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Don’t Do THIS to Your Wedding Party or Coordinator!

April 24, 2012 By Leave a Comment

I get asked all the time about how to coordinate the cameras and filming for a WeddingMix event. Scratch that. That’s NOT the question I get asked. That’s the question that SHOULD be asked. People ask me if asking their friends to film their wedding video is putting them to work. Easy answer. No. Most of your friends have their cameras and iPhones out anyway.

Image by Rose Schaller Photo

BUT here’s what you DON’T want to do

Your box of cameras arrives from Storymix a few days before the wedding. The night before the wedding, you surprise your wedding party with the fact that they need to “get video of your wedding”. Or, the morning of the wedding, you “instruct” your wedding coordinator that you ordered this great wedding video service and she needs to “make sure the guests get video”.

That is what’s called being a bit of a bridezilla. It’s not fair to spring this on them. Getting candid video of your wedding is fun, but does require literally just a few minutes of planning.

WeddingMix is NOT the same as disposable cameras

Leaving a disposable camera on the table is leaving it to chance that someone will pick it up and take photos. And hopefully that someone will not be (a) 10 years old or (b) so drunk they can’t stand up.

As I said, getting wedding video clips needs a few minutes of planning. Literally… a few minutes.

Just a Minute of Planning

We ship the cameras with big postcards full of  tips on getting good video, who to ask to hold the cameras, questions to ask wedding guests…  You want to give your friends a minute to look these over and get excited about all the cool moments they can get on video. You also want to make sure they know which moments you’d like to get on video.

We make this pretty easy with the iPhone app – there’s a shot list built right in. And, I got a great tip from one of our fabulous bride guest bloggers – Kelsey. Her mom bought a 5 camera package as a gift for her. She asked a few different people a few days ahead of time to capture different aspects of the wedding. Her mom wrote little note cards with what they were hoping to capture and tied them to the individual cameras.

While you don’t have to tie note cards to cameras, simply asking a few trustworthy friends and family members (or at least asking your wedding coordinator to do so) a few days ahead of time, will save you having to think about it on your wedding day. And it will certainly let them have fun planning the moments they will capture… like the flash mob dance, or the pre-wedding golf trip, or the post-wedding after party craziness, or the “impromptu” re-enactment of the cop pulling you over during the road trip from spring break, or the… you get the picture. So what cool moments do you hope your friends will capture?

 

See how we can help you capture and enjoy your big day for a lifetime. Learn more about DIY affordable wedding video at our website or feel free to give us a call at 800-831-1649.

Ariane

Filed Under: Shooting Video, Tutorial Tuesdays Tagged With: , ,

DIY Wedding Video Tip | Don’t Leave Out the Best Part – Give Me Some Handles!

May 12, 2011 By Leave a Comment
You know we love DIY Wedding Video.  It’s the main feature of our company.  We also know that not everyone who picks up a video camera understands how to get the best possible footage.  So we are always looking to provide tips and tricks so you end up with the best possible wedding video.  Today we’re going to talk about adding handles to the video scenes that are shot.

Handles?  What the heck are you talking about?

Handles are that little bit of video at the beginning and end of each scene that our software program uses to create transitions.  If you don’t include  a second or two before or after the main part you want to show, you’ll end up with an abrupt change or cut out part of the scene – yikes!  Our Apple Pro Certified editors can work magic with your DIY video, but we can’t defy the laws of physics (yet!).
So what can you do?

• First, tell your video shooters to look at this post and others on this blog for quick and easy tips.
• Two, explain what a handle is and ask them to hit the start/stop button with enough time before and after what they are trying to record.
• Three, if you’re really ambitious, have them look at this post for a detailed explanation of handles with videos that shows what a difference they make.
• Four, relax, even if all the videos your guests take aren’t perfect, that is part of the charm with DIY wedding video.  It focuses on the personal, intimate, and spontaneous moments of your big day and not everything will be according to script.
Here are a couple of easy tips to use that will automatically cause your video scenes to include handles:
• If you’re asking a question of someone, tell them to smile before and after they speak.
• Pan into and out of the focal point (but don’t overdo it!).
• Start recording before important moments are about to happen – the vows, first dance, toasts, etc.

Happy shooting!
Filed Under: DIY, Shooting Video, Tutorial Tuesdays, Wedding Video Tagged With: , , ,

Why Did My Wedding Video Put Everyone to Sleep?

