Video Production Rules of Thumb

Video Production Rules of Thumb

Movie Length

It is best to limit your movies to 2-3 minutes in length; therefore, keeping the attention of your intended audience.

Video Clip Length

The clips created should be no longer than 20-30 seconds with a 5 second count at the beginning and at the end.

WHY? The 5 seconds will allow you to capture the scene without cutting off any important bits. It also makes the clip easier to edit and add transitions. Transitions will actually take over part of the clip so the time lapse will help.

Scripts

STEPS
Webbing (Brainstorming using Inspiration or a Graphic Organizer)
Script Story Board- Scene (Shot) Sketch and Synopsis
Script Planning Scaffold- Narrowed, revised, and planned; May be based on formal writing.
Teleprompting
Scrolling: If the scene allows for the use of the computer as a teleprompter, just have a student listen, monitor script, and scroll.
Printing: If the computer is not accessible for the scene, it is most beneficial to print up the script. It is best to print in “Landscape” on 8 ½ by 14 paper. The script can be held directly under the camera lens.
Narrative vs. Reporting
Many times when creating a Narrative type of film the actors actually memorize the scripts. Video editing allows for many takes, but class time to film does not always allow for this.
News Reporting or public service announcements allow for the use of teleprompting or printed scripts held under camera. Try to stay away from hand held cue cards.

INTRO AND OUTRO

Having an INTRO and OUTRO is extremely important to any film. It may be done with a title or showing a group entering a scene AND exiting after the movie is over. It adds a fluid feel and sends the viewer off with a sense of closure.

Camera

When plugging the camera into the wall or to charge the battery when it is on board, make sure the camera is in the OFF position. If it is not, your camera may receive a surge of power which will fry the motor.

Importing

Remember- If your footage is 5 minutes in length, it will take 5 minutes to import it. Producing will also take at least that long.

Microphones

The onboard microphones on cameras often times pick up feedback. It is best to use a plug in microphone when filming in an environment with noise.

Tripods

The stabilization factor of a tripod is outstanding. It also makes editing much easier. Re-shooting footage due to shaking is not fun. Shoot the footage at different times and just add transitions to move to the next scene.

Explore, investigate, and discover new ways to use video editing in your classroom. It is a wonderful medium and tool!