How I Film Wedding Days Solo!

A couple at Sylvan Lake in Custer State Park with Nathaniel Wilson Video

Can One Videographer Really Film Your Whole Wedding Day?
If you’re planning a wedding in South Dakota, the Black Hills, or anywhere in the Midwest, you might be asking: “Can one videographer really capture every important moment of our wedding day?”

The answer is—absolutely, yes.

As a professional South Dakota wedding videographer based in Rapid City, I specialize in filming weddings solo—without sacrificing quality, emotion, or coverage. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement in Custer State Park, a classic church wedding in Rapid City, or a scenic ceremony at Sylvan Lake, I’ve developed a proven approach to deliver cinematic, story-driven wedding films with just one filmmaker (me!).

Working with a solo wedding videographer isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about trusting one person who’s completely focused on capturing your story—without the distractions of a big crew.

Many couples getting married in the Black Hills, the rest of South Dakota, or across the Midwest value the quiet, intimate moments of their wedding day. A solo videographer can move quickly, stay discreet, and preserve the natural flow of your day without interruption.

And don’t worry—I don’t cap my coverage at 8 hours like many vendors do. I’m typically with you for 9–10 hours, arriving before your photographer and staying long enough to capture the full energy of your reception. Why? Because telling your story right takes time—and that’s a priority.

What I Bring to Your Wedding
Just because I’m a one-person team doesn’t mean I show up light. I bring the gear, the planning, and the storytelling experience to make sure every part of your wedding is documented.

🎥 Multiple Cameras
I use four cameras throughout the day to capture different angles and moments. For your ceremony in a place like Pine Haven, Besler’s Cadillac Ranch, or even a quiet spot in Badlands National Park, I’ll set up cameras discreetly so your vows, reactions, and joyful tears are preserved from every angle.

🔊 Pro Audio Equipment
Crystal-clear vows and speeches are non-negotiable. I bring dedicated audio gear to capture every word.

🚁 Drone Footage
The Black Hills of South Dakota are incredibly scenic—so of course I bring a drone. Aerial footage of your wedding venue, forested backdrops, or winding canyon roads helps set the tone for a cinematic film.

📦 Compact, Mobile Gear
From Custer to Deadwood, I’ve designed a mobile setup that lets me move efficiently without missing anything. My cameras, tripods, lenses, lights, and batteries are organized in a compact system that travels easily—whether we’re on a mountaintop or a downtown rooftop.

A couple who had their wedding at Besler's Cadillac Ranch with Nathaniel Wilson Video as their wedding videographer.

How I Capture Every Moment Solo
Filming a wedding alone requires strategy. I set up my gear in advance and position myself where I can get the best reactions without interrupting any part of your experience.

First looks? I shoot from an angle that lets me capture both of your reactions, even if I’m not physically filming both sides.

Reception toasts? I set up two or more cameras on tripods for multiple angles while I film close-ups and emotional reactions.

Candid moments? My zoom lenses allow me to stay unobtrusive while filming everything from laughter during portraits to teary-eyed speeches at the reception.

I also use a variety of shot types—wide, medium, and tight—to make your final film feel dynamic, emotional, and polished. I hold each shot just long enough to let it breathe in the edit—so the film flows beautifully from start to finish.

Is One Videographer Enough for Your Wedding?
If you’re getting married in Rapid City, Deadwood, Keystone, Hot Springs, or anywhere across western South Dakota, the answer is a confident yes.

As a local Rapid City wedding videographer, I know the ins and outs of this region. Whether you’re tying the knot lakeside at Sylvan Lake Lodge, celebrating under string lights at The Farmhouse Barn in Sturgis, or getting married on the family ranch, I’ll bring not just cameras—but the experience, creativity, and hustle to tell your story with heart.

Want to See What This Looks Like?
Head over to my wedding film portfolio to see real films from couples who trusted me to film their weddings solo—including full-day coverage in the Black Hills, across South Dakota, and throughout the Midwest.

If you’re dreaming up a wedding day that’s emotional, fun, and authentically you—and you want a Midwest wedding videographer who can bring it to life—let’s talk.

📍 Serving Rapid City, the Black Hills, South Dakota, and the greater Midwest. Always up for travel.

Let me help you relive the best day of your life—again and again.