When you're out there shooting on the job, it can be hard to find the right balance between being professional and being yourself. It's important to remember that the people you're filming are probably just as nervous as you are.
Here are some tips for making your event video shoot a success:
#1 Understand your event
When you're shooting an event video, it's important to know what you're getting into. The more you know about the event, the more likely you'll be able to plan ahead and make good decisions.
What and when to shoot?
The first thing is that the night before the event, when the venue is still empty and quiet, go in there and get some shots of the whole place. This will help you show off the space and give context for what happens later.
Where to shoot?
When you're filming an event, it's important to know where you can and can't shoot. This will help you ensure that you don't accidentally get in the way of someone's meal or make a mess somewhere you weren't supposed to be.
Whether or not you can film at an event depends on the venue and the event itself. Some venues don't allow filming at all, while others only allow still photography. In addition, some events have specific rules regarding what kind of equipment is allowed—and where it can be used.
Who to shoot?
As you get ready to shoot an event video, it's important to know who's who at the event.
First and foremost, you need to make sure that you have a clear idea of who your target audience is. Is this going to be a video for your employees? Is it going to be shared on social media? Are you hoping it will go viral? All of these are important factors in knowing what information you need from the event.
Why are you shooting?
When you're shooting an event video, it's important to know what the purpose of the event is and what context it has. This will clue you in on which subjects or objects to focus on.
#2 Know your equipment
Shooting an event video is one of the most challenging types of work you can do as a videographer. The lighting and sound are tough to control, and you have to be ready for anything—from unexpected speakers or moments that need capturing to a last-minute venue change.
You will want to be sure to have a good quality camera with a built-in microphone, as well as external microphones for additional sound capture. You'll also need a tripod, so you can get a smooth shot without worrying about your camera shaking or moving too much.
If you're going to be filming outside, make sure you have sunscreen and water so you don't dehydrate or burn yourself due to the sun's rays reflecting off of the subject matter that needs to be captured.
#3 Get inspiration from other videos
You've got a great idea for an event video, and you're ready to get started. How do you make sure that your video is as unique and engaging as possible?
Take some time to study other event videos. Find out what works, and what doesn't. You can learn from the best—and also see what kind of questions you should be asking your clients about their event or product.
#4 Prepare a Shot List
We've all been there: you're at an event, you have your camera in hand, and you have no idea what to do with it.
It can be hard to know where to start when shooting an event video. You've got two options: you can either shoot everything and hope for the best (which is a bad idea), or you can plan ahead and think about what kind of shots you want to get at an event before you even arrive.
Be as detailed as possible with your shot list – and actually shoot from your list at the event! It's tempting just to take whatever comes along while you're there (especially if someone offers you free food), but if you want something specific, don't let yourself get distracted by other things that might catch your eye before getting it done first thing.
#5 Be Attentive
Preparation is the most important part of shooting an event video.
Remember: anticipation is a talent as much as a product of video preparation. It's the ability to be in the moment and ready to catch the action on film. It's also a result of being well-prepared for your shoot so that it goes smoothly and you're able to get all the shots you need.
When you're anticipating what's happening in a shot, you're able to plan ahead by knowing where people will be moving and how they'll look when they get there. You can even anticipate what might happen next!
With these tips and tricks from VideoSupply, you'll be well on your way to producing high-quality footage that will wow your audience.
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