COOL JOBS: Cannon Creative – Lights, Camera, love: The Magic of Wedding Videography

by Katelynn Mouton

Your wedding day will fly by in a blur of happy tears, laugher and once-in-a-lifetime moments, and while photos freeze these memories in beautiful stills, wedding videography brings them back to life.  

For local videographer Brady Cannon, of Cannon Creative—formerly known as Brady Cannon Films— documenting weddings isn’t something that comes with a run-of-the-mill template. “Our films are based on capturing the moments as they happen. I like to tell brides just be you and enjoy your day. As a wedding filmmaker, we are in the people business, so we are really good at pulling the right emotions out of the couple when needed.” 

There are a few key moments that Cannon says are important to capture. “I always encourage the couple to do a first look. When I got married in 2007, first looks weren’t really a thing yet, but I wish they were. I would have loved to have had just one quiet moment with my bride before we got in front of the crowd. A moment to laugh, cry or just pray together. A moment to take in all in.” 

With the fall wedding season upon us, extra scheduling challenges are presented and Cannon explains that there are several things couples need to keep in mind. “Football is a huge part of our community, so I always tell brides to check the LSU schedule! Also, Southwest Louisiana weather can be a challenge. If you want an outdoor wedding, really think about your guests sitting for 30 minutes to an hour in the humidity and then going inside all sweaty. Also, always have a solid backup plan in case weather becomes an issue.” 

Cannon adds that some of the best moments he’s captured have come when plans had to be spontaneous because the weather did not cooperate. He reiterates that whatever you decide, just make sure it’s about you.  

Booking a wedding videographer is something you should consider early on, but Cannon says it is important to make sure the vendor you choose shares your vision. “We take a cinematic approach to capturing your day and our final product is normally between eight to 10 minutes, so if you are wanting a longer, more documentary-style film, we are probably not going to be a good fit.” 

Another key piece of advice Cannon provides is geared more towards ceremony guests. “Please do not film or have your phone or iPad out, especially during the main moments of the ceremony or reception. I have missed some pivotal moments in my 16 years of filming weddings because someone stepped into the aisle as the bride was walking down, or worse, when the kissing of the bride moment happened. These moves can block our main camera, causing us to miss this once-in-a-lifetime moment for the couple.” 

Cannon asks that you please respect the professionals the couple has hired to capture their day. “There are always two photographers in addition to typically two videographers, meaning there are at least five cameras capturing the day. Plus, the couple may not want their day posted on social media. Please respect their privacy as well.” 

Finally, don’t let cost be the reason you skip out on these services. “You will want this footage later. Even if it may not fit the budget, guys like me are always willing to work with you.” 

Learn more by visiting BradyCannonFilms.com.