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Making Quality Videos
Top Tips for Video-Makers
An Illustrated Guide
Shots are the building blocks of a film - just like pieces of a jigsaw. Remember: you're telling stories in pictures. Your viewers will only be interested if they're clear about what`s going on. Here are the shots we used in the “Teasing The Gardener” video:
| Shot | Scene | Description |
|---|---|---|
| WIDE SHOT |  |
A wide shot sets the scene. A gardener is watering his plants. |
| LOW ANGLE |  |
This angle lets us see him more closely. The flowers and water in the foreground give depth to the shot and create a 3-D effect. |
| POINT OF VIEW |  |
This 'point of view' shot adds tension. Who is spying on him? |
| CLOSE UP |  |
Shows us that the gardener is completely unaware that he`s being watched. See how the shots are telling the story? |
| MEDIUM LONG SHOT |  |
Time to reveal a little stalker creeping out of the bushes. |
| TRACKING SHOT |  |
Tracking is when the camera moves with the subject.
This movement adds an extra dynamic to the action
and makes you wonder what's going to happen next. |
| MEDIUM CLOSE UP |  |
Close-ups are important for showing facial expression. What is he up to? |
| CLOSE UP |  |
Get enough shots to give the audience all the information it needs to follow what is going on. |
| BIG CLOSE UP |  |
Big close-ups emphasise key points and add pace and variety to your film. |
| MEDIUM LONG SHOT |  |
Registers the gardener's surprise. |
| MEDIUM CLOSE UP |  |
Captures his puzzled expression. |
| MEDIUM CLOSE UP |  |
We're getting towards the punchline now. |
| MEDIUM CLOSE UP |  |
…Hey presto! A very soggy gardener! |
Other Types Of Shots
| Shot | Scene | Description |
|---|---|---|
| HIGH ANGLE |  |
Makes the subject look vulnerable and scared. |
| LOW ANGLE |  |
Makes the subject look powerful and scary. |
| DUTCH ANGLES |  |
Tilting the camera on its side – effective in funky music videos. |
| REMEMBER! |  |
Hold the camera steady. For certain shots(e.g. when you`re zoomed in very close or executing a tricky camera movement) it`s a good idea to use a tripod. |
| REMEMBER! |  |
Move the camera smoothly when you`re panning across a scene or following action. |
| REMEMBER! |  |
The further you zoom in, the harder it is to keep the shot steady. |
| REMEMBER! |  |
If you zoom out and move closer to the subject, your shot will be steadier and the microphone will pick up the sound better. |
Top Tips for Shooting Documentaries and News Stories
Good research is essential. It will help you decide how to tell your story.
Choose the right people to interview.
Keep your story simple and plan how to structure it.
Think of shots and sequences that will set the scene and illustrate the subject.
Make sure your film has a really good beginning. Draw the viewer in.
Give it a really good ending, too!
Make the story visually interesting.
Get steady, well-composed shots of the people and places in your story.
The interviewer should stand close to the camera so that the subject is full-face.
Remember to get the microphone close to the subject for clearer sound.
Try to film your presenter and interviewees against interesting backgrounds.
Final Tip
Good filming is safe filming. Never take unnecessary risks. Think about hazards such as shooting from high places or near busy roads. Be aware of what`s happening around you – even when you`re glued to the viewfinder!
Final, Final Tip
Movie making is fun. Don`t forget to enjoy it!
Next: Editing