June 19, 2011. Paul Hixon
credit: qthomasbowerMaking quality video recordings of special events may seem like a simple task to undertake, but there is a lot more complexity to the endeavor than many people realize. Handing over the filming of a wedding reception to Uncle Mike, or asking mom to capture a grandchild’s first visit to the zoo may seem like a good idea at the time, but actually produce footage that is very difficult to use.
Though most people have a strong appreciation for the work that a San Diego video production company does, few really understand the techniques and methods that make these companies so successful. Paying attention to the story line of a production and enjoying its plot is far different from watching the angles and shots used to tell the story. There are few people who are able to pay attention to both aspects of a film without a little training as to what the San Diego video production company is really doing. Being aware of some of the basic techniques these companies follow can bring a greater appreciation for the time and planning that goes into filming a single event. The first and most common mistake people make when filming is staying too far away from the subject of the scene.
As tempting as it is to think that the zoom lens on a camera is enough, do not be fooled into thinking this is a good substitute for getting close to the subject of the film. A good San Diego video production company knows that getting close to the subject brings a completely different angle to the shot than can be obtained with a zoom lens. In addition, the sound quality is much better if the camera is close to the subjects. Typically the mike on a camera will pick up sounds in all directions, even though those in front of the lens are most predominant. If a camera is too far away from the people being filmed, then it is more likely to get ambient noises such as the breathing of the camera operator or the sounds of traffic in the background instead of the voices of the subjects. A zoom lens will not help with this predicament and if at all possible, it is best to get close to the subjects being filmed in order to get the best angles and sound quality.
In addition to having good close up content, a San Diego video production company will also try and implement multiple perspectives of a single shot. This is frequently used in film productions and the movie Vantage Point has a plot line that is based entirely off of the perspectives of various characters who are all witnesses to a single event. It has become so natural for filming companies to use various perspectives that people are often unaware how many different angles they really see of a single scene. Not only does this add depth to the setting, but also makes it seem as if those watching are more of a part of the plot and action themselves because they are literally able to picture themselves in the middle of the shot. In conjunction with this more comprehensive view of the subjects, it is important to include more than just the main characters in the shot.
Though they are the focus of the action, incorporating background elements, cut-aways and other material can augment the plot by setting up future elements in the story and maintaining better audience interest. These tips may seem rather simple, but they actually take a lot of planning and skill to implement well. As tempting as it may be to ask a relative to take over the filming of a special event, the finished product of a production company is generally much better because of these aspects. Taking the time to practice and learn how to use these techniques can be very advantageous for creating better films that will actually be enjoyable and interesting to watch.
Updated June 19, 2011. Published June 6, 2011. Paul Hixon
