How to get the most out of
your wedding videographer
I sometimes get asked by couples how they can help me get the best footage possible for their wedding films. I’ve made a list below of things to consider.
Have a schedule that compliments videography
As a one man team - I can’t be in two places at once. I need to leave to get to the Ceremony with at least 30 minutes to setup all my gear. Often I do a ‘mock’ ready with the groomsmen in the morning while the bridesmaids are getting hair and makeup done. This allows me to capture the dress reveal before the Ceremony. I like to make sure I get the best footage from the day - because it only happens once! If you would like footage of your dress reveal it’s important to make sure this isn’t scheduled too late.
I love to get shots during photo-time. However, because I need to set up for the reception entrance - be aware that I might need to leave photoshoots a bit earlier to do so.
While I am able to move from filming speeches straight to the official dances. If there is a 3 minute interval between speeches and the first dance it can allow me to move my lights to the dance floor and change lenses to best capture it.
Sunset session!
Light is arguably the most important aspect of photos and videos. I highly recommend putting aside 10 minutes during the sunset to have these moments captured. It can also be a nice quiet time for you to spend with each other
Writing letters
Writing and reading each others letters in the morning can be a beautiful and special moment that allows you to sneak in some sweet (or silly) words to each other before the Ceremony. Whether you read them aloud or not is completely up to you. :)
Audio
Your wedding video relies heavily on sound as much as cinematography. When speaking into microphones, take your time and make sure you are speaking into the microphone so the guests can hear what is said. I also like to light the speeches to make you look amazing, so I try to chat with the MC to organise a spot for people to stand. I recommend asking your MC to ensure everyone is standing in the right spot and speaking into the microphone properly.
Have your MC let each speech giver know where the spot is and ask them to encourage people to stay there rather than walk and talk if possible. I will generally chat with them on the night about how things may run so we are on the same page. :)
Be yourself!
You’re hiring a videographer because you want to remember specifically how the day was and felt. Try not to get caught up with being filmed/photographed all day. If you want to be goofy and dance around or cry - let it happen. These are the genuine moments you will look back on and cherish. Just enjoy the best day of your life!
