Keep the wish, not just the candles

The story worth telling

The cake is familiar. The whispered wish, the homemade card and the person arriving late are what make the film yours. Give one of those details a little space rather than cutting every clip to the same length.

Three things to capture

1. A preparation detail
2. The birthday moment with real voices
3. A quiet moment after the celebration

Let the camera run a little before and after each action. Those extra seconds give you room to find a better cut.

Give the edit a shape

Before you share it

Check that everyone shown is comfortable with the intended audience. Keep private invitations and addresses out of frame.