Must-Have Wedding Video Shots and How To Plan For Them

Your wedding day will be filled with unforgettable moments – but when the music fades and the day ends, what will you have left to relive it? While photographs capture beautiful stills, a wedding video brings the entire day to life in motion. From walking down the aisle to wild dance floor celebrations, wedding videography lets you revisit those emotions and share them for generations.

If you’re wondering how to plan a wedding video or what shots you absolutely can’t miss, this blog is for you.

At Big Day Productions, we know what couples need, so we’re breaking down the must-have moments every couple should include in their wedding film, plus tips for working with your UK wedding videographer to make the process seamless and stress-free.

Let’s dive in!

wedding video

Why a Wedding Video Matters?

Wedding videography is more than just recording events – it’s about telling your love story in real time. Namely, unlike still images, video captures movement, sound, laughter, emotion, and the energy of the day.

Think about it! Hearing your vows again, seeing your parents tear up, watching your friends go wild on the dance floor, or reliving that epic first kiss.

All of this is only possible through the lens of a talented wedding videographer.

That’s why planning for it is just as important as planning the ceremony itself.

How To Prepare For Wedding Videography

Before you start visualising your dream wedding film, it’s essential to sit down and make a videography shot list. This helps ensure no important moment is missed and allows your videographer to be in the right place at the right time.

First, you will need to start by asking yourselves some questions. That way, you will know what you want from your wedding video.

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Videographer:

What parts of the day are most meaningful to us?
Do we want a documentary, cinematic, or highlight-reel style video?
Are there any surprises or traditions we want captured?

Once you know what you want, it’s time to communicate that with your UK wedding videographer. They’ll help bring your vision to life – and likely suggest additional ideas based on their experience.

Wedding Video Checklist: Essential Shots to Capture

Here’s a comprehensive list of must-have moments for your wedding video. These form the emotional core of your love story.

Venue & Decor Details

You searched long and hard for the perfect venue – make sure it shines in your film.

Wide shots of the empty venue, indoors and outdoors
Close-ups of decor: flowers, tablescapes, signage, cake, lighting
Aerial drone footage (if available) for a cinematic touch

Tip: These clips make a perfect video intro and set the tone of the entire film.

Getting Ready Moments

The anticipation, the laughter, the quiet nervousness – these candid moments are pure magic.

Hair and makeup sessions
Buttoning suits, zipping dresses
Gift or letter exchanges
Parent or friend reactions

There’s no need to stage anything. Just be present, and let your videographer document the emotion organically.

Walking Down The Aisle

This is one of the most iconic moments in any wedding video.

The moment the doors open
The walk itself, from multiple angles
Your partner’s reaction when waiting at the altar
Guests standing, smiling, and tearing up

Tip: Don’t worry about the camera – focus on your partner, your emotions will speak louder than any pose.

Vows & First Kiss

The vows and first kiss are emotional high points and deserve crystal-clear audio and beautiful visuals.

Use a lapel mic or ambient recorder to capture vows clearly
Record both partners’ faces while speaking and reacting
Capture the first kiss from multiple angles (ask your videographer to avoid blocking views)

Tip: Add subtitles during the vows for a storytelling touch. That way, your video will get more meaningful features.

First Dance

The first dance is your first moment as a married couple to be surrounded by love and music.

Wide and close-up shots from various angles
Emotional audience reactions
Optional slow motion to highlight dips, spins, and smiles

Ask your videographer to stay mobile and artistic – this moment deserves all the attention.

Reception Speeches

Reception toasts bring the laughter, the tears, and the occasional roast. You’ll want to remember every word.

Toasts from parents, siblings, best friends, and more
Candid couple reactions
Audience clapping, laughing, or crying

Make sure you let your speakers know they’ll be filmed, and encourage them to speak from the heart. Being aware of the camera will ensure they prepare their speeches properly.

Dance Floor Candid Moments

This is where the fun truly begins. Your wedding video should reflect the joy of your celebration.

Candid crowd dancing
Guest interactions, hugs, toasts
Funny or unexpected moments
Kids, pets, or party games

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can we provide a list of specific shots we want, or do we need to leave it entirely to the videographer?

Yes, you can definitely provide a list of specific shots. Communication is key, so sharing your preferences will help the videographer capture the moments that are most important to you.

2. What if we want to include music in our wedding video?

Talk to your videographer about licensing music for your video. They often have access to licensed tracks or can advise you on what you can use to avoid copyright issues.

3. Should we hire a second shooter for our wedding video?

Hiring a second shooter can provide a broader perspective and ensure that multiple angles of key moments are captured, especially during a large wedding with lots of activities happening simultaneously.

Telling Your Love Story Through Film

A thoughtfully planned wedding video captures more than just pretty visuals. Namely, it preserves the atmosphere, the joy, and the emotions of your once-in-a-lifetime celebration.

From the walk down the aisle to spontaneous dance floor moments, each clip adds a chapter to your love story. And with the right UK wedding videographer by your side, it will be told beautifully.

Looking for a Wedding Videographer in the UK?

At Big Day Productions, we specialise in emotive, cinematic wedding videography. Whether you want a short highlight film or a full-length wedding story, we bring professional storytelling, high-quality production, and soul to every shot.