Shooting Video

While simple video like happy birthday singing and blowing out candles can be managed in a single shot, longer videos need careful consideration.

To make a serious video is more like making a real movie.

  • The storyline is converted into a 'shot list' or 'storyboard' which is a series of sketches of each shot with any notes needed.
  • The shot list helps with planning so that all shots at a venue are taken at the same time if possible. (eg getting on the bus can be shot followed by getting off the bus, even if these two shots are at the beginning and end of the story. Editing will ensure the correct sequence)
  • Shooting should be done in the most efficient manner which is not necessarily in the story order.
  • Shooting may need multiple attempts to get the action properly recorded or from multiple angles.
  • Run the camera for a few seconds before and after the action to be shot to ensure that editing can capture the needed section easily.
  • Recording voice at the time of shooting is helpful for dialogue between people but narration and sounds can be recorded and added later during editing.
  • Allow the camera operator to create a 'B Roll' which can be the source of filler material that was not planned in the storyboard but which can help continuity during editing.
  • Take the opportunities to shoot unplanned material that may appear by chance

Technique also helps to get quality video:

  • Good focus including use of 'rack focus'
  • Good composition and lighting to make scenes interesting
  • A stable camera all the time. Use a tripod or gymbals.
  • Excellent microphone and perhaps a separate recorder
  • Power zoom lens that is quiet (so it is not picked up by the microphone)
  • Check white balance for every shot before starting the action
  • 'Dry run' every shoot so that it is established that the camera records all the needed action (limits of zoom lens, reflected lights, background, distractions.

There is also another aspect that must be mentioned. Video has a variety of standards. This is not about image quality like Standard Definition vs HD or 4K. Video files have a wide variety of file formats and it is important that your video camera, editing software and playback software are all compatible with the video files you want to use.

Finally, here is a little more detail with links to more advanced techniques
Video Tips

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