Timecapsules || The Importance Of Wedding Films
Why have a wedding film?
I delve into this topic with the aid of a past bride who tragically experienced devastating events. A time capsule is an apt description of what we create in a wedding film. It’s a historic cache of good times, family, friends, and love—which I believe are the truest treasures of all.
During a recent best man speech, an American labour leader and civil rights activist named Cesar Chavez was mentioned. Intrigued by this unfamiliar figure, I did a quick bit of research and found a quote that feels very fitting. He said:
“True wealth is not measured in money or status or power. It is measured in the legacy we leave behind for those we love and those we inspire.”
In mentioning the legacies we leave behind, Cesar Chavez was right! Through film, we have the ability to communicate across generations and inspire them with the goodness in our lives. We demonstrate love, we celebrate living, and in so doing, we create a lasting legacy.
In my youth, as many people do, I had a carefree attitude towards time. Perhaps this is an honest aspect of being young—to have a certain disregard or naivety toward the inevitable end. But as I’ve grown older and my role in life shifted from husband to father, I’ve realised how cavalier I once was.
These days, there seem to be darker tones lingering in my mind: the juxtapositions of life, the fear of losing what I love. Because although there are beautiful moments in life, equal pain can accompany them. This is part of why I continue creating the films I do: to celebrate the joyous moments so they can help balance the sadness.
Not capturing my own wedding day on film was the spark that gave Cinemate its life. As the years have passed and I’ve had the privilege of being invited into the heart of many incredible family moments, I’ve gained a deeper perspective on the crucial role I play for these families—both now and for their futures. It’s an honour and a responsibility I hold in the highest regard.
In pondering the importance of the visual legacies we leave behind for future generations, my thoughts sometimes turn to the more self-centred aspects of why we invest in, and capture, these visuals. How do our own films affect us? There are countless angles to explore, but I’m drawn to the one that personally strikes me as most devastating—and the one I fear the most: the loss of loved ones.
