About Filming Weddings

The Prep . . .

Each wedding is unique, demanding a fresh and innovative approach. Our process begins with interviewing the bride and groom, observing how they reveal themselves as individuals and relate as a couple. They answer questions about their families, professions, passions and traditions, as well as their vision of their wedding. After discussing details and exploring possibilities, we design the coverage of their day, customized exactly to their liking. A month before the wedding, the couple provides a timeline of events to ensure we are in the right place at the right time, not missing out on a thing. When possible, I attend the rehearsal to scope out the venue and plan camera placement and angles for the ceremony.

The Shoot . . .

We shoot with multiple high-end digital cameras, allowing each video artist to film simultaneously from different perspectives. This is significant. Unlike Hollywood, there are no re-takes. If an over-zealous photographer stands in front of one of our cameras to get his money shot of the bride and groom exchanging rings, that pivotal moment will not be lost on film forever. Another camera will pick it up. Our cameras offer amazing low light capacity, negating the need for bright lights. We use professional broadcast quality wireless microphones. Usually, the groom wears one for the ceremony to assure audio clarity.

We do not impose or contrive the action; our mission is to capture authentic moments as they occur. Our manner is relaxed and unobtrusive. We work in tandem on a team with the officiant, coordinator, photographer and DJ/band to make the day all it can be and do not film within a predetermined number of hours. At most weddings, delays are inevitable. On one occasion, only two of six servers from a catering company showed at a Calistoga winery wedding. Dinner lasted three hours, instead of one. Our last scheduled event was the bouquet and garter toss. We stayed late until it was completed, without having to negotiate overtime with the newly married couple at their reception party.

The Edit . . .

In post-production, the footage captured is distilled to its essence on the Final Cut Pro editing program. Blending documentary features with soaring cinematography, all the emotional, dramatic, suspenseful and comedic moments come to life. In bridal spotlight and highlights movie sequences, added music is synchronized with visuals, amplifying the mood. Artistic input, technical expertise and endless hours go into creating a flowing piece of film art that tells the story of a wedding day.