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There is a first time for everything, and if you have your mind set on producing a wedding video, you will encounter plenty of “firsts” during that initial wedding weekend. There is a first kiss, a first dance, and a first slice of cake. Where will you have your cameras set up for each of these memorable moments? Will you need lights for every shot? How will you manage the audio? When the bride says “I do,” you will want everything in place to ensure that you capture every word and angle. This guide will address equipment needs, event priorities, and typical expectations of the bride and groom and their families.
Remember that each ceremony is unique, every ballroom and reception hall is different, no two events unfold in quite the same way and, above all, every wedding party—from groomsmen to flower girl to the father of the bride—will bring their own personalities, special needs, and last-minute requests. The first bit of advice for all prospective wedding videographers is a quote from human performance expert and author Denis Waitley: “Expect the best, plan for the worst, and prepare to be surprised!”
Traditionally, the family of the bride has paid for photography and videography. In recent years, some of the “who pays for what” has changed, but whoever is footing the bill will be your client. Keep in mind that they will set the guidelines for what is expected of you, what you will cover, and what will be included in your final product. If a wedding planner is involved, it is likely you will have more than one boss. You may come to the table with a package or, perhaps, several to choose from, but be open and flexible to the needs of the family. They might request airport arrival video of international guests or underwater coverage of a scuba wedding ceremony. Saying yes to an unusual request might land you the job and secure the shoot of a lifetime.