When possible, I like to place a small microphone on the bride. I say when possible because, realistically, it doesn’t always work out. Sometimes timings are tight, or it’s simply not feasible to conceal the microphone or mic pack properly.
When we can do it though, we absolutely will because it gives a much cleaner, more balanced audio feed. Most videographers will just mic the groom, which is completely fine, and I’ll do the same if needed. The bride’s voice will naturally be quieter due to distance, but this can be adjusted in post by either boosting her audio or lowering the groom’s to match.
So how is it fitted?
In Lucy’s case, we used a small white lapel microphone placed discreetly inside the dress along the chest line. This is always positioned on the dress before it’s put on. A very thin cable runs down the inside of the dress to a compact mic pack, which sits in a comfortable thigh strap. And don’t worry while I place the pack into the strap, a bridesmaid or the bride’s mother will fit it. The whole setup is completely invisible.
The big question: why bother?
Aside from creating a more balanced audio mix and adding an extra layer of redundancy (which is crucial weddings are one-time events, and backup options are invaluable), the real benefit is what it captures beyond the ceremony.
As Lucy walks down the aisle, she’s interacting with friends and family smiling, speaking, sharing moments. While this is technically picked up by the camera’s onboard microphone, it’s not clean. You hear footsteps, clapping, and background music competing with those moments.
With a dedicated mic on the bride, that audio becomes clear and usable.
And that’s the real advantage it gives far more flexibility in the edit. Without it, those moments likely wouldn’t make it into the final film at all.
The big question: why bother?
Aside from creating a more balanced audio mix and adding an extra layer of redundancy (which is crucial weddings are one-time events, and backup options are invaluable), the real benefit is what it captures beyond the ceremony.
As Lucy walks down the aisle, she’s interacting with friends and family smiling, speaking, sharing moments. While this is technically picked up by the camera’s onboard microphone, it’s not clean. You hear footsteps, clapping, and background music competing with those moments.
With a dedicated mic on the bride, that audio becomes clear and usable.
And that’s the real advantage it gives far more flexibility in the edit. Without it, those moments likely wouldn’t make it into the final film at all.
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