The Best Handheld Smallrig For Weddings

Ditch the Heavy Gear! I Have the PERFECT Handheld Wedding Rig

If you’re all about getting the best shots with a compact rig, you’re in the right place. I’m Eric from Dolister Films, and in this blog post, I’ll break down every piece of my rig and how it helps me capture the tastiest wedding footage. I’m not diving too deep into the camera bodies and lenses (that’s a whole other video series), but let’s get into what makes this setup work so well for me!

The Camera: Nikon Z6II

I shoot most of my footage on the Nikon Z6II—a full-frame mirrorless camera that packs a punch while keeping things compact. Size is everything when you’re shooting handheld all day, and the Z6II offers just the right balance of power and portability. Paired with the Z-mount lenses, this camera delivers crisp, beautiful shots every time.

The Go-To Lens: 50mm f/1.8

For most of the day, I roll with the 50mm f/1.8. This lens gives me the flexibility I need to capture intimate moments without being too intrusive. It’s fast, it’s sharp, and it performs beautifully in low light (which is key for those late-night dance floor shots).

Second Shooter: 35mm f/1.8

While I’m shooting with the 50mm, my second shooter usually handles a 35mm f/1.8. This setup gives us a range of perspectives throughout the day. The wider angle is perfect for capturing group shots and wider scenes without losing any of the quality or storytelling.

Why It Works

The entire rig feels light and easy to handle, which makes a huge difference when you’re shooting handheld for hours. I’ve even used a 70-200mm lens for some longer-range shots, and while that adds a little more weight, it’s still comfortable for short bursts—like a 30-minute ceremony set.

Why I Love It

This setup is all about flexibility and speed. I can move between close-ups, medium shots, and wide shots without missing a beat. I never feel bogged down by heavy gear, and that means I’m able to stay focused on capturing authentic moments without worrying about fatigue.

If you’re a videographer looking to maximize your rig’s potential without sacrificing quality, this might be the setup for you. Stay tuned for future videos where I’ll dive deeper into the camera and lens choices!