Heinz Chapel Wedding Videography Rules You Must Know
Heinz Chapel is a STUNNING ceremony location in downtown Oakland. It is iconic for all University of Pittsburgh students, but welcomes anyone getting married to be wed inside. It is LGBTQ+ friendly!
But, you might be wondering, “Can I have a videographer at a Heinz Chapel ceremony?”. TLDR: YES!
There are some restrictions, as with any church, but it is one of my favorites to film in because they are fairly unrestrictive.
They have side aisles that make it very simple and unobstructive for videographers to get around throughout the ceremony. During the processional, they can stand at the end of the aisle (before the alter) to capture everyone coming down the aisle.
There is also a balcony that videographers can access to place a tripod camera, ensuring a beautiful wide angle to capture the grand architecture but still seeing the alter and couple.
Things to keep in mind
Low Lighting & No external lights
If you are talking with a videographer, be sure to ask them if they are able to handle the low light setting of Heinz Chapel. You want to be sure they can capture the dramatic, deep shadows, and stunning stained glass. Since external lighting is now allowed, they must ensure their equipment is able to film everything without the shadows being grainy or extremely dark.
Audio at Heinz Chapel
Because of the soaring ceilings, audio can echo significantly. M20 Media usually will place a tiny, hidden lapel microphone on at least one member of the couple, but ideally both (especially if you are doing personal vows during the ceremony) and the officiant. Also be sure your videographer has an audio recorder that can be placed on the lectern if you will have any readings or live singers/musicians. If the officiant is using the in house audio system, there is a place for videographers to plug a recorder in to capture that as a backup, but it’s not always accessible so it shouldn’t be relied on.
Check out some of the screenshots below from a Heinz Chapel wedding ceremony film. It also makes a beautiful background for some portraits, especially the iconic red doors!
Are you looking for a videographer that has shot at some historic Pittsburgh wedding venues before? I know how to navigate the rules of local spaces while still getting jaw-dropping footage! All packages with M20 Media include a full ceremony film, so if that is important for you, inquire here!