March 16, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Since around 70% of weddings don’t use a pro videographer (see our story My Biggest Regret), we’ve spend a lot of time speaking with couples about why they haven’t planned on having a wedding video.  Most of the answers revolve around cost or budget.  But when we probe a little bit more, the real answers start to come out.  We’ve also confirmed our findings with a lot of forum postings with topics similar to ‘Should I Get a Video?‘.

The biggest reason people end up not getting a video (in our opinion) is that they don’t think they’ll ever watch it more than once (if at all).  So why pay for it.  Think about video vs. photos.  Couples generally spend 2-3 times more on professional photography than videography (if they are getting both).  Why?  Well, most people know that there is a value associated with pictures.  They’ll go on the wall, in picture frame, or in an album.  Video sits on a shelf as a DVD.  But is that whole story?  Not really, people still rent and buy DVDs.  They do so because they actually want to see the story!

So why is it that so many couples can’t see the value in capturing the sights, sounds, and emotions that only a wedding video can produce?  Here are a few reasons we’ve deduced from our conversations:

- My parent’s video was so long and boring.
- I watched my friends video and it put me to sleep.  I was there and already saw everything.
- The video just shows the same things as the photos.
- My fiancee doesn’t think we should bother since he’ll never watch it.

So how can you have a great wedding video that you (and your husband) will want to watch every anniversary?  Even if you don’t use our My Flip Wedding or Custom DIY Wedding Video services, you should keep these tips in mind when hiring a pro or while you’re editing footage one of your guests shoot:

- Keep it short.  15-20 minutes is more than enough to highlight the important moments.
- Make a 1-3 minute ‘teaser’ version to share with everyone on Facebook or online galleries
- Include backgrounds, text fonts, and transitions that match the rest of your wedding design
- Use a lot of interesting, intimate scenes, not just standard shots of the bride and groom


Using these tips and following Wedding Memories with Storymix will help you enjoy and re-live the best moments from your big day for a lifetime.

Filed Under: Real Wedding Videos, Tutorial Tuesdays Tagged With: ,

How to Avoid Boring Comments from Your Guests

March 10, 2011 By 2 Comments

To avoid hours of boring ‘We love you, have a great marriage’ comments from your guests try this tip. Write out 5-10 questions you’d like to hear the answers to on index cards. Give them to the people who will be shooting video and they will have a good way to approach the guests for responses. Here’s a few questions to get you started.

When was the first time you met the bride or groom?

What’s one thing you cherish about your friendship?

What do you see the bride and groom doing ten years from now?

 

Have fun with the questions but keep them simple so you don’t stump the guests.

Filed Under: Shooting Video, Tutorial Tuesdays, Wedding Video Tagged With: ,

Top Ten Questions about Flip Weddings (part 2)

March 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment

In a previous post we listed 5 of the most frequently asked questions that we’ve heard from wedding couples regarding My Flip Wedding.  Here’s the rest of the questions:

5. What happens if one of the cameras breaks?

If a camera breaks we won’t be able to include that footage in your final video.  If you only had a 1 camera package you will be not provided a video.  So, be sure to hand the cameras to people who will be responsible.

4. Do I get the raw footage?

Yes, in addition to your Hollywood quality edited video, we supply you with all of the videos shot on the cameras.

3. What will my video look like?

We offer 10 different wedding themes that our editors use while crafting your video.  The themes include coordinated fonts, graphics, transitions, and music.  You can also choose our Mix n Match or Custom options to create your own unique theme.  Take a look at our sample videos to get an understanding of how your video will look.

2. How many cameras are included?

We offer 1, 3, and 5 camera packages

1. How much does it cost?

My Flip Wedding starts at $99.99.  See our website for more pricing details on packages and options.

Filed Under: Real Wedding Videos, Tutorial Tuesdays, Wedding Video Tagged With: , ,

Top Ten Questions about Flip Weddings (part 1)

March 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment

It is always great to spend a few minutes on the phone or in person at a bridal show getting to know about the issues and concerns wedding couples face with capturing their big day on video. We’ve talked with a lot of brides and grooms while we were developing My Flip Wedding and have now started to promote our product.

So I thought it might be useful to share the top 10 questions (and our answers) that we’ve heard from hundreds of conversations.

10. Can I include photos in my video?

Not with My Flip Wedding.  Our Custom DIY Wedding Video includes an option for adding photos to your project.

9. How much extra is editing?

It’s free!  A Hollywood quality edited video is included with every My Flip Wedding package.

