Over the past few months we have slowly closed out our remaining wedding clients from 2005 summer, but it’s been a painful process dealing with some of our clients. This is as a result of what I said in my previous post about restricting how long you give your clients to make decisions about revisions. I would even consider not allowing revisions at all in some cases, especially if you feel confident in your work.
The experience of doing wedding videography was valuable to me in a number of ways, however I have decided that I really don’t want to do it again, but I do have a couple of weddings to do this summer (not 16 or so like last year). The most important lesson I learned from doing it was learning that I do not want to be involved in customer service in any capacity. I do not like dealing with clients very much, and maybe this means that if I succeed in my film career that I should find myself a good producing partner to deal with the investors. I am not that great, or comfortable with, the whole schmoozing thing.
Another valuable thing that I gained from the experience was a slightly thicker skin. It was hard work doing all those weddings. There were some very long days, and at times I wanted to just leave, but I couldn’t do that, just like I couldn’t just leave a film set if I felt like it.
I also managed to become very good with Final Cut Pro, and DVD Studio Pro, which I’m sure will help me when I go to film school. Also, the fact that I now own all my own equipment will give me a distinct advantage when I’m editing my work.
I would certainly caution anyone who wanted to get into this business, but I certainly think it is a great way to get a start in this business.
