It may be important to your video to maintain a sense of spontaneity but it is also crucial that you capture the best footage possible. This can mean doing multiple takes.
Don’t hesitate to shoot several takes of your introduction to the scene that is unfolding. Getting clear, succinct audio is key to producing awesome travel vids. When you are on camera speaking shoot several takes so that when the time comes to edit your video you have options.
Oft it takes me a half dozen takes to get the stutters out and deliver an audio bite I am happy with.
If you are traveling you will likely not have an opportunity to stand in that exact place again and re-shoot a set up to your video or to narrate an unfolding scene so make sure your bases are covered. You know that old carpentry axiom, ‘measure once cut twice’ ? Well that applies to your travel video too. Shoot twice before you cut.
CHECK OUT THE VARIETY OF SHOTS AND ANGLES IN THIS VIDEO
Shoot scenes at different angles, directions and perspectives to grant yourself a wealth of options to edit a visually compelling video. Shoot one static shot, one shot from the left, one from the right, one zoomed in and following the action.
Does this sound like overkill? Then you are not ready to take the leap from producing merely passable travel video to kick ass vids your friends will be glad to watch and share.
Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think you should break your neck shooting every possible angle but a few extra moments of creative and thoughtful shooting goes a long way.
There are several approaches to creating travel vids. Many people want a video log of their travels with no frills, they are not worried about creating an experience, they just want the ‘look at me, I am holding an anaconda’ moments on tape and to move on.
Then there are those who wish to capture the cultural miasma through their lens as a form of storytelling and creativity. I believe we fall in this category dear friends. So next time you are capturing video ask yourself if what you just shot warrants another take and if you don’t know then go ahead and shoot it again.
TAKE NOTES ON THE SHOTS AND STYLE OF VIDEO NINJA NICK VIVION
At worst, you wasted a few moments. At best you increased the value of your video, improved your amateur production skills and advance as a travel video ninja!
Joshywashington
Joshywashington is a Travel Media Ninja from Seattle who enjoys writing, climbing trees and strong coffee.
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