One of the main reasons for choosing a professional video service is the level of professional equipment available.  Lighting during weddings varies considerably depending on the location, time of day, and even the cloud cover.  The cameras that we use make the best possible use of available lighting to create rich colors even in low light situations.  The other main component, often neglected by home videos, is quality sound.  We use wireless microphones to bring the sound to the camera rather than hoping that the PA system will catch some of the sound.  The specially designed lavalier microphones that we use are less than 1/4 of an inch in diameter and are easily hidden on the groom's lapel.

We choose high quality professional equipment.  For those interested in the details, here are some of the important highlights:

Sony Professional 3 CCD Cameras

Sennheiser Wireless and Shotgun Microphones

One of the most neglected areas in home movies is quality sound.  We use quality Sennheiser wireless UHF microphones to get sound right from the source.  One of the mics is placed on the groom to capture the vows.  This mic is omnidirectional and very sensitive so it will clearly pick up the sound from bride as well.  The other is usually for the person performing the ceremony since they do most of the talking.  The on-camera microphone on the PD150 has been replaced with a Sennheiser ME66/K6 directional shotgun microphone.  This mic is very sensitive and also very directional.  It works very well recording people with other noise in the room, such as at receptions.  We also have two digital audio recorders that can be used as backup to the wireless systems or for additional sound sources such as a reader or singer.

Bogen/Manfrotto Tripods, Monopods, and Shoulder Mounts