Video Foundations: Cameras and Shooting

Introduces the core ideas behind how video cameras capture moving images, and explains how to light and mic a shoot.

Introduction

• Welcome
• Using the exercise files
• Introducing the subject for the video shoot

1. Getting Started in Video

• Learning the craft of filmmaking
• Exploring types of video cameras
• Knowing what to look for in a camera

2. Camera Essentials

• Learning camera anatomy
• Exploring important camera settings
• Understanding how to focus
• Using tools to achieve better focus
• Knowing when to use auto focus
• Shooting with shallow depth of field
• Understanding exposure
• Using neutral density (ND) filters to correct overexposure
• Using zebra stripes to accurately judge exposure
• Using gain to artificially brighten an underexposed shot
• Choosing the right shutter speed
• Understanding color temperature
• White balancing a shot

3. Moving the Camera

• Choosing the right tripod
• Understanding camera moves
• Mastering hand-held shooting

4. Audio Essentials

• Five sound rules to live by
• Understanding the types of microphones for video shooting
• Setting up microphones for a video shoot
• Using a boom microphone
• Setting proper audio levels

5. Lighting Essentials

• Working with lighting instruments
• Understanding lighting concepts
• Creating a four-point lighting setup for a scene
• Using corrective gels

Conclusion

• Shooting for the edit
• Goodbye