My Top Tips for Live Streaming your Wedding on Zoom
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Introduction
Live streaming has become an invaluable tool for weddings, especially since Covid. Many couples have embraced the idea of broadcasting their wedding ceremony to loved ones who may be unable to attend in person, making live streaming your wedding something every couple should be seriously considering.
No matter how big or small your wedding is, there’s always going to be someone who can’t make it in person. But thanks to Zoom, hosting your wedding online is like the easiest thing ever. It’s cheap, it’s simple, and pretty much everyone knows how to use it. So, it’s a stress-free way to make sure everyone feels included, whether they’re across town (I’ve had lots of grandparents who weren’t well enough to travel!) or across the globe.
But hold up, before you start sending out Zoom invites, there are a bunch of things you should think about to make sure it all goes smoothly. We’re talking tech stuff, engagement ideas, and all that jazz. Trust me, you don’t wanna be dealing with technical hiccups on your big day.
So, in this blog post, I’m gonna spill all my top tips for live streaming your wedding on Zoom, straight from my own experience as a celebrant. Whether you’re a tech whiz or a total newbie, these tips will help you nail your virtual ceremony without breaking a sweat. ‘Cause let’s be real, if it doesn’t work, it’ll be a bit devastating for you and your online guests.
Delegate, delegate, delegate
If you’re thinking about live streaming your wedding, you’ve got to make sure you’ve got your ducks in a row. And that means putting someone tech-savvy in charge on the big day. Trust me, you do not want to be the one scrambling to fix glitches while a few minutes before the ceremony starts. It’s like a recipe for stress, and who needs that on their wedding day, right?
But hey, don’t just dump it on them and hope for the best. It’s all about setting them up for success. Give yourself a crash course in Zoom wizardry so you can train them up and make sure they know the ins and outs. And feel free to share this article with them too 😉
Ask your dedicated tech-person to arrive early to set up and double-check everything. Here’s a pro tip: consider going live about 30 minutes before the ceremony kicks off for a test run. Have someone watching online to give feedback in real-time, so any glitches can be ironed out before the main event.
Guest Participation is Key
You want your online guests (as well as your in-person guests) to feel like they’re right there with you, not just watching from the sidelines. They’re not just witnesses; they’re an integral part of the ceremony, sharing in your joy and love.
Send online guests invites too
First things first, make sure your at-home guests feel just as invited as those physically present. Take a cue from Rachel & Matt (photos above) and send out formal invitations well in advance, complete with the streaming details. Don’t forget the details – let them know how to get in the spirit, whether it’s dressing up, preparing some snacks, or mixing up their favorite cocktail. And if you can, give them a heads up on how long the live-stream will last.
Encourage all the guests to chat before the ceremony
Now, here’s where the fun really starts. Before the ceremony kicks off, start the video stream a bit early so your virtual crew can have a good ol’ chinwag without missing a beat. And why not get the party started by having some of the early arriving in-person guests say a big hello and introduce themselves to everyone tuning in online?!
Acknowledge online guests
During the ceremony itself, don’t forget about your digital audience. Every now and then, make sure you or the celebrant gives them a nod or a friendly wave – it’s like giving them a virtual high-five!
Include them in the Toast
And when it’s time for the signing, why not encourage your online guests to top up their drinks too so you can all raise a glass together? After all, it’s not a party without a toast.
Give important online guests a role
How about giving your online guests a chance to shine? It’s possible to unmute someone for a reading or some heartfelt marriage advice.
Allow time for Congratulations
Make some time for the online guests after the I Dos. Don’t rush off. Build a few minutes into your timeline so you can say hi and everyone can shower you with well-wishes. After all, love knows no distance, especially in the digital age!
Tips for Live Streaming Your Wedding
Liaise with the Photographer + Videographer
Liaise with your photographer and videographer on camera positioning- you don’t want to hinder them from doing their job. Often the person setting it up, places the camera in the middle of aisle until I politely point out that the person getting married needs to walk that way! Consider having it just to the right or the left of the aisle in the second row or moving the tripod back into the aisle after the walking in is complete. Your ideal Point of View may depend on how many actual guests are attending the wedding in person, and how close you want your online guests to be.
