In this video, I go deep on the entire process of shooting a wedding video solo. We talk about camera gear, strategy, how to work with other creatives, camera placement, strategy, and workflow.
I cover:
Gear and what I use
Cameras
Lenses
Lights
Audio
Gimbal
Camera Settings - 1080p 60 fps
Strategy, tripod placements, making the most of what you have
Big themes for shooting solo:
Pre plan as much as possible
Coordinate with photographer and shoot as a team
Pre Shoot
Contact information for bride and 1 other person
Locations and meeting location in the morning
Pre-Charge, format cards, and load up the night before
Pro Tip: Make your lock screen the Schedule as phone background
Schedule:
Leave early and leave 30 minutes of buffer time
Find the bride right away and ensure things are on schedule
Meet photographer and coordinate with them
Details, establishing venue shots in the morning right away
Get letters or vows read as soon as they are dressed
Make sure to eat during family portraits or when the wedding party eats
Pre Ceremony, establish tripod camera angles
I like locked off on groom for reaction when bride comes down aisle
If you are shooting in a church with a loft, use that for a clear angle from above
I run with photographer and stay low in front row for bride + family + groom reactions
Post Ceremony, Break down all tripods and gear, load up quickly for next location
Never ride with wedding party in a bus unless you are coming back to the same location as your car
Reception,
Switch settings to 4K, 24 fps, high ISO for better low light quality
Set up battery charging station in a power outlet and stage tripods/light stands in same area
Eat when the head table eats
Set up lights for speeches right away
Coordinate with the DJ to plug recorder in to their system
After the shoot:
Offload and copy all footage that night to have two copies of everything
Solo Tips:
Shadow an experienced shooter for a few weddings to get the hang of it
Be clear on the shots that you need to make the video’s story come to life
Be confident in directing the couple during bridals
Work well with the photographer
Take care of your health by getting water and eating regularly
Bring extra of everything in case you need it
Deep breaths and make it all about the couple!
Want my wedding videography contract template? Download it here: https://sellfy.com/ryansnaadt/p/wedding-videography-contract-template/