Dec 3, 2010
These are some tips that we have given to our friends and family who have asked us questions about shooting video. We hope this list can be of help to you. If you are planning on shooting video for any occasion and have any questions at all, please do not hesitate to call and ask. I would be more than happy to ensure that you make the best of your video. 619.866.8197
-Jason
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#0 – To make a video project into a product that sells, keep in mind that you must include a strong call to action.
#1 – Start your videos with the end in mind.
#2 – Before shooting your video, develop the idea and write it down, in simple story format.
#3 – Its a good idea to create a shot list so you know exactly what to shoot. For example: Wide shot(establish location) Medium shot (pan inside) Close up(we see people eating, etc.)
#4 – Most tripods are very in-expensive and can add a heightened sense of production quality to your videos. No-one likes watching shaky footage.
#5 – If your videos include interviews, create DEPTH in the shot. It is best, when possible, to place your subject, (AT LEAST) 5 feet between them and the camera and them and (for example) the wall behind them.
#6 – B-Roll is supplemental or alternate footage intercut with the main shot in a video piece, which is A-Roll.
#7 – H.264 is the newest standard for exporting your videos for highest quality, web streaming.
#8 – To enhance the quality and professionalism of your shots, create shallow depth of field. Focused foregrounds and un-focused backgrounds.
#9 – Try to think outside the box, as much as you can when planning to shoot your video.
#10 – When all else fails in your production, let the professionals do the work.
#11 – For the highest production quality, minimize the hard shadows on your “sets” as much as possible.
#12 – Try to make your videos “Viral” Usually funny or entertaining videos make it! Good luck.
#13 – If you want good, high quality video at a very affordable price, invest in a Flip Camera. They are perfect for everyday use.
#14 – If you are shooting inside, simply turning on all the lights possible, could drastically increase the quality of your video.
#15 – Watch as many videos as you can, that are similar to the product you want to create. Then put your own spin on it.
#16 – For video uploaded to UTUBE, know that UTUBE takes the center frame of your video and makes this the icon. Make it appealing if you can!
#17 – For people, seeing is believing. Showing them is always the best way to grab their attention.
#18 – Try shooting your interviews etc., in front of a highly lit, white background. It gives a boost in production value.
#19 – Whip pans are great, especially if you have a small camera, like a handi-cam, iphone or flip camera. Just whip it, fast!
#20 – Use a reflector when shooting outdoors to take away shadows or to add a unique hue.
#21 – Keep your files separated. Make folders and sub-folders. Stay organized.
#22 – Take your productions to the next level, with tracking/dolly shots.Make or buy a slider.
#23- For a LARGER THAN LIFE shot, shoot your subject at an upward angle.
#24- To achieve a silhouette of your subject, shine light from behind your subject, towards the camera.
#25-Slow steady movements are often better for your audience to stomach. Minimize the blur.
#26- To make fake blood for your productions, use kero syrup, 3/4 red food coloring, 1/4 yellow. Add popcorn for flesh chunks.
#27-Open up the iris and speed up the shutter speed on your camera when shooting in low light situations.
#28-Stay On The Cutting Edge http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4jo2C0pzHVI&feature=related
#29-http://jasondraya.blogspot.com/2009/08/frustration-kills-creativity.html
#30- For extra crisp sound, simply use a shotgun microphone that can mount to most levels of cameras, even the small ones.

