Beginner Aid

Hi everyone,
I'm 19, a student at FAU, and my Dad is in his mid fourties. We are doing research for starting a business where we will tape video's of ceremonies (weddings, bar mitzvah's, and etc.) I am very fortunate to have found this forum, for i need some help in starting out.

My parents do have friends in the business, but they are in New York (we are in Florida.) We are going to visit them soon to learn more. But nethertheless, what can i do at the moment to educate myself on this business option?

What are some recommended websites that can aid in obtaining information on techniques and camera's, and on pricing and everything general? What can i do right now to learn more? What tips can you suggest?

My dad is ready to invest in this business prospect. So i just need a lot of beneficial info.

Thank you.
-stan

With the number of subjects you need to learn (hardware, software, lighting, sales/marketing, audio, dvd authoring, wedding creativity, etc.)
I would recommend you consider an apprentice approach.

Find the best wedding videographer's in your area- You'll learn the right things from the start rather than having to make all the mistakes yourself in an industry where your customer (brides) are not known to be very forgiving if something goes wrong.

You are at a great age to do something like this as you can offer enthusiasm and low/no cost help while you learn. A pro videographer should recognize the benefits as well of someone with a great attitud that is able to help with the equipment, second camera shots, basic editing, etc.

Check out www.weva.com for videographers in your area.

Good luck-

Sandler S.

VideoETC is entirely correct. When I was a young man I spent two wonderful years being mentored by a card carrying Master Photographer in Berlin, Germany. Even though I am 59 yrs. old I recall those days with a fondness that is seldom matched in my memories. I did not spend the entire time doing work with Herr Schmidt free. Of course it started off that way but after a short time I was reimbursed for my time at a level comminsurate with my talent/knowledge. By the way this was still photography but the idea is the same. We all want to jump in as fast as possable and be successful but take my, and V.ETC's
word for it, the time and money saved will more then make up for your investment of effort and time. Anyway my wishes for your and your fathers success in this venture.