There are a lot of intricacies in the world of filming. There are entire degrees in specific areas. For example, in spite of the terms Videographer and Cinematographer being used as if they have the same meaning, a degree in Cinematography teaches how to achieve a look for a film. That means specifically lighting and coloring. Not holding a camera, sound, editing etc. Although, obviously some understanding of the entire filming process is necessary to bring a project together. I mean, how can someone expect to get lighting right at a professional level if she does not know how a particular kind of light will effect a specific camera setting. But, how much do you have to know in order to get your filming project done?

Cameras – What camera is best for the shoot?
There are a lot of options. Do you need 4k, 6k, 8k… is 1080 sufficient? Do you need a Go Pro? What is a Go Pro? A Go Pro is a camera specifically designed to shoot action scenes. It mounts on just about anything, can go underwater, and can capture that 4k – 8k for you. Most shoots can be done with just a simple 1080 camera.

Lighting – What kind of lights do you need?
That all depends on where and what you’re shooting. If you’re shooting outside and have sunlight, use it. Sunlight is the best light, period. If you’re using regular indoor lights, then most cameras have a setting that will allow you to adjust for that. (i.e. fluorescent.) Keep the camera set to automatic and just make the adjustment. The pro’s use manual settings because it allows for video looks beyond the casual operator’s scope.

Sound – How important is sound?
Video only uses 2 of the bodies 5 senses. That, (as we are almost all aware) is visual and audio. So in layman’s terms (and very abbreviated) sound will make or break your film. Make sure your volume is up. Not to high, anything that is past 0 DB will clip (the equipment won’t be able to detect it and will make a clipping noise instead.) Clipped audio cannot be recovered. That means reshooting if it is a necessary scene. Check to make sure you are not picking up unwanted background noise. In post-production add a little music (score.) Viola, you have an audio track.

Editing – Can you slip by with a quick amateur editing job?
Yes! Today YouTubers are mostly amateur. If you’re putting a video on YouTube, then you’re in good company. A basic free editing software like VSDC’s free video editor, can do the job, and is not really that hard to learn the basics with.

These are the filming basics. Each one of these areas contain an immense amount more to be learned in order to even achieve even an intermediate level, and at least a decade worth of learning to master.

This information is for the do it yourself video maker. If you need something to look professional, then this blog was not for you. High-end video is created with a team of highly-skilled professionals. A videographer can give you a great YouTube video, but I would not suggest that approach with a television commercial. Videographers capture the moment. Cameramen follow planned out precise video directions to capture a pre thought-out concept. The bottom line is the more quality you need your video to be in the end process, the more highly trained professionals will be required to create it. We at Enlightened Vision Entertainment provide professional high-quality videos. We have specialist that handle every aspect of filming so that your idea can come to life. Contact us now for a free consultation (347) 707-6205.