Wedding Videography Terms to Know

We’ve compiled a list of terms to know before your videographer hits the record button:

Videography technology has evolved drastically over the years, and there is a lot more to it than just “fast forward” and “rewind.”

Analog Cameras/Footage

Analog is about as archaic as your home VCR.  Once the industry norm, this format is rapidly becoming passé.  VHS tapes (the product of analog cameras) have a shelf life of about 15 years when stored properly, although the quality will still tend to depreciate. 

Digital Cameras/Footage

The new standard in video technology, digital cameras offer many more functions than analog.  And because they are more receptive to light, less distractive additional lighting is needed.  The original footage does not lose its quality when transferred digitally. 

Digitization

The method of transmitting your wedding-day video onto a computer’s editing system. 

DVD

Also known as Digital Versatile Disc.  DVDs are the product of digital cameras, and they offer increased picture quality and the ability to easily navigate between scenes. 

DVE

Also known as Digital Video Effect, but more commonly known as special effects.

In-camera Edit

Practice where raw footage is shot as neatly as possible to reduce the need for editing later. 

Linear Editing

Editing process in which the tape taken from the camera is edited down using multiple VCRs.  This method is becoming out-dated with the onset of less expensive computer-based systems. 

NLE

Also known as Non-Linear Editing System.  Done on a computer-based system or a stand-alone editing appliance, this method of editing allows for more creativity at the click of a mouse. 

Outtakes

Raw footage that didn’t make the cut onto the final version. 

Raw Footage

Original recordings that have not been edited. 

Video Capture Card

Computer hardware that converts videotaped recordings into digital footage, then turns it back into videotape format to be viewed on any VCR. 

HD Video

Video that is offered as an alternative to standard TV videos and is best viewed on HDTV.  Resolution of HD video is 78% higher than VHS, 60% higher than DVD, and 51% higher than standard TV, leaving you with a result that is extremely clear.