BestVideoMaker

Video production tips

4. Hold your camcorder with two hands

A simple tip for those using small camcorders, of which there are now many fine models on the market: hold it with two hands when shooting, not one; it will give you a steadier image. You can use one hand to hold it behind the strap, with the other hand placed under the camera and in front, right below the lens. A simple technique, but one which is often overlooked by beginning videographers.

5. Plan your shots - produce a shot list

Apart from its obvious value as a checklist, producing a shot list will make you think long and hard about what you hope to achieve during the shoot, and you might conceive shots you would not otherwise have thought of.

You should produce a shot list even if you are shooting an unpredictable, intrinsically difficult event, such as a car race.

That said, when shooting such events keep your eyes and your mind open and learn to react quickly with correct framing and focusing: I filmed some of my favorite shots on the spur of the moment, with a handheld camera and an instant framing decision. But such shots are a bonus and you cannot rely on that; a good shot list will ensure that you make the most of your shoot and will result in superior video production.

6. Shoot for the edit

Even if your aspirations are not particularly cinematic, understanding how editing works and what makes a good cut will make you a far better videographer. Learn the basics of editing and design your shots in such a way that they can be cut together smoothly in post-production. The section on film editing tips might start you off in the right direction.

7. For top results, use advanced grip equipment: cranes, dollies, stabilizers

For many video shoots a good fluid head tripod will suffice, but if you want top results and an impressive reel, you should consider using more varied camera support systems, such as dollies, cranes and stabilizers. There are many lightweight dollies, cranes and Steadicam-like systems that were specifically designed for small camcorders and that can be operated by a single person (although the cranes sometimes need two people to be set up). These can all produce great results if you choose the right model and practice using it smoothly. Your video production will greatly benefit from the judicious use of advanced camera support systems.

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Video production tips

4. Hold your camcorder with two hands

5. Plan your shots - produce a shot list

6. Shoot for the edit

7. For top results, use advanced grip equipment: cranes, dollies, stabilizers