Video Settings Guide
Essential video settings for wedding filmmakers. Understanding frame rates, shutter angles, and exposure fundamentals for cinematic footage.
The 180-Degree Shutter Rule
For natural-looking motion blur, your shutter speed should be double your frame rate.
Formula: Shutter Speed = 1 / (Frame Rate x 2)
24fps - Cinematic Standard
The classic film look. Use for ceremony, vows, speeches, and narrative moments.
Use for: Ceremony (entire), vows, speeches, first look, emotional moments, interviews, main documentary coverage.
60fps - Beautiful Slow Motion
2.5x slow motion when played back at 24fps. Perfect for dramatic moments.
Use for: Walking down aisle, first kiss, ring exchange, bouquet toss, sparkler exit, dress reveal, confetti/petals, dance dips.
120fps - Dramatic Slow Motion
5x slow motion at 24fps playback. Use sparingly for maximum impact.
Use for: Veil blowing in wind, champagne pour, confetti falling, water/waves, sparkler details, emotional tear.
Frame Rate Quick Reference
| Frame Rate | Shutter Speed | Slow Motion | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24fps | 1/48 or 1/50 | 1x (normal) | Main footage, cinematic feel |
| 30fps | 1/60 | 1.25x slight slow | Broadcast, social media |
| 60fps | 1/120 or 1/125 | 2.5x slow motion | Key moments, beauty shots |
| 120fps | 1/250 | 5x slow motion | Dramatic effect, details |
| 240fps | 1/500 | 10x slow motion | Special effects, rarely needed |
Log vs. Standard Picture Profiles
Log/Flat Profiles
- Maximum dynamic range
- Requires color grading
- More flexibility in post
- Higher file sizes
- Sony S-Log, Canon C-Log, Panasonic V-Log
Best for: Controlled environments, time for post-production
Standard/Rec.709
- Ready-to-use color
- Less post work required
- Lower dynamic range
- Smaller files
- Good for run-and-gun
Best for: Fast turnaround, same-day edits
ND Filter Quick Guide for Video
Video requires locked shutter speeds (180-degree rule), so ND filters are essential for controlling exposure outdoors.
Variable ND: Convenient but can cause X-pattern at extreme settings. Fixed ND is optically superior.
Audio Settings Reference
Always: Record backup audio. Use external recorder for ceremony. Monitor with headphones. Record room tone.
- Bright conditions: ND filters are essential - Hawaii sun is intense
- Wind noise: Use dead cats/windscreens on all mics, trade winds are constant
- Ocean audio: Can be beautiful or overwhelming - control with mic placement
- Humidity: Acclimate gear before shooting, lens fog is real
- Reflective surfaces: Water, sand reflect a lot of light - use ND generously
- Color temperature: Beach scenes can be very blue - warm in post or with white balance