best practices
1. Timeline and Scheduling
Prep Coverage: We require 1-1.5 hours of prep coverage to ensure that all important details are captured. Bride prep, especially for video, is essential to the Move Mountains Co. process, where we capture key storytelling moments and important audio for the narrative of your wedding film. This prep time allows our film team to build rapport with the couple, parents, and bridal party, which leads to better connection and smoother interactions throughout the day.
Groom Prep Coverage: If you would like groom prep covered, a second shooter is necessary. Without a second shooter, there is no guarantee that we will be able to capture both the bride and groom preparations.
Additional Second Shooter Requirements: A second shooter is also required for:
Larger shot lists or complex event coverage
Catholic mass ceremonies
Events with multiple locations that require shooters in different areas to capture details simultaneously
Any situations that demand a higher level of coverage and attention to detail
Build Buffer Times: Ensure there’s enough buffer time between key events (e.g., getting ready, ceremony, reception) to account for unexpected delays.
First Look: If a "first look" session is part of the plan, we recommend scheduling at least 30 minutes for this moment to allow for an intimate, unrushed experience.
Family Photos: Plan for at least 30-45 minutes for family portraits. Provide a list of all family groupings ahead of time to keep things running smoothly.
Golden Hour: The best time for outdoor portraits is typically during "golden hour," the hour before sunset. We recommend allocating 20-30 minutes during this time for optimal lighting.
2. Vendor Coordination
Key Vendor Contact: Provide the contact information for all key vendors (e.g., coordinator, DJ, florist) to streamline communication and ensure coordination on timing throughout the day.
Sharing the Timeline: Ensure your vendors have a copy of the finalized timeline, so they are all on the same page. Move Mountains Co. is not responsible for delays caused by other vendors who are not following the timeline.
3. Ceremony Coverage
Unobstructed View: Work with your officiant and venue to ensure that photographers and videographers have a clear view of the ceremony without blocking guests’ views.
No Flash Photography: If your ceremony venue restricts flash photography, please inform us in advance so we can adjust accordingly.
4. Reception Considerations
Dance Floor Lighting: Dim lighting can make it difficult to capture clear reception photos. We recommend adding some uplighting or using string lights to improve visibility on the dance floor.
Toasts and Speeches: Ensure that the toasts are scheduled when the lighting is sufficient. Direct the speakers to stand in a well-lit area if possible.
5. Personalization & Creativity
Special Requests: Communicate any special photo or video requests (e.g., sparkler exits, drone footage, or specific shots you want) to us in advance. Any requests made on the day of the event may not be guaranteed.
Styling Details: Consider providing personal items for detail shots (e.g., invitations, rings, shoes, heirlooms) and plan for at least 20-30 minutes of styling shots before the ceremony.
6. Client Responsibility
Following Recommendations: Move Mountains Co. is committed to capturing your event to the highest standard. However, declining our recommendations may affect the quality of the final product, and Move Mountains Co. will not be held responsible for any deviations from the agreed-upon best practices.