Film Blocking: Filmmaking Techniques for Visual Storytelling

Ep1: Film ToneEp2: Prod DesignEp3: Film BlockingEp4: Camera Movement VIEW ALL EPISODES → EPISODE 3Filmmaking techniques: Blocking for directorsHow directors and cinematographers work together to block actors in a scene.FILMMAKING TECHNIQUES: EPISODE 3How directors block actors:In our third episode on Filmmaking Techniques in visual storytelling, we look at another visual element needed to enhance the story: film blocking. Film blocking is not only about where your actors stand, but it's also about directing your audience's eyes to where you want them to look, and what you want them to feel. In this episode, we'll explore the filmmaking techniques that directors employ to plan and execute…

The Directing Style of Quentin Tarantino

Best Tarantino MoviesQT's Directing StyleQT Directing Tips QT DialogueOnce Upon a Time AnalysisBasterds Breakdown Is there any filmmaker whose personality is more apparent when you watch his films than Quentin Tarantino? In his own quirky way, Tarantino has introduced us to some of the most shocking and moving emotional moments on film.Of course, Quentin Tarantino’s writing style is a huge part of what’s made him so successful, but more than that, it is his shot choices that bring the audience deeper into the narrative. Tarantino, like all directors working at the top of their game, uses the camera as his…

Shot Reverse Shot: Reaction Shots, Cutaways, and Coverage

Shot reverse shot may seem like a simple concept, but the truly great filmmakers know how to use it to achieve unique results. Want to make your scenes more dynamic, robust, and powerful?In this post, we take examples of shot reverse shot, reaction shots, scene coverage, and cutaways to illustrate how you can use these techniques to build more complete scenes in your films, shows, and videos.Lezgo.Continue reading Shot Reverse Shot: Reaction Shots, Cutaways, and Coverage

Cinematic Film Techniques to Make On-Screen Texting Actually Look Good

Itext. You text. My grandmother who still thinks Reagan is president texts. But most tv shows and movies shy away from it. Having your characters pull out their phone puts seems to go against the key foundations of cinematics. But it doesn’t have to. Taking tips from Tony Zhou’s video essay, we’ll cover three cinematic techniques to get your characters texting cinematically. Showing texts doesn’t have to be as hard as working. Continue reading Cinematic Film Techniques to Make On-Screen Texting Actually Look Good

The Best Casting Tips for Directors and Producers

One of the most important parts of any project is your cast. A great cast can make or break your film or project. But many filmmakers look at the casting process as a path of least resistance. There are several ways to make the right casting decisions that will drastically improve your chances for success. Here are our best casting tips that every filmmaker should use.Continue reading The Best Casting Tips for Directors and Producers

What is Bayhem? ― Michael Bay Directing Style

Michael Bay movies are more than a complex assembly of explosions. He's a skilled craftsman from which filmmakers, young and old, can learn a lot from his films. If you're hoping for another post that attacks Bay as a poor filmmaker... you're in the wrong place.In this post, we break down the directing style of Michael Bay, his editing techniques, a tutorial on his 360 shot, and provide a list of his movies.Lezgo.Continue reading What is Bayhem? ― Michael Bay Directing Style

How ShareGrid Creates a Music Video Shot List [Shot List Example]

When you get to a certain level in the film and television industry, certain things start to become standard. If you're new to set, or a seasoned vet, you want to make sure you conduct yourself in the way expected. Today we're going to talk to Brent, from Sharegrid, about how and why a professional cinematographer shot list their shoots. Continue reading How ShareGrid Creates a Music Video Shot List [Shot List Example]

4 Types of Music Video Trends | Best Music Videos

A lbert Einstein said, “If I were not a physicist, I would probably be a musician. I often think in music. I live my daydreams in music. I see my life in terms of music.” Music of course is a powerful device. It has the ability to entertain, inspire and even heal. But with the mainstream introduction of music videos 37 years ago, music’s influence was suddenly elevated to the visual realm. The best music videos are important artistic tools, and ideal marketing devices for branded content. In this post,  we’re going to examine the top music video trends creatives…