How to Film a Ketubah Signing: Essential Tips for Capturing This Meaningful Tradition

Filming a ketubah signing is one of the most intimate and meaningful parts of a Jewish wedding. This tradition, which takes place before the ceremony, involves the couple, their closest family members, witnesses, and the officiant. Because it typically occurs in a small, separate room away from the main ceremony guests, having the right approach as a videographer is essential. Here’s how I film ketubah signings to create an emotional and beautifully crafted wedding film.

1. Use Two Cameras for Comprehensive Coverage

A ketubah signing is a close-quarters event, meaning space is limited—especially if you're working alongside a photographer. To capture it effectively, I use two cameras:

• A stationary camera to ensure a consistent wide shot of the entire signing.

• A gimbal-mounted camera for mobility, allowing me to move seamlessly between reactions, details, and b-roll.

This setup ensures I don’t miss any of the emotions while keeping a minimal footprint in the room.

2. Proper Audio Setup is Key

Audio is just as important as video when it comes to the ketubah signing. I recommend:

• Lavalier mics on the rabbi and at least one of the couple. Since they’re close together, a single mic on one partner can usually pick up both voices, but micing both ensures the best quality.

• A handheld mic to pass around for family members who may want to say something meaningful. This makes post-production easier when incorporating heartfelt moments into the wedding film.

3. Be Mindful of Space and Angles

Because the ketubah signing happens in a small room, positioning is everything. I place my stationary camera in a corner to get a full view of the table while keeping my moving camera at an angle that allows for quick reaction shots. Avoid blocking the photographer’s view—communicating with them before the signing starts ensures you both get the best shots without interfering with each other.

4. Capture the Details

Some of the most beautiful moments in a ketubah signing come from the small details:

• The intricate artwork and text of the ketubah itself.

• The couple’s hands as they sign the document.

• Emotional exchanges between family members.

• The rabbi’s expressions as they guide the couple through the tradition.

B-roll of these elements enhances the storytelling aspect of the final film.

5. Anticipate Key Moments

Unlike the ceremony, a ketubah signing doesn’t follow a rigid format, so being prepared for spontaneous moments is crucial. Pay close attention to the rabbi’s pacing and cues—these will signal when an important exchange is about to happen, ensuring you’re ready to capture the moment.

6. Edit Thoughtfully to Weave the Story Together

In post-production, I blend footage from both cameras to create a seamless flow between wide-angle coverage and close-up reactions. I incorporate soft, natural transitions that match the solemn yet celebratory mood of the signing.

Watch a Real Ketubah Signing Film

To see these techniques in action, check out Ariel and Jason’s Ketubah Signing & Ceremony Film at Perona Farms. This beautiful venue provided the perfect setting for their wedding day, and I was honored to document such an important moment in their journey.

See the Full Wedding Film

For a highlight reel that incorporates footage from their ketubah signing into the full wedding day story, watch Ariel and Jason’s Highlight Film.

Considering Perona Farms for Your Wedding?

If you're planning a wedding at Perona Farms and want a videographer who understands the significance of Jewish traditions like the ketubah signing, I’d love to document your day.

[Fill out the contact form below] to inquire about availability and package options!

3 Planning Tips to Keep in Mind When Planning a Fall Wedding

Picture this: The crisp autumn air fills the venue as golden leaves gently fall, creating a natural backdrop you didn’t even need to plan for. Your guests are sipping warm cider, wrapped in soft blankets provided to keep them cozy. As the sun sets earlier than you expected, casting a warm, golden glow over everything, you and your partner share a moment that feels straight out of a storybook.

This is the magic of a fall wedding—but behind every seamless detail is careful planning to make sure the day lives up to your dreams. If you're planning an autumn wedding, here are three important tips to keep in mind to ensure your big day is as beautiful as the season itself.

1. Plan Around the Weather (But Don’t Stress!)

One of the most charming aspects of fall is its unpredictability—one day can be sunny and perfect, while the next could bring a surprise chill or even a drizzle. Fall weddings require a little extra flexibility, but trust me, it’s worth it for the beautiful moments this season provides.

To avoid any last-minute stress, plan for all weather conditions. If you’re having an outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, have a tent or backup indoor space just in case. Also, consider offering thoughtful touches like cozy blankets or outdoor heaters for your guests as the temperature cools in the evening. Not only will this keep everyone comfortable, but it will also add to the intimate, cozy feel that makes fall weddings so special.

Pro tip: Check your wedding date's sunset time. Fall days are shorter, and the earlier sunset means you’ll need to plan your ceremony and photography schedule accordingly to capture those dreamy golden-hour moments.

2. Embrace the Seasonal Decor

Fall comes with its own natural decor, making it easier to create a beautiful wedding with less effort. The rich colors and textures of the season—deep burgundy, mustard yellow, burnt orange, and forest green—can set the tone for your wedding without feeling overly themed.

Consider incorporating these colors into your florals, bridesmaid dresses, and even your table settings. Seasonal blooms like dahlias, mums, and sunflowers can give your arrangements that perfect autumn touch, and you can elevate the look with subtle accents like dried pampas grass or eucalyptus. You could also take advantage of the harvest season by decorating your tables with gourds, pumpkins, or rich wooden elements.

Want something more sophisticated? Mix in metallics like copper or gold, or add velvet accents to your seating or tablescapes. These elegant details complement the fall aesthetic while adding a luxe, polished feel.

3. Mind the Seasonal Menu

One of the best parts of a fall wedding is the opportunity to craft a menu that reflects the cozy, comforting flavors of the season. Think about adding warm, inviting options that will keep your guests satisfied and in the fall spirit.

Comfort foods like roasted root vegetables, butternut squash soup, or even a gourmet mac and cheese bar are sure to be crowd-pleasers. For dessert, why not offer fall-inspired sweets like mini apple pies, pumpkin spice cupcakes, or even a s’mores station for that nostalgic, fireside vibe?

Don’t forget the drinks! A signature fall cocktail, like spiced cider or a maple bourbon old-fashioned, can be a fun addition and bring your seasonal theme to life. Your guests will appreciate these thoughtful touches and remember your wedding as the perfect blend of taste and comfort.

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Why Fall Weddings Are So Special

Fall weddings are truly unique. The season brings its own charm, with changing leaves, earlier sunsets, and a sense of warmth and togetherness. By keeping the weather, decor, and menu in mind, you can create a wedding day that embraces everything beautiful about autumn.

Whether it’s the cozy atmosphere, the rich colors, or the cool breeze, fall weddings are a personal favorite of mine to photograph and film. There’s something about this season that brings out the best in love stories, and I’m here to capture every moment.

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Planning your fall wedding? I’d love to help bring your autumn wedding vision to life. Fill out the Contact Me form below, and let’s chat about how I can capture the magic of your day through beautiful photos and videos.

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