There's a "first time" for everything, and if want to focus to make a wedding video there will be plenty of "firsts" during that initial wedding weekend. First kisses are a must as well as a first dance and even the first slice of cake. Where will you put your cameras set up to capture every one of these unforgettable moments? Do you require lighting to take every photo? How do you handle the audio? When the bride is about to say "I do," you need everything to be in place to ensure you record every word and every angle. This guide will discuss the requirements for equipment, priorities for the event and expectations typical of the bride and groom as well as their families.

Things to Consider                      

Be aware that every wedding ceremony is different, each reception hall and ballroom are distinct, no two weddings are conducted in the identical way. And, most importantly of all, every wedding guest--from groomsmen to flower girls to the father of the bride's bride--will be unique, with their own individual personal style, requirements, and last-minute requests. The first tip to all wedding videography blue mountains who are considering it is the following quote from the expert in human performance and writer Denis Waitley: "Expect the best, plan for the worst, and prepare to be surprised!"

Traditionally the bride's family is the one who pays for videography and photography. Recently, the nature aspects of "who pays for what" has changed, but the person who is paying for the cost will be your customer. Remember that they'll set the guidelines on what's required of you, the items you'll be covering as well as what will be included in your final document. If you are a wedding planner there is a good chance that you'll be working with multiple bosses. It is possible that you will arrive at your table with an set of packages or perhaps a variety to pick from however, you must be open to the requirements of your family. They may request an airport arrival video footage of guests arriving from overseas or underwater footage of a wedding ceremony in scuba. If you agree to an unusual request may earn you a gig and ensure the shot of a lifetime.

Of course, typical weddings will have a set of rules concerning time, dates and equipment. Do you plan to film your rehearsal meal? Do they need footage of the bride and groom in their dressing rooms, getting ready for the wedding day? Are they looking for you to stay on for the entire reception, or are they looking for video coverage of ceremonies, cut of cake as well as the dance at first? The duration of the event and the venue of each event are crucial aspects to take into consideration when you prepare your equipment list and put together your crew. If you're working with a the confines of a budget it will affect certain choices. Make sure you are transparent with your client regarding the amount you'll be able to collect and the amount you'll be compensated to complete the task correctly. After all contingencies and details are discussed, an agreement that is signed by both parties forms the basis upon which you develop your strategy.

It's possible to film an entire wedding on your own but having a skilled helper can do wonders. The assistant can take care of an additional camera if needed as well as keep batteries in good condition and ready to go, supervise the recording media, and be able for any unexpected task. There could be other issues like strike or location changes and set-ups to handle. A larger crew as well as an additional or fourth camera may be needed. The ability to back up and upload footage is a crucial aspect to consider. They may also be charged with recording the videos as they are able to save them. Employing a well-trained, responsible crew lets you focus on your job as a videographer. Knowing that you've got all of the crucial shots that you need from at minimum another angle, will help keep you focused and in control.

The Gear List

With the appropriate personnel, you'll require the proper equipment to accomplish the job correctly. Although there isn't a perfect number for cameras, the suggested minimum is two identical or similar camcorders mounted on sturdy, lightweight tripods. Take a look at our article about selecting a camera. Which video camera is the best for you?

A third hand-held camcorder is a fantastic addition when you have the team and funds enough to justify the additional expense. Because you'll editing the final product by using footage from all sources, it's useful for you to use cameras that can capture the similar format, are aligned, and are properly balanced.

Lighting is a vital element of every video production. A simple light kit such as one like the Impact Qualite300 2 Light Kit as well as the Smith Victor 2 Light KT750LED Umbrella Kit, or the ULite Three Light Kit for Lighting Kit will provide you with the right lighting for the majority of situations. But, wedding ceremonies and reception aren't common shootings. So, the majority of lighting you choose to use should be placed in a specific way. Make sure that your lights are off the ceilings and walls whenever you can, and utilize diffusers or softboxes in the event that direct lighting is required. These methods will give you plenty of lighting. In most instances it is not necessary to utilize any lighting whatsoever, as they could have a significant impact on the atmosphere of the occasion. Another option is to use the use of a camera-mounted light such as the Genaray's LED-5300, 120 LED dimmable compact on-Camera Light that you can be used in specific situations like conversations during your cocktail time. It is something you should discuss with the bride prior to getting married. The idea of scouting locations prior to the wedding date can provide valuable information for determining the best lighting as well as other aspects.

