How far would you go to shoot the perfect destination wedding video?
We often find ourselves in pursuit of the extraordinary, and this particular job was no exception. Our task was to capture the beauty and atmosphere of the exotic city of Marrakesh, Morocco, and create a stunning wedding video for our clients - Chris and Maria.
What brought us to Marrakesh?
Having recently been married in the picturesque town of Parga, Greece, the couple wanted to commemorate their special day with a unique post-wedding video shoot. We were more than happy to oblige, and booked our plane tickets and packed our bags with great anticipation.
Marrakesh is an incredible destination for travelers looking to explore the culture and beauty of North Africa. From the bustling markets to its vibrant atmosphere, this Moroccan city is a must-see for any visitor from Europe. We were thrilled with the challenge of creating a stunning wedding video that would capture the essence of the city and the couple's special day.
Destination Wedding Shooting - Day 1
Upon arrival, we were immediately immersed in the culture of the locals. Everywhere we looked, we were surrounded by the art, music, and literature that define the city. Food was shared on the streets, traditional clothing was sewn and sold ubiquitously, and we could literally feel the warm tones of the city around us as we walked through a literal maze of alleyways. The couple decided to roam the streets of Marrakesh right at sunset allowing our cameras to capture the sun's rays falling through the tall buildings and illuminating their faces. Despite the many passersby, the children playing chase around us, and the loud noises from the Agora interrupting the couple's heartwarming moments in front of the camera, we managed to get the right shots to create the perfect post-wedding film.
Destination Wedding Shooting - Day 2
On our second day in Marrakesh, the closest desert was on the agenda. The sky was a beautiful clear blue, and the sand and dust added an extra layer of texture to the breathtaking expanse. The dunes were mesmerizing and it was a pleasure to be able to experience this stunning environment. A truly unique setting to observe.
Chris and Maria donned their traditional clothing, purchased the day before, and began walking hand in hand over the hills. The highlight of our shoot was the presence of the camels, which added a natural yet unique element to the result. With its breathtaking scenery and unique wildlife, a day in the desert was certainly an unforgettable experience. Unfortunately, that was our last day of shooting, and we endeavored to make the most of it. We were determined to capture every last ray of light in order to complete our shoot and bring the day to a close.
Some tips & tricks.
The availability of water is scarce and the water that is available is not suitable for drinking or even brushing your teeth. Therefore, it is recommended that upon arrival in the city, you immediately trace a local market and purchase an adequate supply of bottled water to last the duration of your stay.
The best time to visit Marrakesh is during the months of January through March when the weather is ideal for a light jacket and some warm pants. During the day, no extra layers are necessary, but at night a scarf and some boots may be needed to keep warm. It is almost advised to avoid the summer months, as temperatures can reach an unbearable 55 degrees Celsius.
Furthermore, many of the hotels, AirBnBs, and motels in the area lack air-conditioning and refrigeration, so it is important to be aware of the weather conditions if you are planning to visit during a warmer season.
When it comes to mobile service, it is not easy to come by. It is advisable to pay for an internet program to ensure that you are able to stay connected and not get lost, as you will need to use maps to get around. Be sure to check that the place you are staying has Wi-Fi before you arrive.
When the night falls, the city becomes cold and grown-ups & children are confined to their homes. It is prudent to avoid walking alone at night as it is not particularly safe. You can easily become disoriented and there are often groups of young people roaming the streets that could potentially be hazardous, especially if you are carrying expensive equipment such as cameras, as we were for our work.
Final thoughts.
Overall, Marrakesh is an absolute must-see destination for any traveler seeking a little bit of spice in their life. Not only is a great place to experience the culture and history of the city, but it is also an excellent destination for professional photographers and videographers. The city is filled with vibrant colors, stunning architecture, and beautiful faces, offering an infinite number of opportunities to capture stunning photos and videos for an iconic portfolio. Marrakesh is a destination like no other and should not be missed by any traveler.
Marrakesh, check. Off to the next destination wedding project.
Make sure to watch Chris & Maria's wedding highlights on our Instagram page!
Respect.... you're great.....