Wedding videography audio checklist.

Charge all wireless mic transmitters and receivers fully

Install fresh batteries in all lavalier mic transmitters

Do not reuse partially drained batteries on a wedding.

Install fresh batteries in portable recorder

Test wireless mic system: transmit, receive, check signal strength

Test recorder: record 30 seconds, play back, confirm audio quality

Check windshields are clean and undamaged

Pack spare lavalier mic capsule and clip

Pack spare batteries for all devices

Pack gaffer tape for securing lav mics under clothing

Camera shotgun mic active — levels set for ambient room sound

Getting-ready rooms are usually conversational volume. Set accordingly.

Test audio levels with someone speaking at normal volume

Position mic close to action — do not rely on range when avoidable

Record ambient room sounds before the couple arrives

Music playing, conversation — useful B-roll audio.

Arrive early enough to wire the groom before guests arrive

Minimum 20 minutes before ceremony start.

Fit wireless lav mic on groom under shirt — tape to sternum

Avoid fabric that rustles. Test movement — arms raised, hugging.

Test wireless lav signal from ceremony position

Walk the full room to check for dead spots.

Set secondary recorder near the officiant or PA system

Set recorder levels — aim for -12 dB peaks in quiet speech

Check wind conditions for outdoor ceremonies — fit windshields

Start all recorders and confirm recording before guests are seated

Monitor audio through headphones during the ceremony

Confirm both audio sources are recording before vows begin

Monitor lav mic levels during the first exchange — adjust if needed

The partner without the lav mic will be quieter. Note for post.

Do not swap lenses or adjust gear during vows

The slightest noise will be audible in the recording.

For readings: position a mic near the reader's podium if possible

A Zoom H1 left on the podium is invisible and highly effective.

Remove lav mic from groom before cocktail hour if not needed

Avoids recording private conversations unintentionally.

Set up audio for speeches: lav mic or recorder near the speaker

Ask coordinator for the speaking order. Set up before the first speaker.

Test speech audio levels before speeches begin

Reset levels for reception music — often much louder than ceremony

Capture first dance audio — both music and any spoken moments

Back up all audio recorder files alongside video footage

Spot-check ceremony audio before leaving the venue

Play back 30 seconds of vows from the recorder. Confirm it recorded.

Label audio files by section before backing up

Ceremony-lav.wav, Ceremony-recorder.wav, Speeches.wav etc.

Note any audio issues for the edit while fresh

Dropped signal, wind noise, quiet partner — log it now.