6 Tips To Make a Better Wedding Video

I thought since wedding season is upon us that I'd share some useful tips for making a better wedding video. Filming weddings can be extremely stressful as you only get one chance to take the perfect shot and there are no retakes.

By applying some of these tips, you should be able to make things a lot easier for yourself.

1. Communicate with the couple, venue, and vendors.

Have a sit-down meeting with the Bride and Groom beforehand. Get to know what they are looking for in their video. Do they want to make sure you capture certain moments? Will there be any surprises or choreographed dances? Will the bride be wearing her Great-Great Grandmother’s earrings? This will make your work stand out. Recce the ceremony and reception venues to find out what where you can film and what equipment you might need. Get acquainted with the vendors. 

2. Be light and fast.

My strategy for weddings is usually to be light with gear and make it as easy as possible to switch lenses and stabilization gear.

I never shoot with a tripod at weddings but the monopod is perfect for getting a static shot and being able to quickly move from shot to shot, angle to angle. You will be running around until the wedding is over so only carry what you need.

3. Audio is crucial.

There are no re-“I Dos” in weddings. It’s best to have multiple audio sources recording. Does your camera capture quality sound? If not, have external recorders ready to go. Use a lavaliere microphone on the bride and groom. Most churches/chapels/venues have sound systems that you can plug your recorder straight into. You may be able to run your sound from the DJ’s sound board.

4. Take care of the “must have” shots.

You may feel the need to experiment on the wedding day, but be sure to always get the traditional “must have” shots. Couples want to see their vows, first dance, and cake cutting. Make sure you have the important things covered before you get all those cool transition shots. Know exactly where you should be and which shots will be your best shots that you don’t want to miss out on. 

5. Capture enough B-roll.

B-roll will be your best friend and not having enough will make your job harder. When the bride and groom watch their wedding video, they will want to see their friends and family in attendance so capture the smiles, tears, and laughs of both the couple and the guests. Take exterior shots of the building in which the event will take place, stained glass or other architectural features, the guests being seated, the food and flower arrangements, and any other special touches you notice.

6. Prepare for low light situations.

Evening receptions can be very difficult to film. After dinner is served, venues dim the lights so the party can begin. Be prepared and have a camera and lenses that work well in low light conditions. Cameras with lower LUX ratings produce better video in low light situations than cameras with higher LUX ratings. 

I hope these tips helped a little! If in doubt then follow the photographer. During the ceremony and the reception, the photographer will take certain posed photos and this would be a good chance for you take candid video of the party as well as the newlyweds.