Cinematographers and filmmakers have depended on camera support mechanisms since the beginning of cinema. With tripods, dollies, and cranes, the mechanisms to support a camera have evolved. One method, however, relies on none of these mechanisms and has only grown more relevant with time. The handheld shot. It's important to understand how filmmakers have utilized the handheld shot to achieve more than just a stylized look, but rather a psychological effect. Before we answer the why and how let’s first address the what. What is handheld camera movement?Continue reading The Handheld Shot in Film — Definition and Examples
Whip pans, swish pans, whip shot — whatever you call them, they are a great tool for creating seamless cuts and cool effects in your videos, but understanding how to build an effective whip pan is equally important. Continue reading What is a Whip Pan or Swish Pan: How to Shoot Whip Pan Transitions
Few fight scenes in cinema are as exhilarating as a lightsaber duel in the Star Wars franchise. Everyone has their own personal favorites, but one of the most well-choreographed and filmed lightsaber combat scenes put to film is the Throne Room scene in The Last Jedi. A lot of people may watch this lightsaber fight and think it’s just cool to look at, which is certainly is. However, when you really break it down, director Rian Johnson, well known for his unique directorial style, utilizes expert techniques to make the fight scene really stand out. It’s arguably one of the…
If you’re a beginner enthusiast videographer, or professional dabbling into new territory, 360 video might be a great new adventure. Capturing immersive 360 degree footage isn’t complicated, but there are a few things to consider. Let’s answer what is 360 video, where does virtual reality come in, and how can you start shooting yours? Let’s jump in. Continue reading What is 360 Video? How to Create An Immersive Experience
B-Roll BasicsBest B-Roll WebsitesHow To Shoot B-Roll We’ve all seen B-roll in our favorite content, but how does a filmmaker shoot cinematic B-roll footage without a big budget? Our video below will take you through these considerations step-by-step so that you can learn how to shoot B-roll efficiently while also elevating your music video, commercials, and narrative work. Lezgo.Continue reading How to Shoot B-Roll Footage on the Cheap
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…
Ep1: Film ToneEp2: Prod DesignEp3: Film BlockingEp4: Camera Movement VIEW ALL EPISODES → EPISODE 4Filmmaking techniques: Directing the cameraHow directors and cinematographers work together to ensure camera movement is additive to the story.Subscribe to our YouTube ChannelFILMMAKING TECHNIQUES: EPISODE 4How and when to move the camera:In our fourth episode on Filmmaking Techniques and visual storytelling, we look at another critical element to the story: directing the camera.When you're setting up a scene, you have to decide how to take the audience into the action. The director and cinematographer will collaborate on these details. You want to shoot to give the editor options…
