Outdoor Ceremony
Outdoor ceremonies can be beautiful, but watch out for harsh shadows that can be cast on your faces as these shadows can be unflattering in your wedding video. These shadows can be created by direct sunlight or nearby structures, such as gazebos or trees, etc. A fun alternative to being completely in the sun is having material draped above you and on either side of the altar. Or you can rent a tent to protect you and your guests from the sun. Check the lighting at your location at the same time of day as your ceremony. You will be able to see if any direct sunlight creates shadows on your faces or if the sun is in a safe position blocked by structures. The sun may not have the same effect at 5PM as it does at 3PM. Also keep in mind the time of year. The sun will be in different locations during different seasons. The sun will be in a different location at 3PM during the fall as compared to 3PM during the summer. So check your sun position during the same season or close to your wedding date.
Indoor Ceremony
For ceremonies that are indoors, it is always a good idea to check the lighting at the altar. Some places of worship or venues have lighting that can be adjusted and moved providing you with options. We recommend that the bride and groom stand in the exact position they will be in when they are saying their vows in order to assess any lighting issues. It may just be a matter of the two of you taking a couple of steps to get the right lighting on your faces and preventing any under-eye shadows from the lighting above. If your ceremony location is dimly lit, you may expect your videographer to have to use some on-camera lighting.
Outdoor Reception
When having an outdoor reception, always keep in mind the comfort of your guests. On a hot summer day, shade and cool refreshments are important. Read our “Weather Issues and Solutions” for more wedding day weather advice. If there is no natural shade available for your outdoor reception, you may want to consider renting a large tent or having your reception later in the evening when the sun is setting and it begins cooling off. This will help prevent any unflattering shadows on your faces. For your wedding reception’s main events, see if your venue has the capability to drape material above the dance floor to provide some shade (see photo).
Indoor Reception
Consider hiring a lighting designer or a company that specializes in reception rentals and design. Westcoast Event Productions is a good resource for ideas. Good lighting can set the mood of your reception and add to the overall feel of the evening. If you have a tent or light colored ceiling, renting a white dance floor will make everyone look great because of the reflected light. If your reception is indoors and is dimly lit, expect your videographer to use some on-camera lighting.