Record the Ceremony
Press the record option so you can watch the live stream back after the event and see what the virtual guests experienced. Be ready with a back up plan in case the live stream cuts out. Worst case scenario you can record the ceremony on another device and upload the recording for the guests later.
With the video recording, you can create a wedding video and upload it later for guests who couldn’t join live. Editing your video clips is easier now with advanced tools like video background noise remover. Adding narration to special moments or overlaying music can enhance the vibe of your wedding video. You can use the vows as a narrative thread or try a voice generator tool. This way, everyone can relive the special day, regardless of whether they attended in person or virtually.
Check your Zoom account features before Live Streaming your Wedding
Make sure to double-check your Zoom account features and make sure you’re on Zoom Pro. The free version cuts out after 40 minutes and caps at 100 people. But trust me, with tech glitches and all the chatting before and after the ceremony, that might not cut it.
WIFI Connection
When it comes to your WiFi connection, make sure it’s rock solid and thoroughly tested. If you’re relying on the venue’s WiFi, keep in mind you might be sharing bandwidth and if it’s an outdoor wedding, you’ll need to consider how far away from the router you are.
And if you’re going mobile with your phone, ensure you’ve got a strong signal and plenty of data. Trust me, those Hunter Valley vineyards can be a bit iffy when it comes to network coverage!
Use a Tri-pod when Live Streaming Your Wedding
The camera (phone, tablet, laptop, GoPro) should be mounted on a tripod not held in a guest’s hand. The in-built stabilisation feature mitigates the wibble-wobble but your friend’s arm will probably want to drop off by the end of the ceremony. Don’t forget to use a tripod for your camera (whether it’s a phone, tablet, laptop, or GoPro). While the built-in stabilisation can help reduce wobbling, your friend’s arm might feel like it’s ready to drop off by the end of the ceremony if they’re holding it the whole time.
Camera Orientation
Stick to the standard wide view rather than portrait mode for a more enjoyable experience, especially for those tuning in from devices other than phones.
Charge your Device
Don’t forget to charge up your device to the max before showtime – we’re talking full battery power for an outdoor ceremony with a portable power bank too! The last thing you want is your phone tapping out right in the middle of that all-important kiss. And hey, while you’re at it, give that lens a quick wipe-down before you start filming too.
Audio Considerations when Live Streaming Your Wedding
Audio can be a real headache, so it’s essential to tackle it head-on. Phones often struggle to pick up what’s being said unless they’re super close, so here’s what you need to do: ask your celebrant to use a PA system, even if it’s just a small gathering. It’ll make a world of difference. And if you’re serious about audio quality, consider splurging on some upgraded audio gear. Trust me, it’s worth it.
If you’re ceremony is outdoors, buying an external microphone with a sound baffle – also known as a windshield – is a game-changer. Some are super affordable and can plug directly into your smartphone, so no fancy setup required. And if you really want to go all out, why not rock a wireless mic pinned discreetly onto you or your partner? It’s the ultimate audio hack for a ceremony that sounds as good as it looks.
Other streaming platforms to consider when Live Streaming your Wedding
While Zoom might be the go-to choice for many couples, there’s a whole world of streaming platforms out there just waiting to bring your wedding to life. So if Zoom isn’t your cup of tea, fear not – there are plenty of other options to explore!
Consider Vimeo for a touch of elegance or Google Meet for a familiar and seamless experience. Platforms like Facebook Live, Skype, and Apple’s Group FaceTime offer different levels of intimacy, and there is also Twitter Periscope and Amazon Twitch if you are already on those platforms. Instagram TV and YouTube Live cater to different audience sizes, and LoveStream offers a personalised streaming experience tailored for weddings. The most suitable platform for you is likely the one with which you or the designated camera operator is most familiar.
Professional Services for Live Streaming Your Wedding
If the thought of streaming your wedding on your own, stresses you, don’t discount using a professional streaming service like Event Pix who offer a multi-camera service using professional video cameras, microphones and mixing equipment or Rogue who are a local photography and videography company who have become experts in live streaming since the pandemic.
If you found these tips helpful, you’ll love diving into more of my blog articles. With nearly a decade of experience as a celebrant in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley, I’ve got a treasure trove of advice and real wedding inspiration waiting for you.
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