Article 05:
Beyond the Lens: Wedding Planning Secrets from a Pro Videographer
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What's happening everyone and welcome to the morlyfe entertainment Knowledge Hub, where we're all about turning ordinary gatherings into legendary celebrations. If you're ready to make your event truly unforgettable, you're in the right place. I'm Isaac, and after a decade of bringing the party from Australia to Greece, I'm here to share the strategies and stories from my experience in the entertainment world.
Today, we're diving deep into the world of weddings with a true expert: Jake, a seasoned videographer and photographer who has captured countless magical moments. Having worked alongside us for years, Jake has a unique vantage point on what really goes on behind the scenes of a wedding. We sat down with him to shed light on common misconceptions, budgeting pitfalls, and what truly makes a wedding day unforgettable.
The Unseen Value of Wedding Video: More Than Just Highlights
One of the first things Jake highlighted is a common misconception about wedding videography: many couples only think they need a short highlight reel. While these cinematic snippets are fantastic for sharing on social media, Jake emphasises the long-term value of comprehensive video coverage.
"People don't really know what to expect from a video," Jake explains. "They just think they need video, but they don't actually know why they need video." He stresses the importance of having the full ceremony and speeches recorded. "30, 40 years down the line, they're going to want to rewatch their ceremony or show their kids grandpa's speech at their wedding... those longer documentaries are more regarded." It's about preserving the full story, not just the trailer.
The "Wedding Tax": Understanding the Cost Shock
A universal truth in wedding planning, according to Jake, is the shock of the price tag. "People don't realise how much it can cost," he states. "As soon as you put the word 'wedding' in front of everything, it just like adds a zero to the price." Venues, catering, and food are often the biggest culprits.
While it's tempting to "cheap out" on some elements, Jake cautions against it, especially for core services. "You have to be hiring top vendors 'cause it's your one day, right? So you don't want to cheap out." Experienced professionals know how to work with you to maximise your day, delivering quality that justifies the investment.
Prioritising Your Visuals: Photography vs. Video
When it comes to capturing memories, Jake offers a surprising take for budget-conscious couples: prioritise photography over videography. "I do always recommend to my couples to do the photography over the video because it's what you will show everyone. It's what you print out, put on the wall."
He also warns against the "Uncle Jim" problem – relying on an inexperienced friend or family member with a camera. "Weddings are a totally different beast. If they haven't done one before... don't even bother. It's not worth risking not remembering and not having anything to show people for it." For those on a tight budget, Jake suggests setting up a simple camera or iPhone in a good spot for the ceremony and speeches, and he'll even help them get a decent angle. The goal is to capture the moment, even if it's not Hollywood-level production.
Diverse Priorities: From Flowers to DJs
Every couple has different priorities, and this significantly impacts their budget allocation. Jake has seen it all: "Some people want an amazing dress or an amazing venue, or they're really focussed on having a certain type of DJ or a certain type of band or having floristry."
He recounts brides who pour most of their budget into elaborate floral arrangements, while others opt for practical, low-maintenance plastic flowers. It all comes down to what's most important to the couple.
The Rise of Wedding Content Creators
A new and rapidly emerging trend in the wedding industry is the hiring of dedicated content creators. These individuals, often armed with just an iPhone, film specifically for TikTok and Instagram. "Some couples are hiring content creators on top of photo and video," Jake notes. "So someone specifically that films like just on their phone... so that they don't have to worry about it and none of their bridesmaids or groomsmen have to worry about it either."
While this trend offers instant, shareable social media content, Jake has mixed feelings. "Some of them I've really liked working with. Some of them have not been so great." He emphasises the importance of cooperation between all vendors. "You can be a good photographer, but you can be a bad wedding photographer 'cause if you can't cooperate with other vendors and you don't know what you're doing, it's a totally different ball game."
Timeless vs. Trendy Photography: What Will Last?
Wedding photography is constantly evolving with new trends. Jake points to the current popularity of "blurry running shots" – photos that look out of focus, capturing movement and action. While they're popular for immediate social media sharing, he offers a word of caution: "I guarantee you within 5 or 10 years, you'll put that photo away and never look at it again, even though it's what you'll post first now."
He stresses the enduring power of classic, timeless photos: the bride and groom holding hands, the first kiss, walking down the aisle, the first dance, or simple shots of getting ready. These are the images that will be cherished for decades. Jake also highlights the importance of detail shots like "flatlays" (arranging shoes, rings, perfume for an overhead photo) and intricate ring shots, which often go unrequested but are highly appreciated by couples later.
Jake is a big advocate for couples sharing their vision, often through Pinterest boards. "It's very hard to translate what's in someone's head," he says. Providing examples helps him understand their desired aesthetic and deliver the content they truly want.
The Phone Phenomenon: Living in the Moment
Beyond weddings, Jake observes a broader issue at events: the obsession with filming rather than experiencing. "The phones are a big problem," he states. "Even all the celebrants say, 'Hey, put your phone away.' But there's always at least 20 or 30 people who think, 'This doesn't apply to me.'"
He's seen celebrants adapt by dedicating a specific moment for guests to take photos, hoping they'll then put their phones away. This "proof of I was there" mentality, as Jake calls it, extends to live music events too. "It's so frustrating... you go to some like even watching a live band and everyone is just hiding behind their phone. I can't stand it." He recalls footage from Morlyfe's gigs in Greece from 2016 with no phones in the air, a stark contrast to today. While adaptation is necessary, Jake emphasises the importance of truly living in and enjoying the moment.
Conclusion: Your Unforgettable Event
Jake's insights offer a valuable perspective for anyone planning an event, especially a wedding. From understanding the true cost and value of professional services to navigating new content trends and simply remembering to live in the moment, his advice is a testament to years of experience behind the lens.
Thanks for reading! This is morlyfe entertainment, where our mission is to amplify life's biggest moments. If you have any questions or wish to make an enquiry, please feel free to contact us via the link below.
Now go out there and throw an event that'll blow everyone's socks off! Until next time, all the best, and stuff the rest!
Guest: Jake Pascoe - Jake Pascoe Media
