Unit I - Still Photography, Video and Audio Flashcards
Outline the tasks you need to undertake before making a video film or audio recording.
Planning prevents poor performance. Find out what the story is all about. Read all the background. Do your research.
Get these questions answered? Who, What, When, Where, Why and How.
Where’s the best place to film? Do we have other film (may be submitted by readers or from our archives) which we can use?
Now think about the script – what you are going to say. Will it be to camera or a voice-over. Whichever you choose, keep it simple and use plain English. The key is to avoid the passive voice, clauses and inverted sentences. Subject, verb, object sentences are needed. Remember: Less is More.
Once you have the plan, start filming. Here is a simple formula:
1. Introduce the piece – explain what the story is all about.
2. Interview person to give information and a view.
3. Complete a 2nd interview – maybe an opposing view [if appropriate].
4. Film the area affected by the story
5. Reporter summarises what the story is and signs off with a final decision or how the issue may be resolved.
How should you deal with background noise when recording?
Background noise can either make or break a sound recording. If the background noise is too great it will overpower what is being said. It will be distracting and cause the listener to switch off.
Equally, background noise can be appropriate and enhance the listening experience.
It is your job to evaluate what is right and what is wrong in every case. Learn techniques to find a quiet corner in a hubbub and record background noise separately. Or take people somewhere where the background sounds are perfect for your story.
