Stop Before You Shoot! Tips for Capturing Good Video Footage of Your Wedding

We have explored the reasons for capturing video of your wedding. Hopefully you’ve heeded our advice. If you have opted for getting the video shot by a non-professional we have advice for making sure your cameraperson gets the scenes you want and the best results possible.

The key to getting the important shots and scenes for your movie is planning beforehand. If you have a game plan you are much more likely to be ready when those great moments present themselves. Check out our blog www.My-Photo-Video.com for detailed tips and explanations for producing good quality video footage.

General
1. Know thy equipment. Be sure to understand the functionality and features on the camera. A Flip will have very different capabilities than a $1000 camcorder.

2. What extras will you need? Extra batteries, tapes and flash memory cards aren’t sold at the bar. Prepare the night before.

3. Key shots list. Make a list of the important moments you want to capture. Here are some shots you’ll want:

Walking down the aisle
Vows
First kiss
Leaving church or venue
Entrance into reception
Best man’s toast
First dance, father-daughter, mother-son dances
Bouquet toss
Guests – don’t focus just on the couple. Go easy on the guests toasts
More than ceremony and reception – your wedding experience also includes the rehearsal, bridal shower, honeymoon, etc. Be sure to include those moments too (if possible)

4. Don’t forget the b-roll. Take shots of buildings, scenery, banners, signs, invitation, food, shoes, etc.

Shooting Video

Two cameras are better than one. Multiple angles and more coverage will result in a better final edited movie.
Nice and easy. Be conscious of how quickly or slowly you pan and zoom. A nice smooth movement will avoid your viewers getting seasick from the jerky to and fro common in home movies.
Have tripod, will travel. Using a tripod will make it much easier to get great video shots. If you know you’ll be shooting from one spot for a while, your legs and arms will thank you. There are also great table top tripods available on the market that are easy to travel with and do a fine job keeping your footage still and smooth.
Try to film near a stereo speaker at the ceremony. Even if you can’t get good video (only applies with multiple cameras) the audio can be added with the appropriate footage.
Get a lot of closeups of the couple and guests.

What if you did decide to hire a pro, but don’t know where to start or what questions to ask? Next time we’ll provide you the info you need to know.

As part of these great tips, Storymix Media is going to be offering their Custom Wedding Video Wedding Mix package to one lucky reader. This $200 value product is great for turning your raw video into a great 20-30 minute highlight movie that will be a treasured keepsake.