A long time ago, almost ten years now, I started shooting with Super 8mm cameras. In the beginning it was experimentation with the different types of cameras, various films, scanning into digital formats. Now, I feel like I've grown even more fond of this vintage format. There's nothing quiet like the feeling it gives me, and the feeling of uniqueness it offers. While digital images are stunning, the images on film are so raw and authentic. Like some who prefer playing a vinyl record over a digital recording, Super 8mm is my visual equivalent. It's thicker. Grittier. The colours and imperfections can't be mistaken.

Janessa and Luke had there elopement wedding in the Stockton sand dunes, north of Newcastle. We photographed and filmed this beautiful day.

Is it easy to shoot a wedding using Super 8mm? No, it isn't. For starters, each cartridge of Super 8mm film has a finite length. And shooting at 18fps means you'll get around 3 minutes of footage. Unlike todays mega memory cards where you can store hours of footage onto a single card. Secondly, there's no monitor screen. You don't have the luxury of taking a quick look at what you've shot. One's you pull the trigger on the camera it's filming, so you need to carefully frame each shot.

Bianca and Aaron eloped in the Blue Mountains. We photographed and filmed it all on Super 8 cameras

There are also different stocks of film depending on the environment you are working in. Each stock has it's own form of beauty. Using 50D, 200T or 500T films will generally be the normal. While Tri-X is used for black and white exposures and the re-birthing of Ektachrome 100D is also an option. Which brings us to the next, probably key element when using Super 8 for your wedding day, the camera. There are literally hundreds of cameras available trough eBay and whatnot which means you can pick one up fairly easily, but given these cameras are at least thirty plus years old, their conditions and functions vary greatly. I recommend film testing any camera you plan to use to film a special day.

Cassie and Trent opted for a beach wedding, at Caves Beach, which we shot entirely on Super 8 film cameras

Make sure the light meters work and you understand all of the functions of your Super 8 camera before you pop a cartridge in the chamber or pull the trigger. Don't waste your film. It's expensive to purchase and develop and scan. Frame your shots. Expose them correctly. Otherwise you may well end up with a few rolls of useless overexposed film to give to your Bride and Groom. And that won't be a good day.... for you. On the other hand let me film your wedding using tried and tested cameras, I have many, and I'll guarantee you will have the best wedding video ever!

Christopher and Sean had their wedding in Newcastle and it was all shot by me on Kodak film

​Whether you are planning to elope, or have a full blown showstopper wedding, having it shot in Super 8 will give you the warm and fuzzies. Naturally I'd love to be the one you choose as your videographer and or photographer. Having a Super 8 wedding video will blow your guests away. I'm always stunned at the amount of people who approach me and ask " what is that?" I like to call it "escaping the done thing". Get in touch if you want to find out more about this retro-vintage trend setting way to make your day fun and truly candid.

​Ben Ean, formally known as Lindeman’s Estate is one of the most breathtaking and sought after sites in the Hunter Wine Country. The 174 year strong Winery & Vineyard under the new ownership of the Peterson's & McGuigan families, has undergone extensive refurbishment bringing the venue back to its former glory, with an onsite Cellar Door, Award winning restaurant, multiple function areas, Ceremony locations and set on 200 acres provides the perfect location for your wedding.

We've shot many weddings at this venue, and our absolute favourite spot is One Tree Hill situated in the vineyards at the back of the property. Take a look at this Teaser Trailer from the wedding film of The Bains, Lara and Robert. Drone shots galore gives this place the justice it deserves. Enjoy!

Boasting beautifully handcrafted timber trusses and sandstone blocks, the brand-new, architecturally designed Peterson House Chapel is the ideal place to hold your ceremony in the Hunter Valley. The Chapel is fast becoming the Best Vineyard Wedding Venue. With individual seating for over 220 guests, your ceremony in The Chapel will be the perfect beginning to your wedding day. Behind the large timber doors, you will be wowed by the Chapel’s high ceilings and gorgeous hand-crafted metal work including a stunning chandelier. You will also have access to the entire property and can choose an outdoor garden ceremony at numerous locations on the grounds. Included in this will be timber benches that can seat up to 28 guests and a signing table and chairs.

