Video Recording
BackgroundGenerally video requires more careful setup of the initial setting than photography. One of the reasons is there is less information to work with when editing video; photos will a have much higher resolution, so is it easier to crop and resize. The other reason that video is more difficult is that it is more time consuming and difficult to test exposure and focus with video test shots. That means it is vital to get it right the first time. Before starting a video shoot; check audio levels, light, exposure, whitebalance, focus, and the field of view.
Angle Variety You can never have enough video footage. Take more than you think you will need. For instance, try super closeups, mid shots, wide angle views, etc. Try to step outside the box, focus on people's hands, their feet, facial expressions, etc. These types of shots can really make the "lean forward" moments come to life. Always have one eye on the editorial process while capturing video. Before beginning, think about the desired tone and texture that will match with the story. That choice will impact where and how the video recording will take place.
Frame RateGenerally it is best to shoot at 30 frames per second (30p) - a good default setting. 24P results is a more film like feel.
For doing slow motion a higher frame rate works better (e.g. 60 fps). This will result in smoother motion but on some cameras you may have to drop the resolution in order to do this. |
PurposeCapturing good video and audio is crucial to effective video story telling.
Video Formats:
There are three or four main formats for video which can be selected within most cameras. These formats not only specify the aspect ratio but the resolution of the video:
1080p is a popular format because that results in more options. For instance, with that format there is the option of downsampling to 720p when posting to the Internet. Remember the rule to never up scale a bitmapped image, that results in a muddy look because of the extrapolation that the computer does to increase the number of pixels - so it would be a bad idea to go from 720p to 1080p. Capturing Good AudioCapturing good sound will make the video editing easier and the message more compelling. Viewers don't have the patience to listen to poor audio. See the following section for more information on this:
Further StudyExplore the following sections to find out more about Video editing:
LightingTechniquesCamera CraftTypes of shotsInterviews |
References
Hollyn, Norman. (2013) Foundations of video: The art of editing, Lyda.com.