Commencing 23rd October 2011, we will share our experiences, tips and related links on how to create high quality videography, right here on our blog!!
1. Steady or shaky video?
Depending on the genre or type of video you are shooting, both are useful in expressing the moment (story telling). For example, a chase/fighting/horror sequence may require some shaking shots so the audience feel the tension and suspense. However a more slow pace settings like wedding/nature/family events will require more steady shots.
You may also want to experiment on combining the two. Balance shots would make your video looks more interesting.
You may also want to experiment on combining the two. Balance shots would make your video looks more interesting.
2. How do we take steady shots without a mono-pod or tripod?
Firstly for handycam, make sure you turn on your steady shot feature, this helps in minimizing shake. However, it may not be enough especially when you are trying to deliver quality works to your clients. Remember, a client can tell if you are a newbie or professional by observing your shooting style.
To shoot steadily without a pod, you will need to place the camera very close to your body. You also need to support your camera with your other hand (usually at the bottom of the camera). If there's a wall near by, you may want to lean your body or camera onto it for extra stability.
Another habit that usually downgrades our shots is zooming in far away object without a tripod. If you need to zoom objects, a tripod is a must or at least get support from near by wall/pillar/table to stabilize your shot.
A shot without "steadyshot"
With "steadyshot"
3. What is white balance?
White balance is a process of getting the right colors for different light situations, in simple term to get the same color balance on the screen as to the actual scene.
Why is this important? A poorly white balance shot may reduce the quality and accuracy of the real colors hence making your video looks 'not right'. Such problems can be fixed during editing by adjusting the color balance, but correct setting upfront would help you save time on adjustments and rendering during editing.
How do we 'white balance' our shots? Most handycam has 'white balance' feature built-in (please refer to owner's manual). All you need to do is to zoom you camera to a white object (e.g. ceiling, wall, backdrop, etc) and press the white balance button. However it is advisable for you to bring a small square white card to white balance on, so you would get consistent results.
Top left is an example of a correctly white balanced shot