Here's a teaser from the wedding film of Mr & Mrs. Eberle we recently shot at the venue. PS The drone footage in this clip requires CASA Licenced drone pilots due to it's proximity to the nearby Cessnock runway. An as a matter of fact, we hold up to date RePL and ReOC qualifications to get those dreamy aerial shots for your big day. Take a look, enjoy!

Most soon-to-be married couples choose to hire a photographer to document the entire wedding day, and that's true whether they're eloping or throwing a black-tie party for 300 guests. Not all, however, decide to hire a videographer. It's truly an individual decision, but one that most wedding experts (and married folks who hired one for their big day) recommend no matter what type of wedding you're planning. Although part of the appeal of an elopement is that you're able to cut back on many of the big-ticket wedding-related details, it may actually make the most sense for couples tying the knot on their own to shell out for a videographer. A documented memory of the elopement is something a couple can cherish forever and also share with others-not only friends and family who weren't present, but also children and grandchildren who will cherish the video for decades to come.
Before you decide one way or another ask yourselves whether or not you even want to share the moment with others, like family and friends, afterward. Would you regret not having it captured to view for yourself? While you're in the moment, time flies faster than light it seems and the memory can seem like one big blur. Interestingly, various polls over the years have shown that 98 percent of brides regret not hiring a videographer while 35 percent of couples who did hire one say they wish they'd spent more money on it." Bottom line: The consensus is to hire a videographer and to make sure they're good.

WEDDING VIDEOGRAPHER - QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN SEARCHING FOR THE BEST! 
In addition to ensuring that they're skilled and reputable, your videographer should have a portfolio and clients that can give reviews. Ask any vendors you're working with for a videographer recommendation. "A wedding planner can also review the contract to ensure your wishes are granted. While you're at it, ensure that the videographer you desire is actually the one who will be filming your event and not someone else in their business.
While you might not be able to meet your videographer in person before your big day, have a phone call or a video chat session to discuss their style, how they work, and any other people they might hire to help them on the big day. Discuss the timeline because the photographer will usually do a photo session first, then the videographer will work with you to capture what they need. Be sure to allow enough time for both sessions before the light changes."
Unlike a photography session, which might last only an hour or so, you can't assume that you will pay less for a video package just because it's an elopement. "The videographer must block off the entire day to film your wedding, so regardless of whether they film four hours or eight, you will likely have to pay a full-day rate. Also, be ready to pay or reimburse the vendor for travel expenses, if applicable, which vary per vendor, so be sure that it's made clear on what else you will be responsible for paying for so that there are no surprises.

Tucked away in the Wollombi Valley is the amazing Stonehurst Cedar Creek. We've photographed and filmed this location many times but there's always a whimsical beauty here, weather in the trees or up on the hillside, you will always get so stunning shots. Ash and Mitch were married among the Poplar Trees and had their reception in the cellar, surrounded by fermenting organic wines. The week leading up to the wedding day was tinted with sadness as Ashleigh's Grandmother, Heather, passed away. Although there we tough moments for the families to get through there were also great scenes of celebration and fun. Here's a teaser taken from their full film.

Cassie and Trent are the power couple from Circa 1876 in the Hunter Valley. Cassie plans your day amazingly and ensures everyone is perfectly catered for and loved. Trent is the executive chef behind the delicious meals. It took Trent a few attempts to introduce himself to Cassie but with a little help from a colleague and a couple of drinks after work and drinking warm bears on the beach in the morning. The day rolled on and each of them arrived to work wearing bright red sunburns. The evidence was hard to hide and the rest is history. Wishing these lovers the very happiest life together!

This wedding was filmed entirely on Super 8mm. We love this format so much and have some limited pricing available on our website here.

