Cinematic Dance Video Filming in Wilmslow by Filmorite

Project Highlights

• Client: Dyani Lababedi.

• Location: The Colony HQ, Altrincham Road, Wilmslow SK9 4LY.

• Equipment: Sony FX3 16-35 mm G-Master lens, Atomos Ninja V monitor recorder, LED panels, Godox 400B, spotlights.

• Lighting approach: One large LED key light, two backlights, one spotlight with a projector, and one spotlight as a hair light.

• Session time: 4 hours + 1 hour 10 min for setup.

• Deliverables: Cinematic dance performance video with a mix of tripod and gimbal shots.

Behind the Scenes Story

The project began with two planning calls where we discussed the vibe of the video, reviewed Dyani’s reference clips and explored possible locations. Before filming day, Dyani recorded her choreography on her own, and we had another call of about forty minutes to go through all the details.

At The Colony HQ in Wilmslow, we arrived early and spent about one hour and ten minutes setting up the camera and lighting. The space had enough room for movement but was slightly dark, so we used a combination of LED panels, a strong Godox 400B and two additional spotlights to shape the dancers and separate them from the background.

We started by filming the entire choreography on a tripod using the Sony FX3 and a wide G Master lens. The routine was divided into four parts, so we filmed several takes of each section. After every few takes, the dancers reviewed the footage on the Atomos Ninja V. This allowed them to spot small details and make adjustments before recording again.

Once we had the stable tripod shots, we moved to dynamic gimbal filming. This added many more creative angles and gave the choreography a more immersive feel. The combination of both filming methods is what makes dance videos feel complete, so we always recommend capturing both styles.

Across the 4-hour performance window, we filmed many takes, refined movement timing and adjusted lighting to match the energy of each section. The final result is a clean and expressive dance video with firm structure and visually rich movement.

Service Locations

We provide filming and editing across Manchester and the wider Greater Manchester area, including
Manchester, Salford, MediaCity, Trafford, Stockport, Bolton, Bury, Rochdale, Oldham, Wigan and Tameside.
We also work in high-demand creative locations such as Wilmslow, Altrincham, Hale, Sale, Didsbury, Chorlton, Cheadle, Cheadle Hulme, Prestwich, Whitefield, Worsley, Monton, Urmston, Stretford, Eccles, Swinton, Walkden and Middleton.

Q and A for Dance Video Projects

How many dancers can be filmed in one session?

There is no real limit. The only challenge is space and lighting. When dancers move deeper into the stage, we often need higher F-stops, which require stronger lighting. On a stage or outdoors, this is easy to manage. If your location is darker, we can bring the right lights.

Can you help me choose the right location for my dance video?

Yes. Location is a major part of the visual style. We can suggest places we have worked at before or help you browse booking platforms to find something that fits your idea and budget. Sometimes the best solution is a creative outdoor spot like a skate park or an urban structure.

Do you provide creative guidance or help with developing the visual style?

Yes. We work with your references, ideas and personal style to build a clear visual direction in pre-production. A strong plan gives a predictable and polished final result.

What do I need to prepare before the filming day?

Have your choreography ready, choose the location and make sure you have music permission if needed.
If children are involved, we require parent permission for filming and portfolio use.
A 50% deposit is needed to secure the date.

How long does a dance video filming session usually take?

Plan at least half a day. This allows us to film wide takes, close details, multiple angles and additional portrait format clips for TikTok or Instagram.

Do you film both static tripod shots and gimbal shots?

Yes. Tripod shots give stability, gimbal shots bring movement and energy. If the location allows, we can also add drone shots.

Can we review takes during the session?

Yes. We bring a screen so you can review the footage as you go. It helps with refining your performance and guarantees strong final results.

What lighting setup do you use?

Lighting depends on the location and the style you want. We have a full set of LED panels and spotlights. If the place needs extra lighting, we bring what is required to achieve a clean cinematic look.

Can you film in darker locations?

Yes. The Sony FX3 handles low light extremely well, and with controlled lighting, we can create a very polished look. Darker rooms can even be an advantage because we can shape the light exactly how we want.

Do you provide editing, colour grading and sound syncing?

Yes. Filmorite Ltd has three in-house editors who handle all editing, syncing, grading and movement enhancement.

Can you create versions for TikTok or Instagram?

Yes. If time allows, we film additional portrait-format clips and use a 360 camera to capture behind-the-scenes moments, which often perform very well on social media.

How many final angles or cuts can I expect?

We film as many takes and angles as needed to achieve your vision. The goal is a strong, cohesive performance rather than a large number of cuts.

Do you help with music licensing?

Yes. You can bring your own licensed track or choose a song from our Envato Elements library. For commercial songs, you will need permission before posting.

Can you film dance videos in Wilmslow, Altrincham, Manchester and the rest of Greater Manchester?

Yes. We cover Greater Manchester with no travel fees. We also travel across the UK for dance projects and apply only a small travel fee for long-distance locations.

What should dancers wear?

Avoid square patterns or strong line-based designs. Solid colours and simple styles usually look more polished. Wardrobe also depends on your choreography and vibe, and we can discuss this during planning.

How many takes do you usually film for each part?

At least four takes, sometimes more. The more dancers involved, the more takes we need to keep spacing and timing perfect.

How soon can I get the final edited video?

The first version is usually delivered within two or three business days. With fast feedback, the final version is often ready within five days. If you want to choose your favourite takes first, editing begins once you send your selection.

Do you provide behind-the-scenes shots or still images?

Yes. We film BTS with a 360 camera and can take extra still photos for thumbnails or social media. This is a complimentary service.

What room size is recommended for filming a dance video?

Larger spaces work better. Think of a normal performance stage, then add two to five meters in front for the camera. High ceilings also help with open, cinematic shots. If you are not sure, we can check your space during the planning call.

Can you film a dance performance on a theatre stage?

Yes. We regularly film stage-based dance shows, school performances and academy concerts. Theatre stages are often well-lit and designed for movement, which makes them ideal for clean, high-quality filming. We bring the equipment needed to capture the show exactly as it appears for the audience.

Do you offer multi-camera filming for dance concerts and end-of-year shows?

Yes. Multi-camera filming is the recommended approach for stage performances.
We can set up two or three cameras to capture. This creates a polished result that looks far more dynamic than a single static recording.

Can you provide a full show recording and individual dance clips?

Yes. Many dance schools prefer to have both.
We can deliver the full concert from start to finish and also separate each performance into individual clips so parents and students can easily download and share specific routines.

Can you film dress rehearsals as well as the final show?

Yes. Some studios prefer filming the dress rehearsal because dancers are more relaxed and the space is less crowded. We can also film the final performance or both, depending on what you need.

Do you bring your own lighting for stage-based shows?

Theatre stages usually have their own lighting setup, but if the venue has darker spots or uneven lighting, we can add our own LED panels to enhance clarity, colour and detail.
We always test the lighting before the show begins to ensure everything looks consistent.

Can you handle audio recording for dance concerts?

Yes. We can record audio directly from the desk when the venue provides access or capture clean backup sound through our own equipment. We always sync music in post-production to ensure the final audio is crisp.