Filming a Wedding with Only 1 Camera.
Filming a Wedding with Just One Camera? Here’s How to Pull It Off
We could write a whole article about how hard it is to shoot a wedding with only one camera—and then slide in a pitch at the end like, “That’s why FIY Wedding gets all your guests to film on their phones!” But hey, let’s not play games. We’ll just drop that right here:
With Love Reels, your guests film the day on their phones, upload footage via a QR code, and we handle the editing. Easy, affordable, and way less stressful.
So, if a couple has asked you to film their big day and you’re not a pro, feel free to suggest us. But if you’re set on going solo with a single camera—we’ve got tips to help you do it right.
Is It Even Possible to Film a Wedding with Just One Camera?
Yes—possible. Ideal? Not really. But doable, with some planning and the right gear.
If you’ve got two cameras and a tripod, great—you can set one up for static wide shots. But let’s assume you only have one camera in total. Here’s how to make it work.
Essentials for Filming Solo
1. Bring Backup Batteries (Lots of Them)
Batteries can die faster than expected—especially during long ceremonies or speeches. Always carry spares, and learn how long your camera lasts on one charge. If one bar means you’ve got only 5 minutes left, don’t risk it—swap early.
2. Use a Tripod
Stability is key. Even if you’re handheld for most of the day, a tripod is crucial for longer moments like the ceremony, speeches, and first dance.
3. Know Your Camera Inside-Out
Practice beforehand. Know what all the buttons do. Know your file limits. Know your storage. A wedding is not the time for guesswork.
On the Day: Pro Tips for One-Camera Filming
Get Close—Don’t Rely on Zoom
Don’t stand at the back of the room thinking you’ll zoom in later. That kills quality and highlights camera shake. Position yourself close enough to capture clean, detailed shots from the start—especially for vows and speeches.
Record Audio Separately (If You Can)
If you’re using your camera for both video and audio, be extra cautious about placement and background noise. Ideally, use a separate audio recorder or plug in a lapel mic if your camera allows it.
Ask for a Schedule & Key People List
Get a timeline of the day from the couple so you don’t miss crucial moments. Ask them to list the friends and family they want featured. That way, you won’t accidentally focus on random distant cousins and miss the bride’s best friend.
Use a Gimbal for Smooth Shots
A gimbal will give your footage that cinematic, floating look. It’s especially useful during dynamic shots—like entrances, exits, and dancing.
Check (and Recheck) That You’re Recording
Sounds obvious, but trust us: this is the #1 mistake people make. You think it’s recording, but it’s not. Check during long clips. Make sure your subject is still in frame. Don’t hit stop… only to realize you never hit record.
Or… Take the Easier Route with FIY Wedding
Here comes the second plug—because we really think this could save you a lot of stress:
At Love Reels, we provide 100 custom QR cards so any guest can film on their phone and upload directly to us.
You get:
Tons of angles
Natural, candid moments
An edited video from us (plus all the raw footage)
So instead of sweating over one shaky camera, you can crowdsource the magic—and let us turn it into something beautiful.
It’s affordable, simple, and you’ll probably capture moments even the best videographers would miss. Like 5 different shots of the first dance? Yes, please.
