I was thrilled. This was going to be my wedding present to her and her new husband ? who was going to be impressed by the creative talents of his new sister-in-law.

My video camera was in perfect working order. I made sure to have lots of extra battery power and plenty of videotape stock. A last minute sound check assured me that the hand-held microphone was working fine.

Videotaping went smoothly as I made sure to capture all the happy activities that neither the bride or groom would see on their wedding day: the bride and her bridesmaids getting ready?wedding guests arriving?the best man tying the groom's bow tie, and an impromptu and very funny interview with the Justice of the Peace who was officiating at the ceremony.

It was finally time for the big moment. The wedding was taking place in the expansive, beautifully lush backyard of my sister's home. I found the perfect spot to capture her walk down the aisle, making sure not to block the view of any of the seated guests. The entrance of the bridesmaids went off without a hitch.

As the music changed, signaling the start of my sister's momentous march toward her new life, I was suddenly overcome with emotion. I began to cry, and tremble uncontrollably. I couldn't hold the camera still. Yes?you read that right! I, the consummate video professional, was HOLDING the video camera. I made the monumental mistake of failing to use one of the most essential pieces of equipment any videographer should have ? a tripod.

It doesn't matter if you use a VHS camera, DV cam or film camera ? a tripod is one of the MOST IMPORTANT pieces of equipment that is used during the taping of a wedding. A tripod ensures that shots are STABLE, while providing CONTROLLED flexibility to perform simple zooms and pans.

Needless to say, my sister's big moment was ruined and she will never get that moment back. And even though she has forgiven me, her wedding video is a topic we avoid.

The moral of the story: Learn from my mistake. Videotaping an important event, such as a wedding, where you only get ONE CHANCE to get it right, means that you shouldn't forget the tripod.

Just ask my sister.