I cannot stress the importance of wedding videography. Seriously, without totally stressing you out, I implore you to invest in capturing your big day on wedding film!
As an old married lady (haha) who married nearly 5 years ago (!!!), I struggle to remember my big day with any real clarity. Of course, I have my beautiful wedding photos to look back on, but I’m sad to say – we never invested in a videographer. And it’s my biggest wedding regret.
So if you’re looking for a talented professional to capture your big day in an elegant and timeless fashion – you should definitely check out Bijou Films…
In today’s feature we get to know Brook – the man behind Bijou Films a little better and we take a look at some of his work.
WTW readers would love to know about you and your videography journey…
As a teenager I made a lot of films with friends, I enjoyed the overall process and especially editing when I could really bring the story to life. I went on to study film at Aberystwyth University graduating with a 2:1. From there I worked as a runner on big TV productions in London and then as a cameraman and editor for smaller independent production companies in Bristol.
I moved into the magazine publishing sector in 2013 overseeing the video production workflow and producing hundreds of short form films for over 30 brands including 220 Triathlon, Perfect Wedding and BBC History Magazine.
After gaining valuable experience working as a camera operator for an award-winning wedding film company I set up Bijou Films focusing on creating films for weddings, fashion and local artists. I’m naturally more of a listener than a talker, which I think is especially important for wedding films and it’s something that was really key to me when setting up Bijou Films. I won’t be bossing you around all day but instead will observe and capture all the magical moments as the day unfolds naturally.
Who or what inspired you to become a wedding film maker?
My parents were constantly filming me as I was growing up, I started to get quite tired of being the centre of attention and often could be heard saying ‘No more Mummy, no more!” I definitely think being on the other side of the camera inherently developed my fascination with filmmaking, especially the documentary form.
After getting married last year I have taken a much greater interest in wedding videography and really appreciate the beauty of weddings much more. Capturing two people who are so happy and in love surrounded by their friends and family is a joy to do. Who wouldn’t want to be a wedding film maker?
How would you describe your particular style of wedding videography?
I will always take the time to get to know the couple prior to their wedding day. For me it’s important that I’m not a stranger with a camera turning up to your wedding and that you feel relaxed and at ease.
We are all unique and no two weddings are the same. I will always try to reflect a couple’s wedding story in a creative and organic way. My style is discreet and unobtrusive and I prefer to shoot candidly throughout the day. I will always put a huge amount of effort into crafting a truly unique wedding film for each couple that will stir emotions long after the actual day.
If you could go anywhere in the world and film any couple who would that be, why and where would you go?
Iceland holds a very special place in my heart as it’s where I proposed to my wife. I would love to film a couple, deeply in love who decide to elope to the wonderful wintery isle. The landscape is breathtaking and from a filmmakers perspective it’s an absolute dream environment as there are so many dramatic locations to choose from.
What’s your most memorable wedding moment so far?
When you get so wrapped up in the wedding you genuinely don’t want to leave and you start looking for your dancing shoes! Fortunately for the couples I have filmed I have never broken out the dance moves (yet!) but I always admire couples who have learned to dance for their first dance – it always proves to be a show stopper.
Give us 5 facts about you…
I filmed my first wedding 12 years ago when I was 15 dressed as Edward Scissorhands. Don’t worry it was a fancy dress themed ceremony!
I live in Bristol, home to hot air balloons, Banksy, Wallace and Gromit and the Clifton Suspension Bridge.
I got married to my wife, Rebecca in May last year. It was just lovely!
I also run a wedding bell tent hire company with my wife. We love travelling, camping and the outdoors.
I can be quite competitive especially with card and board games, over time I have amassed a collection of cult games like Pandemic, Sushi Go and Forbidden Desert.
When it comes to selecting a wedding videographer, what advice would you give to brides and grooms?
There are a lot of wedding videographers out there, so it’s important to do your research. Look at their portfolio and get in touch, if you don’t feel like they understand you and your type of wedding then they’re probably not the match for you. Much like deciding upon your photographer, ensure they have a wide range of experience. And trust your gut instinct.
Finish this sentence. Keep wanting…
…to create, inspire, love and travel!
Anything else you want WTW readers to know…
For any readers who book through WTW they will receive 15%* discount off all bookings just quote “WTW” when you get in touch! (*excluding travel costs)
To see more of Brook’s elegant and emotive wedding videography and to take advantage of that very generous 15% discount for WTW readers, get in touch with Bijou Films.
