Top 5 photography and videography tips from Hannah of Patsimo Film and Stills on How to Make Your Wedding More Emotional (and Actually Remember It That Way)

Let’s talk about the stuff that gives you goosebumps. Not the Pinterest-perfect table styling or the 47th shot list you send your planner (although hey, I get it). I’m talking about the feel-it-in-your-bones, catch-your-breath, this-is-really-happening kind of moments. Because as a wedding videographer and photographer, the moments that stay with you forever… they’re not always the ones you planned. Here’s how to make your wedding more emotional — not in a dramatic way, but in a heart-full, beautifully messy, truly you kind of way.

Write your own vows (and actually say them out loud)
Yes, it’s terrifying. Yes, you’ll probably cry. And yes — it’s absolutely worth it. There’s something so vulnerable and grounding about speaking your heart out in front of your person and your people. It’s not about being a poet — it’s about being honest. And trust me, those are the moments that hit differently on film. A teary, shaky-voiced “I love how safe you make me feel” trumps a Pinterest quote any day. Pro tip: Keep a tissue tucked into your bouquet. You’ll thank me later.

Do a private first look (or something only the two of you share)
This doesn’t have to be the traditional “see each other before the ceremony” moment. It can be reading letters to each other back-to-back, exchanging a gift, or sneaking away for 5 quiet minutes before the chaos begins. Whatever version suits you — do something that’s just for you two. The kind of thing that feels sacred, unfiltered, and yours alone. It not only slows down the day, but it gives us the chance to capture a real connection, not just a crowd.

Let the day breathe
When your schedule is packed to the minute, there’s no room for the unexpected — and that’s where the real stuff happens. Build in space. For a deep breath. For a moment with your gran. For a spontaneous dance with your flower girl. Weddings move fast. Give yourself time to actually feel it. And if I whisper, “Hold that hug for one more second”? Trust me. That second makes the frame.

Don’t perform
Be present! It’s so easy to fall into the “what should we be doing now?” trap. Should we be laughing more? Should we be posing? Should we be mingling harder? Here’s your permission slip to drop the act. Your guests are there for you. Your photos and video will reflect how you felt, not how you looked trying to curate it. You don’t need to smile on command. You just need to be there — fully. And when that happens? We get gold. The kind of footage that doesn’t just show your wedding, but feels like your love story.

Surround yourself with people who make you feel safe
Sounds obvious, but it makes all the difference. Your wedding day isn’t the time to worry about impressing people or pleasing everyone. It’s for being wrapped up in love, in laughter, in support. And that includes your vendors. Find a photographer or videographer (hi ) who doesn’t just take great pictures but makes you feel seen. Someone who knows when to step in and when to disappear into the background. That trust? It creates space for those emotional, unposed, unforgettable moments to unfold.

Final Thought
At the end of the day, emotional weddings aren’t about adding more — they’re about feeling more. Slowing down, showing up, and letting yourself be soft in the middle of it all. You won’t remember every second. But you will remember how it felt. And that’s what I’m here to capture:

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