Alex & Lori's Ethereal Topanga Wedding: A 16mm Film Analog Video Masterpiece
- Casey Pflipsen

- Mar 30
- 3 min read
The Ultimate Compliment: Filmmakers for Filmmakers
When Alex and Lori reached out to Ring Theory Films, my heart skipped a beat. Alex and Lori are both incredibly talented filmmakers themselves. For a wedding videographer, there is perhaps no greater honor than being entrusted by other visual storytellers to capture their most significant day.
I immediately knew this collaboration would be special. They might be one of the sweetest, most wholesome couples I have ever met, and their shared artistic language made working together a dream. Knowing that they trusted my eye and my perspective was a profound compliment that fuelled the entire process.
A Commitment to LGBTQ+ Love
As a proud gay wedding filmmaker, it is my mission to create a space where fellow LGBTQ+ couples feel entirely safe, seen, and celebrated. My goal is never to impose a rigid structure but to authentically reflect the unique dynamics of each relationship. Working with fellow queer couples like Alex and Lori, who value authenticity above all else, is the heartbeat of my business. We created an environment of mutual understanding, allowing their true joy to shine through.
The Magic of 16mm Kodak Film: An Editorial Aesthetic
Alex and Lori had a very clear vision for their wedding film: they wanted it shot 100% on 16mm Kodak film. This is my absolute favorite medium. I am deeply passionate about the raw, textured, and nostalgic quality that analog wedding films provide. While digital captures the moment, 16mm film captures the feeling.
The grain, the organic color palette, and the timeless aesthetic of Super 16mm wedding videography were the perfect fit for the ethereal, bohemian vibe of their Topanga location. This choice transformed their wedding video from a simple recording into a textured, editorial style wedding film.
Embracing the "Fly on the Wall": Documentary Style Filmmaking
The wedding took place at the enchanting Inn of the Seventh Ray in Topanga, California. Since I have filmed at this stunning Topanga wedding venue before, I already knew all the hidden corners and ideal locations for light and composition. However, because Alex and Lori were so effortless together, I really didn’t need to rely on posing.
I fully embraced my preferred role as a documentary wedding filmmaker. My approach was that of a "fly on the wall," observing and capturing the day as it naturally unfolded. There were no forced moments, just raw, candid interaction. By remaining present but unobtrusive, I was able to film the subtle looks, the genuine laughter, and the quiet intimacy that defined their day.
A Beautiful Ceremony and a Stunning Collaborative Team
The ceremony itself was incredibly moving. Officiated by Buddhist chaplain Joseph Rodgers, it included a perfect hand-fasting ritual that felt incredibly grounded and personal. The beautiful synergy of the day was made possible by working alongside an incredible team of vendors. I had the pleasure of collaborating with the following creatives to bring Alex and Lori's day to life:
Photography: The Shalom Imaginative
Venue, Catering, & Dessert: Inn of the Seventh Ray
Dresses: Lorien Bridal & Folklore Dress Studio
Florist: Karla McTiernan / Well Crafted Flowers
Coordinator: Salt & Sparrow
DJs: Midnite Disco
Officiant: Joseph Rodgers
Find Your Wedding Film with Ring Theory Films
A massive thank you again to Alex and Lori for trusting me and Ring Theory Films to capture your wedding. It was truly an honor.
If you are looking for a Los Angeles wedding videographer who specializes in documentary style filmmaking, Super 8mm wedding films, and 16mm analog cinematography, I would love to connect with you. I am also a travel wedding filmmaker ready to document your love story near, far, or across the globe.
Explore more of my work at www.ringtheoryfilms.com and follow me on Instagram @ringtheoryfilms. Let’s create something timeless.


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