Pre-production
Contents
Pre-production
Canon DSLR
There are currently two Canon DSLRs available for use. If you are going to use a DSLR, please review the document In Studio Video Capture Process - Using the DSLR
Pre-production checklist - DSLR
- Get the battery from the charger, and insert it into the camera.
- Turn on the camera and verify that the battery is fully charged, and that the SD card has been emptied.
- If data remains on the cameras from a previous shoot, look for the contents on one of the designated video hard drives.
- Once the content is confirmed, delete all footage by formatting the card on the camera to maximize the available space.
- Find a lens cloth or a lens tissue (not a facial tissue) and gently wipe off the lens.
- If more than one videographer is available for the shoot, assign roles and priorities in shooting.
When recording on the DSLR, you will need to start and stop recording for each song. Many DSLRs have video time limits of 12 to 30 minutes, so to avoid problems and loss of footage, it is best to begin a new video for each song. At the end of the session, you should have one video file for each song performed, including false starts.
There is a red light that appears in the upper right corner of the DSLR display when video recording is activated.
Preparing the studio
You should arrive at least one hour before the performer(s) arrives, in order to address issues regarding set dressing.
Please work with your Audio Engineer regarding placement of subjects, while being mindful that the needs of the audio department take precedence over that of video.
Backdrop:
- - Are the drums, mics or other performer positions located away from the windows?
- - Are they centered in front of the brick backdrop?
- - Is there clutter that can be removed from frame; i.e., guitar cases, coats, beverages, etc. Large items can be moved to the lounge.
Lighting (daylight):
- - Is the lighting harsh on performers positioned closest to the windows?
- - Are there dark shadows on the faces of any of the performers?
- - Is there a "hot white" box of light from the windows hitting any of the performers?
Composition
- - Work with the audio engineer in the placement of performers.
- - Check backgrounds to eliminate windows as much as possible, especially those leading to outside.
- - Is the performer positioned in front of the lounge or control room windows, and can people be seen behind them?
- - Is there a mic stand or any other item positioned in a way that may hide the face of the performer during the shoot?
- - Are the doors to the studio closed?
- - Is the blind on the lounge window closed?
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