Wedding video is a fun way for couples to relive their special day, and it can also serve as an advertisement for the videographer that helped capture it. When starting out in this business, it's important to know what the bride and groom want and expect from you before the big day. The bride and groom should be able to express their wishes clearly, and you should be ready to provide them with the best results possible.

One of the biggest mistakes that amateur videographers make is attempting to copy other wedding videos they see on YouTube or Vimeo. While it can be a great source of inspiration, it's important to develop your own style and create a unique voice in your work. This will help your clients recognize you as an individual and ensure that their wedding film isn't a cookie-cutter version of someone else's.

To start with, try using different styles of shooting and editing to see what works for you. You may find that you prefer more of a documentary approach with an emphasis on emotion and pivotal moments, or you might be more interested in going 'cinematic' with more of a wow-factor. It's important to decide what your strengths are and what type of work you enjoy, because these will become the foundations of your career.

When working on a wedding, it's a good idea to use a tripod to ensure that your shots are steady and clear. You'll also need extra memory cards and backup batteries to avoid losing any footage. Depending on the size of the ceremony, you might need to consider renting or purchasing a microphone to capture clear audio.

It's also a good idea to practice your camera skills at home before the big day. This will give you a better feel for how your equipment works and how to position yourself for the most flattering shots. Then, on the wedding day, you can focus on capturing the moment rather than worrying about whether your camera is positioned just right.

Another helpful tip is to get a wide shot of the bride as she's getting ready. If possible, try to get a medium and close-up shot as well. Once the wedding march begins, follow the bride down the aisle and be sure to get a wide, then medium, then close-up of her as she greets the officiant and walks towards the altar. This will give you plenty of great footage to choose from when editing later on.