Couples forgive a soft focus shot. They don't forgive missing vows. Audio is the one part of a wedding film you can't fix in post if you don't capture it on the day.
Use more than one source
Plan on at least three audio sources for the ceremony:
- A lavalier on the officiant or the person being married, recording to a pocket recorder or wireless transmitter
- A recorder at the podium, lectern or sound system
- Camera audio from an on-camera microphone for sync and ambience
Lavalier placement
Clip the microphone on the chest, about a hand's width below the chin, away from fabric that rustles. On a boutonniere or lapel, run the cable under the jacket. Test it while the person talks at a normal volume.
Levels and settings
- Record at a safe level with room for a sudden laugh or a raised voice
- Use 32-bit float recorders where you can, which make clipping far less of a risk
- Start recording early and let it run. Stopping and starting is how vows get missed.
Outdoors
Wind is the enemy. Use furry windscreens on every microphone and keep lavaliers under clothing where possible.
Toasts and speeches
Ask the DJ or band for a feed from their board, or place a recorder near their speaker. Many reception mics run through the house system, and a board feed is often the cleanest source.
Before you leave
Check that every recorder captured the ceremony before you pack it. Back up audio files with your footage the same night.
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