09 Feb Keys To Successful Event Video
Tips for Event Video: The ability to experiment with different options to find what works best in a given situation is an excellent perk of staged shootings. Toss a light switch around a couple of times. Spend some time testing the audio with various microphone placements. Try using the Canon EOS 5D Mark III instead of the Sony PMWEX3 to see if you like the results better. These conveniences are appreciated in such settings, but significant forethought is required to produce a quality result while shooting in less controlled conditions, such as event film.
Means Of Preparation
The nervousness you feel before a live shot is very natural. One method to gain composure is to plan. Be sure to bring a fully charged mobile phone as well as a charger for it. Your phone may be your only means of contact with the rest of the office when all other methods have failed. You may take a customer or subcontractor back to their hotel or the metro station once the event is over, so make sure your gas tank is complete, and your vehicle is clean before you go.
Find your way around ahead of time. Not only will you get a feel for the venue’s overall size and layout, but you may also pick up on details like designated spaces for staff and loading docks that will come in handy on the day of the event.
Find Out Who Holds The Reins
Before filming an event, it’s essential to get down with customers and discuss the event’s scope, the material you’ll be supplied after the fact, and when it has to be delivered.
Determine who will be in charge of the event on the day(s) in question; it may differ from the person you spoke with while arranging your participation. If you have any questions on recording day, this is the person to reach out to. The lights, power outlets, and any hazards in your area should all be checked out beforehand. Take advantage of any practice time available by doing sound checks, checking the functionality of your cameras, and assessing the ambient lighting to see whether additional lighting will be needed.
Create A Timetable
The customer will supply you with an event schedule in advance; however, it may be on short notice. Request one if they don’t provide it. You may use this as a guide to help you organize your day (or days). Remember to include time for getting from point A to point B. If any modifications to the plan or accommodations need to be made, jot them down on the calendar.
Use What You Have!
Making a list is just half the battle; you must put it to good use! One of the essential manufacturing rules is “shoot your plan.” It doesn’t matter whether your customer is aware of it, but they depend on you to adhere to this idea. You should also stock up on editing necessities. Whether you’re covering a wedding or a business function, getting some establishing shots and B-roll footage is always a good idea. If you’re worried about crowds, it’s best to get an outside photo on a pleasant day before the event.
Assume The Worst And Carry Extra Supplies
The timing of a problem’s occurrence is always uncertain, which is critical to a successful event video. Sometimes, all you have to do is sit on a chair next to your recording equipment and hope for the best. Cable malfunctions, damaged cameras, lost data, ruined adapters, accidental equipment drops, spilt drinks, and other mishaps are all possible. Adaptability becomes crucial, and you may need specialized tools to do so.
Make sure you have backups of everything on your “must-have” list before the shoot begins. Having spare supplies on hand is also helpful for taking advantage of unexpected possibilities. A second camera or lavalier microphone in your suitcase might allow you to record an unexpected interview or catch a fleeting appearance by a famous person. Such details drastically alter the client’s perception of the value you offer to the project.
Establish A Preferred Relationship With The Local Audiovisual Technician
Is an XLR cable connection to the soundboard necessary? You may need an SDI cable to get your camera’s feed on the big screen. Using a wedding photographer as an example, we expect that both the audio/video (AV) and photography teams will desire access to their respective teams’ supporting assets. No matter what assistance you need from the audiovisual team, it’s always a good idea to become friends with the people you’ll be counting on to provide it.
Conclusion
With any luck, you’ll avoid some of the pitfalls inherent in recording video during a special occasion by following these keys to a successful event video. The customer, the event, and your process will determine which, if any, you can employ. Still, the takeaway is that you should always be ready for the worst-case scenario to provide the most excellent possible service. There are few circumstances you won’t be able to face with poise and professionalism if you can maintain your composure.