The process.
Pre-production.
At first, we meet, either by phone or virtually. This gives us a chance to discuss your needs, hopes, budget, and other details such as the venue. Each film is custom so I want to make you the film that you are dreaming of, even if you aren’t 100% sure what that looks like yet.
Production.
Your wedding will be filmed entirely on a vintage 16mm motion picture camera. Creating the illusion of being everywhere at once, I work as unobtrusively as possible, quietly capturing moments throughout the day. Our cameras do not record sound but when rolling you can hear the vintage purring of the hand-cranked motor. Watching these cameras in action is a treat in itself.
Processing.
After your event your precious rolls of film are sent to a lab for processing and 4K digitization. This can take a few weeks.
Editing.
This is where the magic happens. All the footage captured on your special day is carefully edited into a final 7-10 minute film and set to music of your choice.
Premiere.
Your final film is first sent to you via an online link that you may access and share at any time. Copies of the final film are beautifully packaged and delivered on USB ready for you to share. And all the original film negative reels are yours to keep, forever!
Investment.
My pricing is customized to my clients’ needs and desires as every event and couple are unique. Beyond weddings, I have also created engagement films, music videos, family films and more, and will customize a package to fit exactly what you need. Commissioned film investments range from $950 - $6,500 CND. If you dream about having your event captured on motion picture film then let’s chat to see how we can make that dream a reality.
FAQ
What types of films do you make? I create short legacy films, primary using vintage 16mm motion picture cameras and Kodak film, occasionally with a bit of super 8 mixed in. These vintage cameras do not record sound so the footage from the day is edited to music. Final films run on average between 7-10 minutes, leaving enough time to capture everything but still keep it at a length where you, family and friends can watch it over and over again.
What are the advantages of film? Film negatives last forever, the look is timeless, and the footage is always beautiful without any filters needed. The experience of having an artist capture your day with a midcentury hand-cranked camera that quietly “purrs” when we are rolling is also so very unique, and guests often marvel at the process itself.
Why do you prefer 16mm over super 8? 16mm film has all the beauty of super 8 film…the grain, the stunning colours, the flattering way it captures skin tones, but 16mm has 4x higher resolution than super 8. Additionally, 16mm cameras are more reliable, have better lenses, and allow for more control over the image. Fun fact: the type of camera I use (a Bolex) was the go-to choice for documentary filmmakers and journalists before digital video was available.
What if the film doesn’t turn out? Of the thousands of rolls I have shot over the last 20 years there has never been a technical issue that has ruined my footage. I’m not saying it cannot happen, just as it can with digital files, but over the years I have developed a wonderful relationship with excellent labs. In the very unlikely event that something did happen, and the footage was ruined, being so confident that this would never happen, I guarantee a 100% refund on your whole investment.
What is included? Every wedding film commission includes one filmmaker (Bri), multiple meetings, flexible day-of-coverage (typically 6-8 hours), film stock, processing, 2K digitization, a final edited film set to music, personal online version and copies of the final film on USB with all original film negatives on a reel. Full delivery can be expected within 10 weeks.
Are you available to travel? Absolutely. I am based in Ottawa but have travelled to nearly 40 countries so not only am I willing to travel but I am seasoned and very much enjoy it.
Who will film our event? Bri Redmond (aka Bridget), is the lead filmmaker and will carefully work with your event schedule to maximize coverage. One advantage of having only one filmmaker there are less travel costs. If additional filmmakers are requested, we can certainly make that happen.
How do you work with photographers? I am actually also a professionally trained photographer so I understand the job they need to do. I love working alongside fellow artists and keep communication open throughout the day. (Many photographers have quietly told me I am their favourite “video” vendor to work with as I keep the process low-key and respectfully stay out of their shots).
Do you use lights, tripods, etc.? One of the wonderful advantages to my approach to film-based filmmaking is how unobtrusive the whole process is. Almost all films are captured by just me, usually handheld using available light. I will pop in some lighting for a first dance if it is dark but overall, I strive to quietly capture the day as it naturally unfolds rather than direct or distract.
How do you select the music? I like to work with the client and choose the most fitting music that will work best with their film. If you already know which songs you want me to use, I can certainly work with whatever you choose or if you prefer, I select some options I am happy to do that for you as well.