Equipment

The Equipment We Use

For the best image quality We use the top Sony HDV HDR FX1E which delivers fantastic picture quality from its 3 16:9 CCDs. In other words, true wide screen TV pictures with the option to shoot in 1080 line High Definition (HD) ensuring that the images shot from both cameras are of the same quality look and feel.

Capturing the readings and general chatter between guests requires a different approach. For this we use directional long range microphones so that all the sound is on film. To minimise outdoor wind noise, the mics wear the best professional “softies”.

Finally on the sound front, the audio needs to be well balanced, neither too loud or too quiet and certainly at the right level. Using professional headphones for on-camera sound monitoring ensures the sound quality is just right.

There is nothing worse than an unsteady or wobbly video picture. Continual movement of the image frame will make the wedding video at best uncomfortable and tiring to watch - at worst the film can become

un-watchable. Both our cameras are supported by lightweight, stable, solid tripods ensuring that the only thing moving in the picture are the people.

Sometimes, especially in tight spaces such as filming the Bride’s preparations, it is not appropriate to use a tripod. For these occasions the use of a mono pod (a single leg support) is the best compromise. These are compact and lightweight and allow the shots to be captured with the minimum of fuss and disruption.

With the modern cameras used for wedding video filming, most of the time lighting is not an issue, so the church or other ambient light is sufficient. However there are occasions where the lighting needs to be very low, during the first dance or when interviewing guests for the video guest book. Rather than use lights on stands, which would be totally inappropriate, a camera mounted light strikes the right balance, lighting the nearby subject without upsetting the general ambiance.

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