Principle Videography - Location Shooting

Video

• The producer must go on location with the crew.
  
• Tell the cameraman about the programme (even if he doesn't seem to want to know).
  
• Shoot important scenes first.
  
• Cover each action with a 'master' shot and then do close-ups and reaction shots.
  
• Break down each action into shots by 'seeing' the cut sequence on your 'mental TV'.
  
• Finish all the shots in one set-up before moving to the next.
  
• Shoot appropriate alternatives to give your editor (and you) a chance to cut together something good. Shoot enough!
  
• With video allow 'run-up' time to ensure trouble-free editing.
  

Don't forget:

1. Research is important
2. Every shot matters
3. Get the master shots - general views
4. Do an introductory shot for every interviewee
5. Avoid jump cuts
6. Do several cutaways
7. Wallpaper shots
8. Insert shots (slow down the action)
9. Hold each end of the zoom for 'three-shots-for-the-price-of-one'
10. You can't rely on the library to cover shots you miss
11. Overlaps for sound vision
12. Do not cross the line.

• Remember the camera doesn't see the world as you do.
• Use a tripod (or tripod on wheels) whenever possible.
• Banish 'wobbly-vision'
• Don't shoot too much just because it's cheap.
• Use a monitor on location whenever possible.

Check

1. The right things in the picture stand out
2. the edges of the picture
3. lighting
4. cables are out of sight
5. composition.

Sound

• Keep the sound recordist informed for each shot.
  
• Shoot sync sound.
  
• Use a clapper board.
  
• Eliminate off-camera sounds as far as possible.
  
• If off-camera sounds are loud and persistent, move the location.

Lighting

• Keep the number of lighting set-ups to the minimum.
  
• Tell the cameraman what sort of lighting you want.
  
• Make sure lighting draws attention to the main object in the picture.
  
• Avoid double shadows on noses.
  
• Get rid of dark shadows on the back wall by moving the interviewee forward.
  
• Check lighting by half closing your eyes. Beware high contrast scenes