Solo Wedding Filming: Is It Possible?

Capturing the memories of your wedding day is important to many people, but hiring a professional videographer can be expensive. Luckily, it is possible to film a wedding yourself or with the help of friends and family. This can be a more affordable and intimate option, with loved ones able to capture moments that a hired videographer might miss.

If you're planning to film a wedding yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, decide who will be shooting the video. You may want to designate a specific person as your videographer, or you can ask multiple people to take turns filming throughout the day. It's also important to have the right equipment, such as a tripod, smartphone, or camera. Make sure you have enough storage space and that your devices are fully charged before the big day.

Additionally, get to know the venue beforehand so you can plan your shots and be prepared for any lighting or space constraints. Finally, don't be afraid to ask the couple about their vision for the video and any specific moments they want to be sure to capture. With a little planning and preparation, you can create a cherished memory of the wedding day.

Choosing a camera

Choosing the right camera is crucial for filming a wedding, and there are several factors to consider when making your selection. Here are some tips and suggestions for choosing a camera that will help you capture the special moments of the big day:

Camera Type

The type of camera you choose will depend on your preferences and budget. Some options include smartphones, tablets, DSLRs, or traditional video camcorders. While a professional-grade camera can provide better quality, it's not necessary to spend a fortune on expensive equipment. Even a smartphone can capture decent footage, especially if you use a tripod and proper mounting.

Image Quality

Consider the image quality you want to achieve. Modern smartphones and DSLRs often offer 4K video recording, which can provide stunning visuals. However, keep in mind that higher resolutions will also result in larger file sizes, so ensure you have enough storage space.

Low-Light Performance

Weddings often involve low-light conditions, especially during the reception. Look for a camera with excellent low-light performance, such as the Sony A7S II, which is known for its ability to capture clear footage in dimly lit venues.

Zoom Capabilities

A camera with good zoom capabilities will allow you to capture both wide shots of the venue and intimate close-ups of the couple and guests. A zoom lens is particularly useful during the ceremony when you need to quickly change your focal length without moving your position.

Audio Quality

Don't forget the importance of audio quality. Choose a camera with a good built-in microphone or consider using an external microphone for clearer audio. This is crucial for capturing the vows, speeches, and other special moments.

Stability

To achieve steady and smooth footage, consider investing in a tripod or a gimbal stabiliser. This will help you avoid shaky footage, especially if you're filming handheld. A tripod also allows you to set up your camera in one place and focus on capturing the action without worrying about holding the camera.

Battery Life and Storage

Weddings can be long events, so make sure your camera has sufficient battery life to last through the day. Bring extra batteries or a portable battery charger as a backup. Additionally, ensure you have enough storage space (memory cards or internal storage) to record the entire event without running out of space.

Lightweight and Maneuverability

Choose a camera that is lightweight and easy to manoeuvre. You'll likely be moving around a lot during the wedding, so a bulky and heavy camera may become tiring to carry. A compact and lightweight camera will allow you to stay agile and capture moments from different angles without fatigue.

Remember to plan ahead, scout the venue in advance if possible, and create a shot list to ensure you don't miss any important moments. With the right camera and some careful planning, you'll be well on your way to capturing beautiful wedding footage.

Camera settings

Firstly, ensure your camera is set to shoot in Full HD (FHD) mode, or 1080p. While 4K offers higher resolution, it consumes more storage space and may cause playback issues on your computer. FHD still provides excellent quality and is more practical for editing and sharing.

Secondly, consider your camera orientation. Shooting horizontally in landscape mode allows you to capture more of the scene, including the couple, wedding party, and guests. This format also ensures your video fills the entire TV screen during playback. Be cautious not to lock your camera in portrait mode, as this can result in an awkwardly angled video.

Image stabilisation is another essential setting. Activating electronic image stabilisation in your camera settings will reduce shakiness and improve the overall smoothness of your footage. Additionally, holding the camera with two hands further enhances stability.

Battery life is critical, so ensure your camera batteries are fully charged before the event. For longer events or when access to power sources is limited, consider investing in a power bank to ensure uninterrupted filming.

Storage space is another consideration. Wedding videos can quickly consume memory, so ensure you have ample space, ideally 64GB or more. If your camera uses SD cards, ensure you have a large-capacity card, and consider having a backup. Alternatively, free up space by transferring existing photos and videos from your device to a computer or external drive.

Lastly, remember to put your phone or camera in airplane mode to prevent interruptions during recording. This simple step ensures that incoming calls or notifications do not disrupt your filming or interfere with the audio.

Framing and composition

The Rule of Thirds

One of the most well-known rules of composition is the rule of thirds. This rule states that you should divide your frame into thirds, creating a grid of nine rectangles, and place points of interest on these lines or at their intersections. This technique helps guide the viewer's eye and creates a sense of balance and context. It also helps eliminate distractions and can convey what the character is thinking or feeling.

Symmetry and Balance

While the rule of thirds is a useful guideline, there are times when breaking it can be effective. Centering your subject in the frame can create symmetry, which our brains find pleasing. Symmetrical shots are often used to convey the beauty of a scene or to help the audience focus on the subject. However, symmetry should be used sparingly, as overuse can create conflicting messages and irritate viewers.

