible Tina Sargeant.

Venue The Sandpeal in Clearwater

Event Planner Georgia Events

4th of July

2009-07-27T15:50:00.001-07:00

We were triple booked this past Independence weekend (go figure?) and two of the three weddings were traditional Hindu/Indian weddings. We had a blast working with Jennifer Werneth photography. She and her husband were Hindu newbies and Jeff and I loved showing them the ropes! She was so kind as to credit us on her blog at http://jenniferwernethphotography.blogspot.com/2009/07/nikki-heshans-wedding-july-4th.html Go on, check it out! Their work is amazing!

Cinematique Films Vimeo Channel

2009-07-17T10:23:00.000-07:00

Can't get enough of our films? Well now you can subscribe to our Vimeo channel at http://vimeo.com/channels/cinematiquefilms
and get updates when we post new videos!

To Video or not to video,

2009-07-12T20:23:00.000-07:00

that is the question!

By Elisa Delgardio

Splurge on Professional Videography! It may seem to be out of your budget, but can you really afford not to document and preserve those priceless wedding memories?When a client tells me they don’t want a wedding video I have to stop myself from screaming“Are you crazy?” But, I know they’re not crazy. As a matter of fact, I can be pretty sure thatthey just don’t want a bad wedding video. After years of ‘blooper’ shows depicting wedding horrors filmed by Uncle Harry, it’s difficult not to cringe when you hear the words ‘wedding video’. After all, we live in the ‘age of media’ where all life’s little occurrences and major events can be documented by anyone with general knowledge of how to operate a camera. There is no shortage of bad video footage; video which is often taken for free and given as a gift to the newly married couple. These homespun videos feature bad sound, terrible lighting, blurred images and enough unsteady and quick moving motion effects to make just about anyone dizzy! In comparison to a professionally producedtape, the amateur counterpart is really only successful at capturing embarrassing moments and unfortunate mishaps. Professional videographers, on the other hand, specialize in recording and documenting this most special day in a way that will be cherished by all. Many videographers are members of professional associations; recognized associations include the Professional Videographers of America (PVA.com) and the Wedding & Event Videographers Association (WEVA.com). Professional associations require members to be established in their field and adhere to a code of conduct. However, it is most important that a videographer have an occupational license (issued by the county and/or city in which their business is located) and adequate insurance coverage. They should also have good quality recording and editing equipment that is current with today’s technology; this will result in a more superior product. Almost twenty years ago, I was interviewing vendors for my own wedding. Back in the day when wedding videos were relatively new to the market, they were proportionately expensive. I recall my own choice to spend over $1,000. for the best quality video I could afford as opposed to paying half that price for what I considered ‘inferior and unwatchable’. I know some people thought it was frivolous, but I have never regretted the decision. During the first year of marriage, we watched that tape about two dozen times: we shared it with people who couldn’t be at the wedding and we reveled in the segments that made us laugh. As time passed, so did many of our older relatives; their memory lives on in our wedding video. Now, we share the video with our daughter who is ten. By today’s standards, some people view the video as a bit cheesy – I must admit – but it is irreplaceable.
I always suggest to clients that they interview a few professional videographers and view some sample tapes. Where most amateur videos may be boring to watch – especially when you don’t know the participants – an artistically produced high quality video (or DVD) is always enjoyable, heartwarming and meaningful. Then I share with them the hindsight experiences of other couples I’ve worked with. For example, at a recent wedding, the father of the groom surprised the couple with a special song; he arranged for a piano to be set up in the reception room, and then he performed the song he had composed to honor their special day. Although they will always remember this touching moment, they can not re-experience the sounds and emotions with family and friends in the future because there was no video. Susie Weiss, owner of Wonderful Weddings, believes that “video helps to keep the memories alive”. She prefers to see her clients who may be on a tight budget to opt for an inexpensive video package instead of deleting the video altogether. This can often be accomplished by requesting an unedited tape, or foregoing some of the more time intensive “montage” sequences. The WEVA website (www.weva.com) offers a Brides Guide which describes the value of professional video and video styles, among other features. The WEVA site stresses that “talent, technology and time are three key factors which will affect the pricing of your video”.
Booking Tips - It is important to have a Contract or Letter of Agreement that specifically states:1. Client Contact Info - Names, addresses and phone numbers of the couple, and parents ifnecessary2. Event Info - The day, date, month, year, the type of event (Ceremony, Reception, etc.) and thestart time for each specific event3. Location Info - Location(s) of the event, complete with names and numbers for key contacts at thelocation(s)4. The amount of coverage time, including start and end times5. The name of the person(s) (videographers) who are scheduled to cover the event, along with theiremergency contact info6. Description of the ‘package’ that has been purchased, including the number of cameras, numberof copies, length of the finished DVD/tape, and any special extras such as montages orinterviews, etc.7. The total cost and payment terms, including costs for overtime and travel (if applicable)8. The timeframe for returning the finished product to the customer9. Your rights as a customer in the case of equipment failure, etc.10. Signatures of all parties involved.
[Written and Submitted by: Elisa Delgardio, PBC A Flair for Affairs_ Orlando, FL USA Member: ABC, ISES, OWP http://aflairforaffairs.blogspot.com/]