Jess and Terry first met when they were just 14 years old! While working part-time at Dominoes Pizza. Jess says Terry used to frustrate the heck out of her, but in the end his sense of humor won here over. He always made her laugh with his silly little jokes. Terry just remembers how easy it was to push Jess's buttons. Apart from that in terms of his feelings towards Jess, these were feeling that grew over time. Terry recalls that once the two did fall in love, it was a love which grew really fast. Even if he didn't want to admit it back then, he says at that time, he could never have dreamed he could love someone as much as he did then. Since that time they have created a really beautiful, committed partnership based on trust, honesty, fun, laughter, loyalty, strength, acceptance and love. So,so much love.

A chance meeting 10 years ago at a mutual friends gathering and by the end of 2016 this romance began. Simon's first impression of Christina, stunning, with eyes that cut right through you and a warm, engaging smile. Her Mum nicknames her Sunny, and he never needed to ask why, the second you meet Christina you feel instantly warmed by her presence. Fate made sure their destiny was back on track as Christina was travelling through Europe with her sister enjoying the 2016 European Football competition in Lisbon as Portugal won the finals, which caught Simon's attention as he is a huge football fan.

Simon and Christina and engaged in some banter while she was away and deciding to catch up for drinks some months later Christina came to know Simon as a genuine, deeply passionate, thoughtful man, and she knows he will be as dedicated to her and their future as she will be to him. He is supportive and helps Christina continuously be the best version of herself and she knows he is the perfect man.

Just six weeks after their very first Christmas together she felt completely love with him. Right from the very beginning he knew it was the same feeling. He says Christina has a bigger heart than anyone he knows and her compassion and happiness comes out in him, making him want to be a better person. When they first started dating there was an instant connection and he was taken back by her depth and outlook on a lot of important things, these things matched his, and  he wanted to be around her as much as he could. Everything was easier and he knew he was in love with her from then on.

Whenever we pack the kit and prepare for your wedding we are also planning our shots. We are planning how we can do things differently to the previous wedding. Being true believers in the thought " your only as good as your last wedding " gives us energy and fresh perspective on each approach. A huge part of the process is the location, and there are so many incredible properties these days it's hard to pick a favourite, but right up there with the best of the best is the whimsical Circa 1876 in the Hunter Valley. More than the scenery or historical buildings it's also the food which leaves us drooling. Take a look at this teaser trailer from the wedding film of Christina & Simon. Be inspired, Fall in Love.  

Christopher & Sean were married at Newcastle's ( almost ) highest point at Shepherds Hill which is in King Edward Park. The party carried on into the night at 48 Watt Street, Newcastle. Two local guys getting hitched in front of a cheering bunch of Family and Friends. Tow local guys who have a connection and love everyone seeks. Filming this one completely in Super 8 Film ( with a little bit of 4K drone footage thrown into the mix ) wasn't easy. the low sun during ceremony and candlelit reception made it a real challenge. Still, the result is an incredible story and captivating imagery. Perfectly Imperfect!

Married by Jules Amidy and the suits were by Rundle Tailoring with florals by Little Wren with beautiful styling by The Wedding Designer and on the stills was The Wedding Architect. The car Absolute Vintage and Wedding reception venue 48 Watt Street. We love it, a 14 minute runtime.... enjoy!

Right now we have introductory pricing on this epic format, head over to our Super page for more information!

We believe there are only a handful of true life moments and they should all be recorded as they happen. Your Wedding Day will be one of those moments. Don't regret not capturing the milestones by saying "one day we should... " or "maybe next time" because even if you do get around to it, it will be too late. I guess what we're saying here is don't procrastinate and don't underestimate a moment and the value that moment inherits as time goes by. Get in touch with us, tell us about your upcoming pregnancy, birth, 1st Birthday, 30th Birthday even. Get in touch with us and we will be sure to make a film you will never regret having made. ​Have a look at what we can do right here!