Summary: You must capture a video of the entire ceremony from beginning to end. Basic. Simple. In Focus. Little to No Movement.
As there are multiple methods on capturing the ceremony, we recommend a simple ceremony filming procedure. You only need 2 cameras — a primary camera on a tripod and a secondary camera on a monopod. We don’t care about fancy shots or multiple angles. Your only goal is to capture the entire ceremony with basic, steady, in-focus video and audio.
We always provide a complete video of the ceremony, from beginning to end. It’s your job to capture the entire ceremony with both cameras.
CAMERA & MICROPHONE SETUP
Audio
- One (1) lavalier microphone on the Groom
- One (1) lavalier microphone on the Officiant
- External recorder from DJ’s soundboard – only as a backup
Cameras
- Camera A – Main Tripod Camera
- Camera B – Monopod
BEGINNING OF CEREMONY (PROCESSIONAL)
Place Camera A in the back of the ceremony space, towards the side of the aisle. Film a wide/medium shot. The processional is the only time you’ll leave Camera A unattended.
You should stand in the front of the aisle, near the officiant. Use Camera B, on a monopod, to film everyone walking down the aisle. Be steady. Be simple.
EXAMPLE: Your shot should look like this. Steady. Wide. Simple.
BRIDE GETS TO THE ALTER
As soon as the bride gets to the front, you should reposition yourself to the back.
Camera A on a tripod is now your main camera.
Camera B on a monopod is your back-up, but it should still record everything for back-up purposes.
For backup purposes, both cameras should be recording the entire ceremony.
MAIN CEREMONY
Stand in the back of the aisle.
Camera A is your main camera.
Constantly monitor focus, exposure and audio.
Babysit your camera.
Don’t leave your camera.
The only reason to leave Camera A is if the photographer stands in front of you. That’s when you use your monopod, Camera B, and stand side-by-side with the photographer.
Do NOT go to the front of the aisle for any reason, unless the photographer is standing there, and blocking you.
EXAMPLE: Your shot should never look like this at any point.
It’s possible your main camera will fail, turn off, or become corrupted. It happens. That’s why BOTH cameras should record the entire ceremony.
For backup purposes, both cameras should be recording the ceremony.
EXAMPLE VIDEO: