Principles+of+Videography


 * 1. The principle of invisibility- ** The cameraperson should be invisible to the viewer. Anything that draws attention to camera technique distracts from the subject of the video. Subtlety is the key to good camera work.

** 2. The principle of steadiness ** -The camera should not move or shake during shooting. Use a tripod and don’t zoom in too far. Pans, tilts, and zooms should be kept to a minimum. Use camera movement only if you have a reason to use camera movement.

** 3. The principle of timelessness- ** Under no circumstances should the date and/or time ever appear on your footage. If it does, shoot the footage over. It looks amateurish and will not be tolerated.

** 4. The principle of point of view ** - Most of the time we see the world from a height of between five and six feet. The camera is not limited to this perspective, however, and it is frequently a good thing to take advantage of this portability to give the viewer a chance to see your subject from a slightly different point of view. Perhaps you could shoot from above your subject or perhaps a view from the ground up would give your subject an imposing presence. In any event it is important to note that no shot is worth risking your personal safety or that of your classmates. When you’re seeking that unusual perspective make sure that you’re not doing anything dangerous to get it.

** 5. The principle of visual interest- ** Some things are visually interesting others are not. Among the things that are not are the halls and stairwells of TJ, and most institutional indoor settings. Shooting footage outdoors is almost always preferable to shooting indoors. Shooting in colorful surroundings is almost always preferable to shooting where there are only dull grays and browns. Shooting movement is almost always preferable to shooting static objects.

** 6. The principle of sound quality- ** For most of the work that you do here you will be using the built in microphones on the camcorders. These mics have a very limited range. If you want your subjects to be heard you’ll have to be close to them. Pay attention to background noise. A passing car can ruin an interview, so can the bells at TJ. If it gets messed up, even if it’s not your fault, reshoot the footage.

** 7. Principle of lighting- ** Light is the raw material you are using to make your video. Avoid light sources behind your subject (backlighting). Be aware of tonal contrasts, especially when shooting faces.

** 8. The principle of professionalism- ** Anyone can make home video. We want to move away from that toward more professional video productions. As you work with the camera think about the differences between home video and professional video. How would a pro handle the assignment you’re working on? Try to emulate those who do it well. Be fair in what you record and in how you put it together. **Never use the camera to harass, annoy, or embarrass anyone**.

** 9. The principle of correct use- ** Don’t play with the equipment and don’t goof around when you’re using it. Keep track of it when it’s in your possession. It’s yours to use. Take care of it.

** 10. The principle of ownership- ** Put yourself into your work. Let each project be in some way a reflection of who you are. Be proud of what you can create. Try to make each project better than the last.