Videography, as a new art form, offers choices in style, format, shooting and editing techniques. Technology is rapidly expanding its potential, making highlight footage on special web sites, second language videos and live, real-time telecasts to a distant web site both possible and financially feasible.

Yet, as the value of video grows, some couples continue to avoid it. They may fear its potential obtrusiveness as many have been traumatized by cameras and microphones thrust in their faces. Professional videographers can now be nearly as discreet as photographers. Battery-operated camcorders don't require wires and carts. Ambient light supplemented by a 20-watt bulb with a diffuser is sufficient to illuminate a subject without illuminating the entire room.

Selective shooting minimizes the videographer's exposure to guests. It is primarily the amateur and part-time videographers who become obtrusive due to their inexperience. They cant anticipate events and then have to compensate for being caught off-guard. A professional videographer should defer to the photographer so they can work as a team.

"The main reason people want video is for its documentation value," explained Mike Callahan of Black Tie Video in Boston. "With 200 people at a wedding, the hosts are continually distracted. Video shows them their wedding as their guests experienced it." Sending your video to guests who were unable to attend the wedding because of distance or illness makes a meaningful gift and allows them to feel like participants. Only video captures the music, laughter and movement of a wedding. It creates a family history that children and grandchildren will one day watch.

Creative shooting and editing may be used to show long shots and close-upsthe tears on faces, the details of flowers, dresses, tablesettings, the ambiance of the room. While editing, some videographers take their cues for style from the music the couple selects. The finished video may vary from 45 minutes to two hours and should be fluid and entertaining. While digital is the latest and best format, the professional quality of the camera and lenses remains more important. For most couples, the final product will be on VHS tape. A high-quality disc for a DVD player could easily double the costs.

When choosing your videographer, view samples of their work and select one whose esthetic tastes correspond most closely to your own - just as you would your photographer. It's still a new business,& Callahan said. There are no formal degrees. Don't assume all videos and all cameramen are the same.