How to: Groom Shaving Mirror Shot

So if you’re thinking of stepping out of the standard mirror shot when the groom is shaving, try to find some other elements to add to the scene. I found a smaller mirror and use it to add a little bit of interest to the scene. I positioned the groom between the two mirrors so that I could see his reflection in both mirrors. Though much of the centre of the frame is just the back of his head and shoulders, the focus becomes on his reflection(s).

I used off-camera flash with the Magmod system to emphasize his face and features. I could have easily used the ambient light, but it wouldn’t have been as dramatic… and you know me… I like drama 🙂

Oliver was holding the flash to camera left and out of frame. We gelled the flash with a half CTO MagGel and used the MagGrid (my favourite thing ever) to narrow down the spread of light so that it hits mostly the Groom’s face.

What’s really cool is that you get two types of lighting patterns on his face. The left reflection is a broad light pattern and the right is short light (almost rim light) pattern.

Try adding interesting elements to your shots next time you are facing a … mirror.