A new year is the time to focus on fresh ideas, innovative techniques, and versatile gear. Kick start your skill set by putting one or more of these resolutions into practice and take your production quality to the next level.
Introduce New Equipment
A compact gorilla pod (flexible mini-tripod) with suction cups and dolly wheels is the perfect option for mounting your action cam, smartphone, or lightweight camera in an unlimited number of positions. Combine the pod with your choice of camera accessories and record unique shots in the most challenging environments. GorillaPod Cinetics Cine System
Practice Your Technical Skills
There is no substitute for knowing the technical skills necessary to record consistent, high quality footage. Thoroughly read your camera’s manual and record in different lighting and sound environments. Understand how to identify different light sources (direct sun, candlelight, florescent color shift) and adjust your camera settings accordingly to obtain the best footage. Listen with a critical ear to any noise that might compete with your talent’s narrative and take measures to (1) control ambient sound and (2) properly mic your on-screen contributor.
Know Your Editing Software
Increase your creative options and streamline your post-production workflow by utilizing all the features of your editing software. To master a comprehensive understanding of your software, invest your time and money in the following:
- A license to Lynda.com: Final Cut Pro X 10.2 Essential Training and Adobe Premiere Pro CC
- Apple Pro Training Series, Final Cut Pro X 10.2 Professional Post-Production and Adobe’s Official Training Workbooks Series, Adobe Premiere Pro CC
- Certification: Apple Certified Training Program and Adobe Certified Training Program
Practice New Editing Techniques
Have you ever seen a commercial or show teaser and wondered, “How did the editor do that?” Start experimenting with green screen compositing, time-lapse video, and 3D motion graphics. Take the time to study the technique that interests you the most, then give it a try. There are no mistakes in editing, only learning opportunities!
Study Your Favorite Producers
Take time to study and appreciate the work of world renowned producers. Study their style – the subject matter, the composition, the location, and the techniques or the equipment they use. Understand what makes the scenes they record and edit so engaging, and implement similar techniques into your own work.
While it’s helpful to have videos, tips and techniques to study and replicate, there is no substitution for original thought and hard work. Work for unique shots, be creative in your editing, strive for perfection, and most of all, believe in yourself and your productions!
Written by Kate Lee, Senior Media Producer