8. How easy is it to use the Flip camera?

Super easy.  Just hit the red button and take video.

7. Can I use a camera on my honeymoon?

Yes.  Just tell us how many weeks you want to keep one of the cameras and the ordering system will add it to your project.

6. How long will my video be?

It depends on you.  We have two options. You can use our online Storyboard and pick the scenes you want us to include, so you determine the length.  Or you can have us do it all and  we’ll create a 15-20 minute highlight video.

Look for  questions 5 through 1 on a future post.

Filed Under: Custom Video Editing, Real Wedding Videos, Tutorial Tuesdays, Wedding Video Tagged With: , ,

Do You Make These Mistakes Taking Video?

February 25, 2011 By Leave a Comment

If you have been asked to shoot some video at a friends wedding, here are some tips to think about before you shoot.

- Leave the lens cap on while recording

We have a few video clips with audio saying, “what the heck is wrong with this camera? I can’t see a thing.” This isn’t such a problem with cameras like the Flip and Zi8. But for those of you with good old-fashioned lens caps, watch out for this one.

- Put the camcorder down thinking it’s shut off

We’ve all been guilty of this one. If you’re lucky, you realize it a minute later, but you might not realize it until you watch the movie clip. The worst part is if there are scenes you actually want to see at the beginning and end of the clip. The analog to this one is turning off the camera when you think you’re turning it on. Either way, you have too much bad footage or missed a key scene completely.

- Zoom in / out too fast

This one is just plain nauseating. If you have a Flip you don’t have to worry about it (no zoom). Slow and steady is the way to go.

- Move the camera from subject to subject too quickly (makes for nice motion blur!)

Have you ever noticed how they do this on TV? They generally keep both subjects on the screen, but selectively focus from one to the other. This isn’t really possible with a consumer camcorder, so your best bet, short of cutting a multi-camera scene, is to keep both subjects on the screen, slowly move from person to person, or pause the camera while you move.

- Pan the scene in super slow mode

It’s the opposite of the one above. In trying to capture that entire family reunion shot of 87 family members, you spend 17 minutes panning from person to person. BORING. That’s when photos do a much better job.

- Constantly talk while recording so you can’t hear any of your subjects

Watch out for this mistake while at your kids’ events. Yelling at the referee into the microphone tends to drown out the cheers of the crowd.

- Never let anyone else use the camcorder so you are never in any scenes

Ever look at your scenes from the past year and realize that the camera man is missing? Don’t be a camera hog. Share your techno-toy so that you can appear in your movies.

- Take video of absolutely everything

This isn’t a bad idea if you have tons of time to edit your movies and have tons of hard drive space. But, if you want to easily watch your movies, it’s hard to sift through hours of boring footage.

These mistakes can easily be corrected when you edit your video scenes. But, if you don’t edit your video, these mistakes can make your movie scenes almost unwatchable. Fortunately there are companies like Storymix Media that can do a great job of taking bad video footage and creating enjoyable movies of your memories.

But remember, there is only so much powerful equipment, sophisticated software, and creative editors can do. Taking just a little bit of time to think about what you are trying to capture – people, landscapes, events, etc. – will go a long ways towards getting better footage.

 

See how we can help you capture and enjoy your big day for a lifetime. Learn more about DIY affordable wedding video at our website or feel free to give us a call at 800-831-1649.

Ariane

Filed Under: Real Wedding Videos, Tutorial Tuesdays, Wedding Video Tagged With: ,

Stop Before You Shoot! Tips for Capturing Good Video Footage of Your Wedding

February 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment

We have explored the reasons for capturing video of your wedding. Hopefully you’ve heeded our advice. If you have opted for getting the video shot by a non-professional we have advice for making sure your cameraperson gets the scenes you want and the best results possible.

The key to getting the important shots and scenes for your movie is planning beforehand. If you have a game plan you are much more likely to be ready when those great moments present themselves. Check out our blog www.My-Photo-Video.com for detailed tips and explanations for producing good quality video footage.

General
1. Know thy equipment. Be sure to understand the functionality and features on the camera. A Flip will have very different capabilities than a $1000 camcorder.

2. What extras will you need? Extra batteries, tapes and flash memory cards aren’t sold at the bar. Prepare the night before.

