How to film a school Christmas concert or nativity

Why film it properly

A nativity or Christmas concert is one of the busiest days in the school year. Parents want to watch, but many cannot get time off work.

So a good film lets every family see it, including grandparents and relatives who live further away. It also saves a hall full of phones held in the air. Staff can then enjoy the performance, rather than worrying about recording it.

However, a phone at the back of the hall rarely does the day justice. The sound echoes, the view is blocked, and the best moments are missed.

Plan it before December

• Book early. December fills up fast, so agree your date as soon as you can.
• Share the running order. Send your filmmaker the timings, the songs and any solos in advance.
• Check consent. Confirm which pupils must not appear, so they can be kept out of shot.
• Arrange the room. Leave space for cameras at the side and back, away from fire exits.
• Check your licences. Some nativity scripts and songs need a licence before a recording is shared.

Cameras and sound

One camera at the back only shows the whole stage. A second camera closer in catches faces, actions and the small moments families love.

Our live performance filming uses multiple cameras to capture every angle. Then the edit cuts between them, so the film feels like a proper production.

Sound matters just as much as the picture. Clear singing and narration make the difference between a film people watch once and one they keep. So the cameras and microphones go in early, before the hall fills up.

Sharing it with families

Agree how the film will be shared before the day. A private link is the simplest way, because it never appears in public searches. Families can watch it on any phone, tablet or television, as often as they like.

Your school watches and approves the film before anyone else sees it. That way, you stay in control of what is shared and with whom.

Some schools also keep a short clip for their website or social media. That needs the right consent too, so check before posting.

Questions schools ask