What is a pre-ceremony wedding film? When, how long and what to show

In Korea, a pre-ceremony film (식전영상) plays on the venue screen while guests arrive and take their seats before the wedding begins. Most couples tell their story in photos, from childhood through dating to the wedding shoot, so it is also called a "growing-up film".

When does it play?

Usually from 10–15 minutes before the ceremony. Guests are arriving, handing in gifts and finding seats, so they naturally watch the screen. Some venues loop the film, others play it once right before the start, so check with your venue coordinator.

How long should it be?

Around three minutes works best. Shorter and the photos fly by; longer than five minutes and guests lose interest. At four to five seconds per photo, 30–50 photos make about three minutes.

How is it structured?

The most common flow is chronological:

1. Opening: both names and the wedding date
2. Groom's childhood: baby photos, first birthday, school years
3. Bride's childhood: the same order
4. Dating: from the day you met to trips and anniversaries
5. Wedding shoot: studio and outdoor photos
6. Ending: a thank-you and wedding details

Giving both childhoods a similar length keeps guests from both families happy. Many couples end with a short "Thank you for coming."

When should we start?

Four to six weeks before the wedding gives you room to breathe.

• 6 weeks before: ask both families for childhood photos (photograph album prints straight on with a phone)
• 4 weeks before: choose and order photos, decide on the text
• 2 weeks before: finish the film, show family and adjust
• 1 week before: give the file to the venue and test playback

Ways to make one

You can edit it yourself, hire a studio, or use a self-service tool where you upload photos and the film is made for you. We compare cost and time in How to make a pre-ceremony film.