To work as a wedding cinematographer, you’ll typically need an understanding of the technical aspects of operating film and editing equipment, as well as artistic talent and a passion for weddings. Many colleges and universities offer cinematography training through programs that teach specific photography and videography skills to those with a general arts background. There are also video production specializations available at film schools and arts academies. In general, someone can become a wedding cinematographer by completing training, developing a portfolio, and then advertising and networking to find clients. He or she could form a partnership with others or start a business on his or her own.
Wedding cinematography usually entails a dramatic, movie-like final product, which is more than just a wedding video or documentary piece. It’s also different from videography in that it’s not always just a simple videotaping of a ceremony. For example, to achieve a more dramatic effect, a video made from still photographs could be used. A wedding photographer can easily become a wedding cinematographer based on his or her assumed skills, while others may choose to become wedding cinematographers after gaining significant film production experience, whether in documentary filmmaking or feature filmmaking.
A person aspiring to be a wedding cinematographer should start as an assistant because it is usually beneficial to gain as much wedding experience as possible. Helping with lighting and audio equipment, interviewing the couple or their guests, and editing the film after the event are all common responsibilities. In order to tell a more complete story, wedding cinematography frequently includes filming before and after the actual wedding ceremony. The footage is then heavily edited, with music and special effects frequently added.
To work as a wedding cinematographer, you’ll typically need audio and video equipment as well as editing software. Experience with editing and knowledge of lighting and sound techniques are both beneficial. Basic business or financial skills are frequently required; for example, one may need to know how to obtain a loan in order to start a business. Another crucial business decision is whether to form a partnership with another professional or go it alone.
A wedding cinematographer may work alone or with a second person. In either case, he or she must be able to communicate effectively with clients in order to determine their expectations and preferences for the final product. In order to find work as a wedding cinematographer, a person usually needs to network and advertise his or her services. To find potential clients, for example, it is common practice to compile a portfolio of completed projects and make contact with other wedding vendors.