Wedding Videography Shot List: Capturing That Big Day Story
Are you a wedding videographer starting your path? Are you worried about getting every shot right and not missing any important moments? Don’t worry! We know it’s a big responsibility. Our special checklist will help you. It makes sure you don’t forget anything important and that every video clip captures the feeling of the day.
Pre-Ceremony
๐ The Getting Ready (60-90 minutes per side):
- Candid moments of bride and groom preparations separately.
- Makeup application, hairstyling, and getting dressed.
- Emotional interactions with close family and friends (toasts, first looks with bridesmaids/groomsmen).
- Details shots of attire, accessories, and wedding bands.
Ceremony (Full Coverage)
๐ Guest Arrival:
- Establishing shots of the ceremony venue (exterior and interior).
- Guests arriving and finding their seats (candid interactions).
- Pre-ceremony anticipation (groom waiting at the altar, bridesmaids taking positions).
๐ Processional:
- The bride’s father walking her down the aisle (from multiple angles).
- Close-ups of the bride and groom’s expressions as they see each other for the first time.
- Wide shots capturing the entire processional.
๐ The Ceremony Itself:
- Vows (close-up audio and visuals of the couple).
- Ring exchange (close-up shots).
- Officiant’s speech (audio with visuals).
- Lighting of the unity candle (if included).
- Pronouncement of husband and wife (close-ups and wide shots).
๐ Recessional:
- The newly married couple walking back down the aisle (from multiple angles).
- Joyful reactions from guests.
- Throwing of flower petals, rice, or bubbles (optional).
Post-Ceremony
๐ Cocktail Hour (30-45 minutes):
- Guests mingling and enjoying drinks and appetizers.
- Candid interactions, laughter, and well wishes for the couple.
- Fun photo booth moments (if available).
- Establishing shots of the reception venue (dรฉcor, layout).
Reception (Full Coverage)
๐ Introductions and Speeches (30-45 minutes):
- Introduction of the bridal party.
- Parents’ speeches (audio with visuals of the couple’s reactions).
- Maid of Honor and Best Man speeches (same).
- Any other special toasts or speeches.
๐ Dinner Service (optional – 15-20 minutes):
- Establishing shots of the reception space during dinner.
- Candid moments of guests enjoying their meals and conversations.
- Selected table toasts or special interactions.
๐ First Dance (3-5 minutes):
- Multiple angles capturing the dance from afar and close-up.
- Guests watching and enjoying the moment.
๐ Cake Cutting (3-5 minutes):
- Bride and groom feeding each other cake (close-up shots).
- Reactions from guests and playful cake smearing (optional).
๐ Party Time (45-60 minutes):
- Guests dancing and having fun on the dance floor (various angles and edits).
- Candid moments of friends and family celebrating.
- Special dances (father-daughter, mother-son, etc.) if applicable.
๐ Send-Off (10-15 minutes):
- Guests lining up to congratulate the couple.
- Exit strategy (car departure, sparkler send-off, etc.).
- Joyful farewells and well wishes to the newlyweds.
More ideas:
๐ฌ Special Moments:
- Emotional Moments: Be on the lookout for emotional moments throughout the day, such as tears of joy, laughter, and heartfelt exchanges.
- Unexpected Happenings: Capture any unexpected or spontaneous moments that add charm and personality to the wedding day.
- Details and Dรฉcor: Film close-ups of unique or meaningful details, such as table settings, centerpieces, and signage.
๐ธ Additional Shots:
- Drone Footage: If possible and permissible, capture aerial shots of the ceremony and reception venues.
- Time-Lapse: Consider creating time-lapse footage of the setup, ceremony, and reception to add variety to the video.
- Interviews: Conduct short interviews with the couple, family members, and guests to gather heartfelt messages and well wishes.
๐๏ธ Wrap-Up:
- Closing Shots: Film final shots of the couple departing the reception or sharing a quiet moment together.
- Venue Farewell: Capture shots of the venue as guests depart, signaling the end of the celebration.
Final Words
We hope our shortlist will help you ensure that no memory goes uncaptured. And if you are looking for a trusted editing partner, contact us today to discover how we can bring your vision to life and create stunning wedding films that capture the essence of your couples’ love stories.