3. Key shots list. Make a list of the important moments you want to capture. Here are some shots you’ll want:

  • Walking down the aisle
  • Vows
  • First kiss
  • Leaving church or venue
  • Entrance into reception
  • Best man’s toast
  • First dance, father-daughter, mother-son dances
  • Bouquet toss
  • Guests – don’t focus just on the couple. Go easy on the guests toasts
  • More than ceremony and reception – your wedding experience also includes the rehearsal, bridal shower, honeymoon, etc. Be sure to include those moments too (if possible)

4. Don’t forget the b-roll. Take shots of buildings, scenery, banners, signs, invitation, food, shoes, etc.

Shooting Video

  • Two cameras are better than one. Multiple angles and more coverage will result in a better final edited movie.
  • Nice and easy. Be conscious of how quickly or slowly you pan and zoom. A nice smooth movement will avoid your viewers getting seasick from the jerky to and fro common in home movies.
  • Have tripod, will travel. Using a tripod will make it much easier to get great video shots. If you know you’ll be shooting from one spot for a while, your legs and arms will thank you. There are also great table top tripods available on the market that are easy to travel with and do a fine job keeping your footage still and smooth.
  • Try to film near a stereo speaker at the ceremony. Even if you can’t get good video (only applies with multiple cameras) the audio can be added with the appropriate footage.
  • Get a lot of closeups of the couple and guests.

What if you did decide to hire a pro, but don’t know where to start or what questions to ask? Next time we’ll provide you the info you need to know.

As part of these great tips, Storymix Media is going to be offering their Custom Wedding Video Wedding Mix package to one lucky reader. This $200 value product is great for turning your raw video into a great 20-30 minute highlight movie that will be a treasured keepsake.

Filed Under: Tutorial Tuesdays, Wedding Video Tagged With: , ,

Modern Save the Date | Online, Eco-Friendly and Personal

February 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment

Post image for Modern Save the Date | Online, Eco-Friendly and Personal

We recently completed a Video STD for Dubuque custom wedding invitation designer Stephonie Ogden of SAO Dzynz. For those of you new to that term, STD is not a disease, it’s for Save the Date.

Stephonie was looking for a fun, unique, and personal way to let her friends and family know when her wedding would be held. She didn’t want to be limited to one photo, or even just photos. And so, she convinced her fiancé to film a video clip to include in a Deluxe Video Save the Date from Storymix Media.

Another reason Stephonie wanted to go with an online save the date was the environmental impact and expense of mailing postcards. The link to the private gallery was simply emailed to all of her family and friends. No need to register – and no html email to get stuck in her friends’ spam boxes.

Last week I interviewed Stephonie to gather any tips she had for filming the best possible video clip to include in your e-Save the Date. As a photographer as well as graphic designer and bride, she was the perfect person to put together tips on capturing the video.

“We were going to say our names in the video clip, but then decided if we are inviting you to our wedding, you know who we are :) Guests will most likely recognize us, hopefully, from the video alone if they don’t know our names, plus the video you put together has our names on a slide so it would be redundant. I think the most important things are to tell your guests when, where, plus a little flare (personality). If you want to mention that a formal invitation will follow, that wouldn’t be bad either :)

Tips on capturing best video:

- Time of day is important. Noon light is the worst lighting of the day, its unflattering coming from above. Make sure the sun isn’t behind you, otherwise you will be a silhouette and no one will be able to see you. Also, be careful about the sun being directly in your face to avoid squinting and funny expressions ;-)

- Beware of your surroundings: if people are in the background and what are they doing, noisy streets/construction/people, bad shadows, location, distractions, etc.

- Review your video before you quit shooting, make sure you look at everything and like everything

- Simple video editing software can help by starting and ending your clip exactly where you want (this helps when you don’t have someone to film for you and you have your camera on a tripod – you have the ability to cut out walking from the camera to your spot and then back to the camera when you are done to stop the recording). My Mac came with one…

[editor's note: Storymix Media will do this for you]

Location was important to us, we wanted it to represent us and our special day, so we decided filming on our boat was perfect. We made sure the boat faced the right direction with the sun and backdrop of the city, waiting for boats to drive by because of noise and the waves (really didn’t want to make our guests sick by viewing a video that was filmed on a rocking boat!).

Just remember, you guys are in love and its fun :) As soon as we made it through a full run through, we were happy with the results. It doesn’t have to be long, short and sweet works just fine :) ”

 

 

See how we can help you capture and enjoy your big day for a lifetime. Learn more about DIY affordable wedding video at our website or feel free to give us a call at 800-831-1649.

Ariane

Filed Under: Tutorial Tuesdays, Video Save the Date Tagged With: , , ,

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