Check out these 4 tips from a video editor on how to shoot your film with your editor in mind!
- Movement
Using movement is the easiest thing you can do to help inspire dynamic editing. In some videos, this might mean you get to go all out with quick dollies and tilts. Is there an effect you hope to add in post-production, such as zoom, spin, or fade? Consider your desired end result and see if you can manually create that effect. In most cases, however, the simplest movements can add style and depth to your video. Even for typically static shots such as interviews, movement in the camera can be artfully integrated to create a more engaging viewing experience. A great example of this is this video EMP created for the 2020 launch of the Porsche Taycan.
- Transitions and Cuts
Filming for intended transitions is a great way to add to the uniqueness of your video’s edits. One example of this is the cut-away or pull-away shot. This shot begins on a static scene and then pans/tilts away to reveal the next shot. This is commonly done with wide location shots, but can be used in many ways! You can see an example of this in the intro of this video we created for our client Peacock Law.
- Action
A good rule of thumb for editors is to cut on the action. So as you shoot your video, look for the action, or create it! Are you shooting a large event with tons of people? The best shots are going to include action – laughing, smiling, handshaking. Static shots of blank stares don’t create a compelling video. Don’t be afraid to ask people to pretend for the camera; typically, light conversation and a few jokes with your non-actors will create genuine smiles anyway! This technique is for things like corporate events or awards ceremonies. This video of the GarageExperts® 2020 Conference is a great example.
- Takes
Last but not least, shoot as many takes as you can. If you have to opportunity to shoot something more than once, you should absolutely take it. For live events, you should be setting up multiple cameras and different angles, so that your editor has options, and you eliminate the chance of them having unusable footage for any segments.
These shoots aren’t so realistic for the run-and-gun type of filming – ideally, they involve some pre-planning and intention. Make sure you have a visualization of your desired outcome. This can be a storyboard or an example clip from another piece of media. Just something that shows what you envision to happen on screen or created in post. Going out and panning your camera around in various directions does not mean you’re guaranteed to produce more engaging footage. Having your editor on set with you while filming can definitely increase this planning, and double your ability to create unique and dynamic edits for your video.
Of course, we at Emblem strive to make videos that go above and beyond expectations. These are just a few of the ways we get intricate with our footage to create stunning videos for our clients!