Hero Shot

Always a clean, powerful shot of the bride and groom together.
This is the anchor of every edit.
Use it once, twice, or even three times.
It reminds the viewer what the entire story is about.

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Title Frame

A provided template keeps everything consistent.
Masking behind a subject is encouraged when it feels natural.
Keep it short and respectful. The title should never overpower the moment.

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B Roll

Not tripod based.
Use close up details, hands, textures, and movement to guide the story.
Shots should feel natural rather than obvious.
Pull natural audio when it adds emotion or tension.
B roll connects scenes without calling attention to itself.

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Transitions

Clean establishing shots or simple drone passes.
They reset the viewer and set the tone for the next moment.
Nothing flashy. Nothing trendy.
Just honest scene changes.

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Micro Scenes

Small story moments with purpose.
First look. Rings. Marriage license. Dances. Cake. Exit.
Place them in a logical flow, but always be flexible.
Every wedding is different and creativity is expected.
Micro scenes add shape and rhythm to the edit.

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Main Scenes

These are the backbone of the day.
Full ceremony. Early reception. Speeches. First dances.
Start calm. Start emotional.
As the reception grows louder, music and pacing can shift with it.
Main scenes decide the emotional arc.

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Audio

All audio must sync to the visual it belongs with.
Start audio before the clip begins and let it trail after it ends.
This sets up the viewer and makes every moment feel intentional.
Clean vows, officiant audio, and speeches carry more weight than music.
Natural sound wins over gimmicks.

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Music

Choose tracks that match the story.
Soft early. Energetic later.
One track for teasers. One or two for highlights.
Extended cuts can reuse the same music.
Music supports the story. It never leads it.

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Sound FX

A small library is provided.
Editors may add more when needed.
Use FX lightly and only when they serve the story.
No overuse. No gimmicks.

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Animated Logo

Provided in pieces so editors can time it cleanly.
You can split the animation from the word mark if needed.
Keep it short and tasteful.

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How This System Applies to Every Edit

 

Vertical Teaser

Under 30 seconds.
Fast pacing. One emotional hook. Strong movement.
Designed for impact and social attention.

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Horizontal Highlight

Three to five minutes.
The main film.
Full story arc using hero shots, micro scenes, and main scenes.
Your best audio leads the story.

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Extended Cut

Add around ten minutes of extended moments pulled from main scenes and micro scenes.
Keep the highlight intact.
Just let the story breathe longer.

 

Doc Edit

Full chronological coverage.
Straightforward cuts. Clean audio. Minimal music.
This is the couple’s full day without the cinematic polish.

 

Editor Mindset

Keep it simple.
Keep it honest.
Build with intention.
Let the couple, the light, and the real moments do the heavy lifting.
Your job is to shape the story without getting in the way.