Feb 10 2017
“Cinematography…”
"Cinematography, a military art. Prepare a film like a battle."-Robert Bresson...
video production Tag
Feb 08 2017
Top Ten TV Openings
They get overlooked far too often, but opening titles are an important element of a TV show’s connection with viewers. They set an expectation and mood for a show and since they appear in every episode, they form much of a show’s ‘branding’. So let’s talk about who is doing it up right. There are way too many great TV intros to list them all, so, since we’re discussing modern filmmaking techniques, preference was given to more contemporary shows (and even still there were many great intros that didn’t make the...
Feb 03 2017
“A style…”
"A style is not a matter of camera angles or fancy footwork, it's an expression, an accurate expression of your particular opinion."-Karel Reisz...
Jan 04 2017
How Good Does My Video Have to Be?
“I just want the production value to be good enough so that it doesn’t detract from the message”. It’s something I hear a lot. The problem is, that’s not really one of the options. I take that phrase to mean the client doesn’t feel the need for stunning visuals and flashy effects to connect with their audience. Whether they’re right or wrong, that’s not the only reason, or even the main reason, to hire experienced video talent. If you’ve ever split tested something, you know how the slightest decision can have a...
Dec 21 2016
10 Production Tips for Better Green Screen Keys
Chroma keying software has made huge strides in recent years, but that’s no excuse for sloppy production work. Here are a few tips to keep up with the software advancements: 1) Resolution and FramingLet’s start with the obvious. You’re going to want as much visual information as possible. This means shooting at as high a res as possible and providing 4:4:4 files without color compression to your post team. In terms of framing don’t be afraid to shoot portrait or otherwise ignore every composition instinct you have- just make sure everything...
Nov 30 2016
Budgeting for Film Festivals
So you’ve finished your film and you actually have some money left over. I know you’re just itching to transfer it to one dollar bills and swim around in it Scrooge Mcduck style, but you’re not done shelling out just yet. [caption id="attachment_20660" align="aligncenter" width="700"] We’re spending a lot on donuts. Who keeps buying donuts?[/caption] Regardless of what your goals are for your film, festivals are almost always the first step to get there for any completed independent film. Done right, it’s still the best outreach you can do for your film,...
Nov 16 2016
Creating the Perfect Reel
You probably thought it as soon as you saw the title. There is no such thing as a perfect reel. And in a way, you’re right. Each person that sees the reel will have a different perspective on what makes a reel great. But if you know who is viewing your reel, you can make the perfect reel for them. [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="630"] “Sure, I’ll consider hiring you. Do you do star-wipes? I love star-wipes”[/caption] First, let’s get this out of the way. When I say reel, I’m talking about work samples,...
Nov 04 2016
“If filmmaking was a beautiful woman…”
"If filmmaking was a beautiful woman I would have trouble wooing her because she's a needy jerk."-Justin Bundy *Photo credit Stuart Grout...
Oct 14 2016
“Great video…”
“Great video comes from thinking humans, not equipment.” -Steve Stockman...
Oct 12 2016
The High Cost of Low Quality Video
There are enough bad business videos online to fill every landfill of the internet. Largely you can put it down to inexperience. Looking for cost savings or due to ignorance in the field, businesses hire lower quality video staff. I’ve even seen marketers stressing the importance of video marketing by suggesting that if a small business doesn’t have the budget for it, they whip out their phones and start shooting. I can see why a DIY video would appeal to a bootstrapping entrepreneur but before you get your phone out and...
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