Everyone Is Videogenic

Dear Brides (and Grooms if you're reading),

Have you ever dreamed of being an actress (or actor for you guys)? I think I have at one point or another, but standing in front of the camera seems to freeze any natural expression I may have. More practice in front of the camera taught me that the key to looking your best on film is:

1. Feeling awesome
2. Having a fabulous videographer

Feeling Awesome. Most reasons to be in front of the camera stem from being awesome. And you are. It's your wedding day, it's to commemorate something at which you're very, very good (and being in love counts). This is your day and there is so much to enjoy. It's the fruit of your months of planning and endless dreaming and discussion. You have reason to be confident. Plus, I guarantee you that after a few minutes of being filmed, you'll resume feeling stunning and looking natural. You may even show off for the camera a little - a pretty little wave here or the batting of the eyes there. Go ahead and try it now. I'm not looking.

Having a fabulous videographer. I couldn't resist making this plug, but even if I'm not your videographer, I hope you experience this with whomever you do have create your wedding story for you. A fine videographer will help you feel comfortable in front of the camera and give you simple direction when needed until you reach that natural comfort level, and eventually, you'll forget the camera is even there. I'll have you primp a little, let his guys give him a hard time about this being his last day of freedom, let you and your groom whisper sweet nothings in each other's ears. You can even suggest things. I love when my couples get involved! I also sense when it's best to be invisible. Like that moment your dad comes to visit you where you're getting ready and then once you and your groom run out of the ceremony to relish those first few moments of "I can't believe we just got married!". I can be very, very sneaky. What it comes down to is this: do what comes naturally and a good videographer will get the flattering shots without you even knowing it.

So to answer a recent question from a client, there are no "non-photogenic" people. It's your day to shine and your videographer's job to make you look like your beautiful, shining self. I'm not sure how others have reached that level of comfort with their photographer or videographer, but when it's my turn in front of the camera, I imagine I'm all that (and then some) and settle for denial. Camera? What camera?

Sincerely,
Leigh