New Commercial to air on Brighthouse Networks!

2009-07-12T19:31:00.000-07:00

So the lovely Karen Lee of Your Wedding TV asked me to make a commercial to air on Brighthouse during all the fantastic bridal shows like Bridezilla, Who's Wedding is it Anyway, Platinum Weddings and so many more..
SO this is what we came up with! Watch for it live on Brighthouse networks. Listings will post soon.

Why Video?

2009-06-04T07:56:00.001-07:00

Suppose a friend told you they had in one hand a book of professional photos of the day your grandparents were married, and in their other hand a professionally-produced video of that same day, in full color, with actual sound, but that you could only choose one to view and keep as a family heirloom. Which would you choose?

Only video will allow everyone to relive your wedding day as it actually happened -- to see you walk down the aisle, to hear your voices as you exchange vows and rings, to hear and see the toasts, the music, your first dance at the reception...and the chance to preserve the complete story of your wedding. Because your wedding day goes by so quickly, capturing all of the activities, your ceremony and reception, on video will mean your wedding will be preserved for you and your family now, and most importantly...for all the generations ahead.
taken from PVCF member site

Luckily, you don't have to choose! Videography, by no means, can replace photography and vice versa. Just like you wouldn't choose your cake in place of dinner! They go hand in hand and compliment one another in their own way. So, please, have your cake and eat it too! Just make sure it's on video...

Chic Maps by Nikki!

2009-06-01T11:24:00.000-07:00

I have worked with Nikki on several occasions through the years and think she is so talented on SO many levels. I love seeing what she creates from weddings, to antique refinishing to these awesome maps for events!! Read on the learn more about Nikki and her Chic Maps...

"I have always loved weddings and the joy they bring to the couple and those around them, which is why I became a Wedding & Event Coordinator. I especially love planning weddings that really encompass the couple’s favorite things so that when guests arrive at the wedding they say ‘WOW! This is totally them!’ So why not start earlier than your BIG day and give your family and friends an idea of what you have in store for them? And it is for that reason that I began creating Chic Maps by Nikki!

These maps can be used as a creative addition to your wedding invitations, Out-of-Town guest gift bags, Bridesmaid’s Itineraries or even as a unique ‘Save the Date’ magnet, postcard, etc…And if you’re not getting married they are a creative idea for Reunions, Birthday Parties, Baby/Bridal Showers, etc…and can be done wherever your special event is being held, in the U.S. or abroad!

While some of these maps show local attractions, landmarks and airports you can add all sorts of things. Show your guests where you and your fiancés favorite restaurant is, a local day spa, rehearsal dinner location, hotel room blocks or even where he popped the question! Once we’ve worked through all of the locations you’d like to add we can add directions and/or itineraries and decide how you’d like them printed. You can have them done in any size and on any color paper, which can be matched to anything you may have already chosen: dresses, invitations, cake, etc… you can even have them printed on watercolor paper and I can add hand-painted details to each of your maps for that truly personalized touch!

For more information you can reach me at NikkiBiallas@yahoo.com or directly on my cell phone at 321.297.3866!"

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Videographer

2009-05-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

Does the kind of equipment the wedding videographer use matter and if so what should I generally ask for?

