Top Tips for Filmakers
Intro here
Step 1: Create a Plan
A simple plan or storyboard will help you see how your film unfolds.
Every great story has a beginning, a middle and an end.
In the Beginning: Set up a challenge, a quest or a question for your main storyteller.
How will they go about solving this challenge? (the middle bit)
How does it end?
To make a plan you can use sticky notes, create a storybaord on Canva (it's free) or on paper.
Script or Freestyle?
Will there be actors in your film? Will they be speaking on camera or will they be silent the whole time? Or will you use a voice over and record it later?
All great options!
If you need people to say specific lines - let them know before the camera is rolling.
Remember! If you have people in your film, make sure you have their permission to be filmed.
Have fun Filming
Record in landscape mode - select 16x9 if you're using a smart phone before you record.
Top Tips for Filming:
Remember to start the video 2 seconds before you start filming your scene, and leave 2 seconds after your last scene before you stop the camera. These breaks are needed in editing later.
If you're recording sound / people speaking - stay close to the subject (within 1-1.5m) so that you capture good quality audio.
Keep the camera still if you can. Without equipment, small movements from the one spot make for a better viewing experience.
Stay safe! Make sure the area you are using is clear of any trip hazards and get Mum or Dad's approval for any stunts.
Have Fun!!
Time to Edit!
In editing you select which scenes you like.
Keep only the takes you like - go ahead and favourite the takes you felt were great if you're using a phone
In editing you can add sound effects and music (free to use music is available in Canva Pro accounts, and some mobile editing apps have a range of free music).
Leave 10-15 seconds for credits at the end of your film.
Remember: run your camera for 2 seconds at the beginning of your recording and at the end of your scene so your film doesn't get cut off by transitions in editing.
Need help Editing?
Want some help editing your film? 30 minute editing sessions are available with Lisa in June.
Once you have your raw video ready for editing, we will:
talk for 15-30 minutes to understand what you want for your film
select scenes and music
and Lisa can help stitch it all together
Scroll through to June to book a session.
Not seeing anything above? Reauthenticate