Impact Qualite 300 Focusing Flood 2 Light Kit

The process of establishing a complete plan to record audio is likely to be the most stimulating part of your wedding photography. It is important to record the sound of your people in the room when they "ooh" and "ah" the bride strolling along the aisle. Or shake their glasses as a toast of congratulations to newlyweds. The onboard shotgun microphone will probably provide enough coverage of the crowd However, a good digital recorder such as the Zoom H6 or Tascam DR-40 is a different option. In reality it is possible for a digital recorder to be useful in a variety of occasions. It can be placed on the lectern or altar when you recite the vows, or even on the table of the bride and groom at the time of the reception meal to record candid comments.

Zoom H6 Portable Recorder Field Kit

After your ceremony's conclusion, reception provides you with an array of recording options. Toasts will be made and speeches, which is why it is advisable to have a handheld audio source, like one like the Sennheiser EW 135-P G3 System that comes with the 835 Handheld Mic is an extremely useful device that includes XLR and 1/4" output cables that connect to the camera's microphone input.

Sennheiser Ew 135-pG3 Camera Mount Wireless Microphone System with 835 Handheld Mic

Making a line through the PA system can be the most clean and reliable audio feed. However, an alternative of some kind even if it's a shotgun microphone that's on the camera is crucial. Be sure to get audio cables in various lengths, and various adapters like XLR and 1/4", RCA and 1/8" mini connectors. Listening to your music with a high-quality set of headphones such as those from the Sony MDR7506 and those from the Senal SMH-1000 is crucial.

Senal SMH-1000 Professional Field and Studio Monitor Headphones

After all of your equipment requirements have been completed, you can create an itinerary for each wedding you plan to book and thoroughly review it on the night prior to the event. Along with lights, cameras audio equipment, as well as hardware, be sure to be stocked with cables adapters, batteries, chargers and power strips, cables as well as recording equipment. Other important items include gaffer tape as well as an instrument kit.

Making Professional Connections

Alongside your personal team, you'll be required to communicate with and coordinate the shoot with the other wedding professionals involved in on the wedding. Wedding planners If there is one, will be able to assist. There will almost certainly be a photographer whose requirements closely mirror yours. Contact them ahead of the time, if you can and/or early on the day of your wedding, at the earliest. Find out the wedding's schedule and shots to discuss ways you can most effectively organize your efforts.

DJ is another person who you be required to contact in the earliest possible time. In addition to toasts and the cut of cake you'll be required for the throwing of the garter belt and bouquet. Make sure you have two cameras in place in case you want to take a photo of the initial dance which you are able to prepare in conjunction and coordinated with your DJ.

Contacting the musicians personally is also a great idea. Although you might already be aware of live bands or soloist, contacting the musicians prior to their arrival is a good manner to ensure that your presence won't go unnoticed and you could ask for them to notify you when they're ready for the start.

Be Thorough

There's always a lot to be done, even before guests arrive. You should have at least one camera on hand to shoot when flowers arrive and are laid out on tables. They will have programs, guest books, tables of champagne glasses and plates of food. Take as many beautiful photos as you can for cutaways and an assemblage.

If you plan to film the groom and bride getting ready, a handheld camera for each spot is the best. Make sure you capture every detail you can. Photograph the makeup and hair along with the shoes and ribbons to the bridal couple and their guests. The bow ties being tied and the nerves at the last minute of the groomsmen and groomsmen can help to build the atmosphere of the celebration. It is only necessary to have background noise and your shotgun microphone is sufficient for this.

As guests begin arriving and the festivities begin to unfold, make sure you are prepared to record the moment you see something "special" or out of the normal. The arrival of a 12-door stretch limousine or a militaristic contingent wearing full dress can be great ways to make a video that is unique in its exclusivity.

In Conclusion

As time passes, you'll discover your own unique methods and ways of recording your wedding's day. There are some fundamental guidelines to help you begin off with a great beginning. At the beginning of the day Set up and secure the light stands you'll use. After reviewing the lights and tying off any cords that power them remove the lights' heads to ensure security. Keep them close to be set up easily whenever you need they. Set up your ceremony areas with the help of your tripods before the event. Be sure to take an expansive cover shot sufficient to cover the people in the audience when they get up. Be sure to observe the bride's face on more than one lens from the moment she arrives at the wedding until the time she departs. Make sure you get cutaways from the parents of both the bride and groom along with any important family members or other dignitaries. Create an interview space within the reception area. The best man, parents and maid of honor are all essential!