What Makes a Wedding Video Cinematic? Lana & Jacob’s Wedding at The Vintage Court

When people ask what makes a wedding film "cinematic," they usually mean: How do you make it feel like more than just a recap? For us, it's not about flashy transitions or dramatic music. It’s about storytelling. Thoughtful pacing. Real emotion. And time to breathe.

Here’s what made Lana and Jacob’s wedding film feel truly cinematic, and how that reflects our overall approach:

1. Personal letter readings
Lana and Jacob read letters privately before the ceremony, and those readings were full of emotion, honesty, and faith. Their words grounded the film in something real. When couples are willing to be present and vulnerable, it always shows in the final edit.

2. Including the rehearsal dinner
They invited us to film the night before. That gave us time to capture rehearsal dinner speeches, family dynamics, and little moments you can’t always get on the wedding day. It added depth and context to the story.

3. Unique, intentional moments
From the choreographed bridesmaid dance to prayer during the ceremony, everything they planned was true to them. A wedding day doesn’t need to follow a script. When couples include moments that matter to them, the film writes itself.

4. Time and space to film
They gave us enough time to be creative. Nothing was rushed. We had margin to shoot intentionally, capture details, and find the right light. That time makes all the difference in how a film feels.

5. Connection with the couple
Michael had known Lana for years, which gave him a natural sense of how to film and edit in a way that felt like her. Knowing your couple helps turn a good film into a great one.

6. Faith at the center
Their faith wasn’t just mentioned. It was present in their vows, letters, ceremony, and community. That shaped the tone of the entire film and gave it weight.

7. A joy-filled environment
They were surrounded by people who knew them well and loved them deeply. There was laughter, happy tears, and genuine celebration. You can’t manufacture that, but you can capture it.

In short, a cinematic wedding film isn’t about effects. It’s about access, time, trust, and thoughtful storytelling. Lana and Jacob gave us all of that.

Check out their film!