While some wedding videographers work with substandard video equipment some of the best wedding videographers insist on using professional gear. While its not necessary that you technically understand what each piece of equipment does it is important to check if they are using gear that is reliable and of high quality. As a general guideline ask them if they are using the following:

1) "Will you be using 3-Chip Digital Video Cameras?"

Also known as 3 CCD video cameras. Make sure they are both digital and are 3-Chip.

2) "Do you use UHF Wireless Lavaliere Microphones?"

These are tiny microphones that are often hidden away from view on the groom in order to insure crisp and clear sound. This allows every precious word to be captured. It's important that your wedding videographer not only has them but that they are good quality. Low quality wireless microphones are prone to interference and you risk the possibility of missing some if not all of the sounds of your ceremony. Generally speaking you normally can not find a good, reliable wireless microphone system for less than $500. It's important so you may want to go as far as ask them what the make and model number of the their wireless system is and check for the price online.

3) "Do you have lighting to mount to your camera or on stands around the room?"

While modern video cameras often times don't require extra lighting in order to simply get a picture, choosing a wedding videographer with lighting will insure not only that nothing will be lost in shadows but in the hands of a professional the lighting can be used creatively to capture your wedding in the most beautiful light. It's important to note however that extra lighting can be seen as somewhat distracting to some guest while at the same time some rooms are so dark that if no extra lighting is used the resulting video will either be too dark, grainy or perhaps even indistinguishable at all. In these tricky situations sometimes a decision has to be made between giving a higher importance to either the mood your trying to create on your wedding day both for your guest and the location vs. the quality of the wedding video that will live on forever.

4) "Will you be bringing a EXTRA video camera, mic and light in case they were to stop working during my wedding?"

Your special day, and all of the moments that make it up, happen only once. It's important to choose a videographer that is ready for any challenge. Choose a professional that can answer yes in all cases otherwise you run the risk of missing and capturing some if not all of your wedding.

5) "Do you offer any special gear such as a camera stabilizer?"

Also know as a "steadycam" or "glide-cam", stabilizers are a extra piece of equipment that attaches to the video camera allowing the videographer to freely move around with the camera yet capture video that is not shaky but perfectly smooth. Rather than always watching what could be a boring shot that does not move because it was taken from a tripod (perhaps even hand held), video shot with a stabilizer will often be more entertaining to watch because it is ever changing as the videographer is able to smoothly moves through the room to capture each and everyone. If this sounds interesting to you make sure to ask your videographer if they offer it and perhaps request to see some sample weddings shot with a camera stabilizer

New Site to go with Our New Look

2009-05-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

Check out our new flash and mobile enabled site for Cinematique Films. We are thouroughly enjoying all the newness of our site, our blog and our office space. Stay tuned for details on our Open House Party! We plan to pull all the stops.

SLV gets a facelift!

2009-05-27T21:14:00.001-07:00

Silver Lining Videography is moving on up and getting a whole new look and feel. Not only are we getting an amazing new studio space with the incredible girls of Your Fantasy Affair, but we have updated our look and made a new name for ourselves, literally. Silver Lining Videography is now Cinematique Films. We wanted something more artistic and no so old fashioned. Silver Lining Videography has been very good to us and we are sad to see it go but we think Cinematique Films will bring us to new heights. Please check out our updated site and new logos, and feel free to come by the new studio in Hannibal Square upstairs from Dexter's in Winter Park.

Rachael & Drew Cinematic Recap

2009-05-27T21:13:00.000-07:00

Rachael & Andy's Wedding from Molly Brown on Vimeo.

Extra, Extra, Read All About It!

2009-05-27T21:10:00.000-07:00

While having coffee this morning with Brandi from the Perfect Wedding Guide, she informed me of a recent mention of Silver Lining Videography in the newest publication of Central Florida Bride magazine.

It was from a wedding last year that was truly an event to remember. Coordinated by Sharia Riley of Your Fantasy Affair, one of the best wedding planners I have had the pleasure to work with, the day was as unique as it was beautiful. Set in a majestic ballroom of the Omni at Champions Gate, Tanya and Darrell McGee, the newlyweds, danced the night away having just said their vows moments before at the First Bastist Chruch of Orlando.

It was a pleasure to work with them, Sharia and photographer Damon Tucci while enjoying the beats dropped by master DJ, Carl Williams. Tanya and Darrell are expecting a bundle of joy and we wish them all the best, they truly deserve it!