Video help.

[eddiesimages]

I just posted this question in the beginners forum, but maybe I should have posted it here. A friend just asked me to videotape his son's wedding. I haven't used a video camera much and have never videotaped a wedding. ANY suggestions or tips you can give me would be much appreciated.

 

[woodsac]

Use a tripod.
Work with the photographer!!! Make sure you guys aren't "bumping heads".
Be easy with the zoom.
Focus on the bride / groom. Pan a couple wide shots of the guests, but focus most of your attention on the wedding party.

Did I mention work with the photographer
Try and work it out before the wedding. That way you know where each other will be and aren't scrambling last second.

 

[eddiesimages]

Using the tripod I won't be able to move around, so where should I set up? I presume somewhere up front so I can get the bride coming down the isle, but then I will miss the wedding party with their backs turned to me, is that acceptable?

 

[woodsac]

Part of this will depend on the house rules. Some venues do not allow "vendors" (I hate that title) to move around. Meaning photogs and videogs (<Just made that word up) have to remain stationary.

I think it is acceptable to start near the alter, possible hand holding, then move directly to the rear after the bride enters. I definitely see more video shot from the rear of the church. I would suggest the rear to the right side of the doorway. That way, you have a better view of the brides facial expressions.

But...I don't do video So maybe someone who does will chime in here too.