Video Camera Course

Video Camera Course - Week 7

Pre-Production Planning
Camera work is only one skill in a larger process -- the goal of which is usually to produce a completed video, TV program, or presentation of some kind. To be good at camera work, you must have a clear picture of the whole process, and some idea of what the finished product should look & sound like.
What exactly will the video be used for? Who is the intended audience? How long should it be? What are the important things to include, what can you live without, and what will bore your audience to sleep?
Plan the approximate length of the shoot: How much footage do you wish to end up with, and how long will it take you to get it? Have a checklist of equipment, which could include: camera; tripod; tapes; batteries/power supply; microphones and audio equipment; lights and stands; pens, log sheets and other paper work.

Example Plan - Hunter Ambulance Service

No.	Time	Description of Shot
A	15 secs	Introduction using fast cuts between scenes from a call-out and a close up of a flashing light, overlaid with graphics and fast paced music.
B	30	Presenter introduces the Service, including details on their history and their vital role within the community.
C	60	An opening statement from a crew member, to include their preparations, training and roll call, (a general introduction to their work).
D	30	Presenter gives statistics and intro to call-outs.
E	120	A crew attending a call-out, with v/o from crew on their thoughts during such events.
F	30	Wrap up from a senior officer or crew member.
G	30	Closing statement from presenter, with a one liner from a crew member.
H	15	End credits with music and graphics overlaid scenes from the call-out, or over close up of flashing light.

StoryBoarding Storyboards help to convey not only the order of the shots, but how they will look on screen, so that actors know where the edge of the shot is, cameramen know how to frame the shot and sound crew know what visuals are going with what sound effects.

Shooting Schedule

Once you are nearer the point of filming you will be able to block out when you want to film and what scenes they will be. Provide all your crew with a shooting schedule, changes can be made to the call sheets they should get regularly.