What Videography Offers and Photography Misses
In today’s visually focused world, media has evolved beyond still images. Videography adds a new layer to an experience. Jeff Bien-Aimé, founder and lead videographer of Flare Hill Productions, shares the unique benefits of incorporating videography to your next event.
“A videographer is someone who captures the essence of your event.”
Jeff Bien-Aimé, Founder and Lead Videographer of Flare Hill Productions
From Film School to Wedding Videography: Jeff’s Journey
From a young age, Jeff was captivated by all forms of media and journalism, which eventually led him to film school. During his senior year, he faced a challenge that would shape his future: creating a short horror film without dialogue or sound in less than two weeks for the school’s film festival. It was a whirlwind of emotions—excitement, nervousness, and pressure—but Jeff not only completed the project ahead of schedule, but it also won first place at the festival. This pivotal experience inspired him to launch Flare Hill Productions shortly after graduation, with an initial focus on corporate media.
In 2018, after approximately three years in the corporate realm, Jeff was hired as a second shooter for a wedding. When the primary shooter was unable to make it, Jeff was thrown into the lead role. Despite feeling nervous, he completed the shoot and realized that weddings were where his passion lay. Unlike corporate media, which can often be repetitive, weddings bring a unique set of challenges—requiring flexibility in high-pressure moments, quick thinking, and the ability to meet tight deadlines. They also offer a rewarding opportunity to capture once-in-a-lifetime moments. Now, six years into filming weddings, Jeff’s passion hasn’t waned. He continues to embrace new cultures, tackle new challenges, and grow as a videographer with every event.
The Art of Videography: Emotions in Motion
In Jeff’s words, a videographer is someone who captures the essence of your event. While photography freezes moments in time, videography captures multiple angles and movements, like the first look or the exchange of vows, allowing for a more active portrayal of the day. Photos show the emotions, but video gives you the chance to feel them. Though photographers and videographers often use similar equipment and share the goal of delivering great work, it’s essential both vendors work in harmony to ensure each captures the best moments. Videography has the unique ability to transport you back to the event, making it feel like you’re reliving it in real time every time you watch the video. While there are many styles of filming, Jeff’s favorite is the documentary style. This approach allows him to film real, unscripted moments rather than staging scenes, ensuring the most authentic, heartfelt moments shine through, capturing the couple in their truest light.
Choosing the Right Videographer
One important piece of advice Jeff offers to anyone searching for a videographer is to find someone who connects with your love story, brand, or vision for the event. The amount of time you’ll need for a videographer can vary depending on the scope of work. For example, a wedding videographer’s timing depends largely on the structure of the day. If the event doesn’t involve many location changes, 6 to 7 hours may be sufficient. However, if there are multiple locations for preparation, the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception, you’ll likely need 8 to 10 hours to capture everything.
Videography offers something that photography alone simply can't match—the chance to relive your special moments in motion, sound, and emotion. Whether you're capturing a wedding, corporate event, or any other milestone, a skilled videographer like Jeff Bien-Aimé can help tell your unique story in the most authentic and meaningful way.
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Photo Credit- Flare Hill Productions
