How to Film Wedding Speeches (So You Can Actually Hear Them)
To film wedding speeches well, set the camera on a steady surface or tripod close to the speaker, film in landscape, start recording before the speech begins and don't stop until it ends. Clear sound matters more than a perfect picture, so get as close as you can or use a clip-on microphone.
The speeches are the part of the day couples rewatch most, and the part that's easiest to film badly. Here's how to make sure you can hear every word and see every reaction.
Before the speeches start
- Charge up. Put a fresh battery in before the meal. Speeches always run longer than planned.
- Pick your spot. The best place is close to the top table and a little to one side, so you can see the speaker and the couple.
- Steady the camera. A tripod or a stack of books on the table beats holding it for 20 minutes.
- Ask about a microphone. If the venue has a PA system, the speaker will be louder in the room. A clip-on wireless mic gives you the clearest sound of all.
While you're filming
- Start before they stand up and don't stop between speeches. Long clips are fine for speeches.
- Stay in landscape. It fits a TV and the final film.
- Zoom gently, if at all. A camcorder's optical zoom is great for this, but move slowly.
- Don't talk. The microphone is closer to you than to the speaker.
Film the reactions too
The best speech footage often isn't the speaker at all. If there's a second camcorder, have someone film the couple's faces, the parents and the guests laughing. Editors love cutting between the joke and the reaction.
Common mistakes
- Filming from the back of the room, where you mostly hear chatter and cutlery
- Stopping and starting so the best line gets missed
- Pointing the camera at a bright window behind the speaker
With a Wedding Crashers kit, the Sony Handycam's zoom and built-in microphone do a lot of the work. You can also add a tall tripod or a wireless mini mic to any package. See the add-ons.
Frequently asked questions
Can a camcorder pick up speeches from the back of the room?
The zoom can get the picture, but sound is much better close up. Get as near as you can or use a clip-on mic.
Should speeches be filmed in one long clip?
Yes. Unlike the rest of the day, keep recording through all the speeches so nothing is missed.
