Helpful Hints on How
to Capture Great Video
·
Always use a tripod!
There's nothing worse than shaky video. You can manipulate the angle
and adjust the height so that the subject is always where you want them to
be. If you don't have a tripod, simply use a chair, table or floor
with a book underneath. Keeping the camera still is key to recording
great video
·
Make sure that there's
plenty of light in the room. If your camera has a light, use it!
Some cameras have a setting where you can adjust the back light or
automatically switch to "night alive." Avoid any glare from windows
or other light sources. Familiarize yourself with your manual for
any extra tips on shooting with your specific camera as all are not alike.
·
Scenes should be
approximately one to two minutes in length unless there is a lot of action
going on. For instance, if you tape your child drinking a bottle for
6 minutes, you'll have wasted tape on activity with no change. On
the other hand, if there is a lot of activity, say more than a few
children playing in a circle, a longer period of time for taping may be
required.
·
Stimulate the subject
with different activities, talk, laugh, sing, but don't force them to do
something they don't want to do. Be patient, natural reactions are
the best shots.
·
Don't zoom constantly or
quickly. Press the record button, tape for a minute or two, zoom in
a few feet closer and film again. The next zoom should be the close
up. Hold the shot for a minute. Varying distances of the same
subject matter make excellent overlays for special effects.
·
Invite friends and
relatives into the video.
·
Be conscience of the
background. Don't record in the same room or focus on the same spot
each time you record. Look for different places to shoot video; the
park, the mall, grandma's house, etc.
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