Investing in a wedding film is a big decision, and it's normal to have questions. Here are honest, straightforward answers to the most common things couples ask about working with me. If you don't see your question here, I'm always happy to chat by email at isaacwandreas@gmail.com.
Once you reach out with your date, venue, and a few details, I'll confirm availability and send over a custom proposal with collection options. If you're ready to move forward, I'll send a simple online agreement and invoice. Your date is officially reserved once the agreement is signed and the retainer is paid. Until that point, your date remains open to other inquiries.
My standard turnaround time for highlight films is 6–10 weeks, depending on the time of year and how many weddings I'm editing. I don't rush your film—I carefully sort footage, sync audio, and build your story so it actually feels like your day. If you're getting married in peak season, I'll give you a more specific estimate in your proposal. When your film is ready, you'll receive a private online gallery you can download and share with friends and family.
For weddings in and around Harrisonburg, VA and much of the Shenandoah Valley, I typically don't charge additional travel fees. For weddings farther away—especially out-of-state or requiring overnight stays—there may be a reasonable travel fee to cover mileage, lodging, or airfare. I'll always be upfront about any travel costs in your proposal so there are no surprises later.
I legally license all of the music I use in your wedding film through professional licensing platforms. That means your film is cleared to be shared online without takedowns or copyright issues. I carefully choose songs that fit your story and the overall feel of your day. Because of licensing laws, I usually can't use popular Top 40 songs or specific radio tracks, but I'll work within those guidelines to choose music that still feels modern and emotional.
When conditions and local regulations allow, I love incorporating tasteful aerial footage to showcase your venue and setting. Drone use always depends on weather, venue rules, and FAA regulations. Some locations restrict drone flights or require specific permissions, and I always follow those rules for everyone's safety. If drone coverage is important to you, let me know in your inquiry and I'll let you know what's possible for your venue.
To reserve your date, I require a non‑refundable retainer (a percentage of your total collection), with the remaining balance typically due two weeks before your wedding day. Payments are made securely online, and you're welcome to split the remaining balance into additional installments if that's helpful—as long as everything is paid before the wedding. Full details are outlined clearly in your agreement.
Your wedding day is a once‑in‑a‑lifetime event, and I take that responsibility seriously. If I'm dealing with a minor illness, I will still plan to be there and take appropriate precautions. In the unlikely event of a serious illness or true emergency that prevents me from filming, I will do everything I can to arrange a trusted replacement filmmaker with a similar style and experience level. In that case, I would still handle the editing so your final film feels like my work. If a replacement can't be found, you would receive a refund according to the terms in our agreement.
It depends on the collection you choose, but most couples receive a 5–8 minute highlight film that tells the story of their day in a cinematic, shareable way. Longer documentary edits—such as a full ceremony or full speeches—can often be added on. During the booking process, we'll talk about what you value most (vows, speeches, dancing, letters, etc.) so we can choose the right length and edit style for you.
I'm happy to walk you through the process, talk through the best coverage for your day, or help you decide if video is right for you. Reach out anytime.