Leading Lines

Leading lines are natural or imaginary lines in your environment, such as fences, buildings, or roads, that direct the viewer's eye towards your subject or another significant element in the scene. Leading lines can be used to create depth and add an element of depth to your footage. They can also be used to convey a sense of movement or to guide the viewer's eye through the frame.

Headroom and Leading Room

Headroom refers to the space between the top of your subject's head and the edge of the frame. It is important to leave a gap to prevent the scene from feeling cramped or rushed. Leading room refers to the space between your subject and the direction they are looking. If your subject is looking to the left of the screen, place them on the right to avoid confusion.

Depth of Field

Playing with the depth of field can help you emphasise the subject and remove distractions. A shallow depth of field, achieved by opening up the aperture, can create a cinematic and surreal effect. On the other hand, a deep depth of field, where a larger area is in focus, is better suited for establishing shots or context.

Frame Within a Frame

Using elements in your environment, such as windows or doorways, to create a frame within your frame can subtly highlight your subject and add depth to your shot. This technique also has psychological effects, as it adds highlighted elements that make the audience feel connected and involved in the storytelling.

Audio

Capturing high-quality audio is essential for a great wedding video. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best sound:

On-Camera Microphone

Use an on-camera microphone to capture ambient sound during the wedding prep, such as laughter or reactions from the wedding party. This is a simple and fool-proof way to capture quality audio throughout the day. While it may not be perfect for speeches, it can be a good backup if your other audio sources fail.

Zoom Microphone

Speeches are a crucial part of any wedding film, so ensure you capture clear and high-quality audio by using a Zoom microphone. Plug this into the soundboard during the reception. Reach out to the DJ or band beforehand to ensure you have the right cables, typically XLR cables.

Sound Check

Always do a sound check to ensure your audio levels are optimal and the sound is crisp and understandable. Use professional headphones to guarantee strong audio that can be used in post-production.

Lavalier Microphone

Use a wireless lavalier microphone on the groom to capture their first-look reaction and the exchange of vows. This small microphone can be placed in the groom's inside jacket pocket. Remember to do a sound check before the big moments and remove the microphone for photos and videos, then put it back on for the ceremony.

Multiple Audio Sources

For an outdoor wedding, consider using multiple audio sources. In addition to a lavalier microphone on the groom, plug into the soundboard with a Zoom microphone, and use an on-camera microphone as a backup. Protect your equipment from the weather with gear like a dead-cat wind protector to ensure clear audio.

Windbreaker

If you're filming outdoors, bring a windbreaker to shield your phone audio from harsh winds.

Digital Audio Recorder

If you want top-notch sound, consider using a digital audio recorder instead of a smartphone. Sync up the audio and video clips in post-production.

External Microphone

If possible, use an external microphone to improve audio quality and cut down on ambient noise.

Additional Phone for Audio

Alternatively, use another smartphone to record audio up close during important moments like the ceremony and speeches. Use the Sound Recorder or Voice Memo app and place the phone near the person speaking.

Headphones

Use professional headphones to monitor audio levels and ensure the sound is clear and free of distortion.

Mic Placement

Be mindful of microphone placement to ensure it's not visible in photos and videos. The photographer can also remind you to remove the mic before capturing their shots.

Syncing Audio

Use software like Plural Eyes to sync your audio in post-production.

Communication

Communicate with the couple, wedding planner, and venue management to understand their expectations, the timeline of events, and get tips on great locations for shooting.

By following these tips, you can capture compelling audio that tells the couple's story and creates a memorable wedding video.

Editing

The editing process is where all the footage comes together to create a cohesive and polished wedding video. This process can vary depending on the equipment used, the style of the video, and the level of editing software utilised. Here are some general tips and guidelines for editing a wedding video:

• Organisation: Before beginning the editing process, ensure that all the footage is organised and labelled clearly. Create folders for each part of the wedding (e.g., preparation, ceremony, reception) and save the corresponding video clips in these folders. This will make it easier to locate specific clips during the editing process.
• Select the Best Footage: Go through all the footage and select the best clips that capture the key moments of the wedding. Look for clips with good audio, stable footage, and clear focus.
• Create a Timeline: Import the selected footage into your editing software and create a timeline. Arrange the clips in chronological order, or in an order that tells the story of the wedding day.
• Audio Syncing: If you have multiple audio sources, such as lapel mics or external recorders, sync the audio with the corresponding video clips. This ensures that the audio and video are in perfect harmony.
• Colour Correction and Grading: Adjust the colour and lighting of the footage to create a consistent and aesthetically pleasing look throughout the video. This can include correcting white balance, adjusting exposure, and adding filters or presets.
• Audio Mixing: Mix and master the audio to ensure clear and balanced sound. This may involve adjusting volume levels, adding sound effects, and reducing background noise.
• Transitions: Use transitions between clips to create a smooth flow to the video. Common transitions include fades, cuts, and wipes.
• Add Music: Choose appropriate music that complements the visuals and the overall mood of the wedding. Ensure that you have the necessary licenses to use the music.
• Titles and Credits: Add titles and credits to introduce the couple, display important information, and acknowledge the people involved in creating the video.
• Refine and Finalise: Review the video from start to finish, making any necessary adjustments. Pay attention to small details, such as ensuring that there are no abrupt cuts or audio glitches. Export the final video in the desired format and resolution.

Frequently asked questions