A wedding videotape should never be considered a substitute for still photographs. However, by virtue of its sound and movement, a video tape can preserve a distinct and important part of your wedding. Imagine being able to see and hear your vows being said, reliving again the emotions of the moment. A video of your wedding and the following festivities will capture the ?real life? that otherwise goes unobserved, and is a poignant, often humorous, accompaniment to the traditional wedding photographs.

Find a professional videographer the same way you shop for a photographer: Look at his work, and talk with him about his style of taping. Start looking at least four months before your wedding, and reserve a firm date as soon as possible.

Be clear about pricing structure. Fees will generally depend on the number of cameras, editing time, and special production needs. Some videographers will simply charge per camera, per hour; others may film as much as possible and then selectively edit the footage into a polished cassette, all for a package price.

In a preproduction planning session, talk with the videographer about the events you would like taped. You may want to design your own package to include footage of the rehearsal, the bachelor dinner, a bridal shower, you and your groom in final preparation for the ceremony, interviews with your parents, special guests, activities, and groups of friends at the reception . . . all captured on film in sight, sound, and movement for years to come. Don't let the fact that you may not own a video cassette recorder enter your decision. Rent a machine when you want to share the tape with your friends and family. And who knows . . . you might even receive a recorder as a wedding gift.