Crystallizing wedding moments in video is probably a task as daunting as the planning of the ceremony itself, especially if you are at a loss at how to choose and pick from the hours of footage, in an effort to come up with a wedding video which is truly worth remembering, and not just another video to stack in the bookcase as a souvenir of years gone by. These tips should be able to encourage you to bring out your creative spark, and end up with a video that is truly a celebration of love and union.

Planning is the essential first step. Coordinate with the couple as early as possible prior to the event. Be familiar with the venue beforehand, and if the ceremony and reception will be held in different venues, make sure that you have a walkthrough of both facilities as well. Ask the couple about the details of the wedding, such as its style, the people the couple are planning to invite, and any other unusual aspects which can affect the presentation. This information can give you a good idea as to how to do the coverage, from choosing the appropriate types of shots, to determining the feel of the footage in the editing phases. The rehearsal is also the best time to make a dry-run of the coverage; besides, there are special moments during a rehearsal which can be used to complete your final footage.

Remember that the highlight of the event is the wedded couple, and it is important to consider their preferences. Take as many shots of the couple as you possibly can, from the rehearsals to the reception. Capture subtle moments which highlight the event, apart from the wedding kiss and the exchange of vows, and make the couple the center of the video by having people comment on how lovely they looked. Also, have the wedding theme at the back of your mind while covering the event. Take shots which emphasize the theme; if it is a beach wedding, set the ocean as a backdrop for many shots. If it is an autumn wedding, include elements of fall in your footage, such as auburn oak trees and golden sunsets.

The aisle walk is one of the most important moments of the event: make sure you have a clear line of sight as the bride enters the aisle! This is a one-shot deal, and if you miss this opportunity, you’re final product can go bust. Also, be sure that you coordinate well with the still photographer so you won’t get in each other’s way. In this way, both your outputs contribute in making a truly special coverage. At the editing stages, leave your ego at the door and remember that although this is your umpteenth wedding video, it is still the first and only for the couple, so make it personal. Let your video complement the theme of the wedding. If the color motif is peach and green, use these when designing the titles and background. The music should also reflect well the flow and theme of the event, whether it is formal or casual. And finally, images of the couple should come first; use your best shots, and filter them into the footage at the beginning and end sequences.