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How to survive shooting summer video

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Gretchen's Desktop Video Blog

From Staff Reports

buzz@hickoryrecord.com

Published: April 27, 2009

Hickory - 1. Know your video camera. Get an idea for where all the controls are and shoot some test footage before you try to record baby's first beach trip. Make sure to play back the video on a TV or computer screen so you have an idea for whether it looks darker on the screen than on the camera, how well audio sounds and other details.

2. Without lights, there's no action. You'll get the best results from shooting outside. Even if you think the kitchen is plenty bright for that birthday party, turn on all the lights in the room and try to get them close to your subject.

3. Use the eyepiece. That flip screen on the side of the camera doesn't give you a true idea about your video because of reflections and angle.

4. Hold that shot. Try keeping your camera still at least 10 seconds. It will seem like a long time but it will work better when you're watching or editing. A constantly moving camera makes for a motion-sickening video.

5. Sweat the small stuff. You don't want a tree sticking out of your darling daughter's head or an overflowing trash can in the background of the family reunion. Scan the whole scene carefully. It's likely to make you zoom in on your subject, which will make a better video in the long run.

Source: Gretchen Siegchrist, the founder and creative director of Media Shower Productions, a full-service videography company, at About.com.