Tips and Techniques for DSLR Photography

Posted on August 22, 2012September 19, 2023 by wattsmedia

DSLR refers to photography that is based on the use of a Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera. This means that the camera has a moveable mirror strategically placed between the film and lens. It is this mirror that is responsible for the projection of your images when focusing. Experienced photographers will agree to the fact that DSLR photography is the best of them all because it churns out photographs that are more amazing than those produced by a fixed lens camera. In addition, DSLR photography allows photographers to work on a wide range of controls thus allowing them to determine the final outlook of the photographs taken. In general, DSLR photography allows photographers to customize their photos. Moreover, the cameras also posses good lenses which when combined with skills deliver the best of images.

Like any other art, DSLR photography is a learning experience as photographers get to pick new tips and techniques eat time they shoot their subjects. Some of the tips and techniques that are essential in making DSLR photography a success include the following. First, you need to be keen on lighting in relation to your subject and timings. For instance, outdoor shoots will require that you ensure the sun is behind you while at the same time it should not be in the face of your subject as they are likely to end up with a squint. In addition, outdoor portraits, buildings and landscapes are best captured during twilight hours or at dawn. In terms of imparting some warmth to midday shoots, you will do well to make use of the warm filter or skylight.

Another important tip relates to shooting images that are ultra sharp. This calls for ensuring that your camera is steady when you are taking photos. Although some cameras have automatic stabilizers that offer tolerance in movement, the photos tend to be blurred at times. Therefore, you will do well to use a tripod as you are guaranteed of steadiness. The other aspect of DSLR photography that you need to consider is the white balance settings because this tells the camera the colors that it will pick as highlights. The white balance helps in bringing out the image as close as the subject’s settings. Even then, the white balance can also be incorporated when processing the photos.

Another tip to consider is keeping it simple. This is very important because when a background is complex, it tends to ruin the picture. This tip is particularly applicable when shooting crowds thus other than capturing a shot that is not interesting, you can consider focusing on a single subject while blurring the rest. Finally, when you are capturing subjects that appear to be in motion always allow them to move. This is achieved by letting the subject fit within the frame yet also depict a sense of motion by particularly focusing on the next move for the subject. This way the subject will not appear to be too constrained. In general, DSLR can best be used to describe what digital photography is all about as the images captured are always r

Courtesy of Dragonfly Digital Video Services a london based production company.

How to Vlog

Posted on August 16, 2012September 19, 2023 by wattsmedia

Recently, you were sitting on Youtube watching one of your favorite music videos when you saw another video pop up in the sidebar of videos you may be interested in. When the music video was over, you decided to click on it and see what it was all about. You saw someone about the same age as you talking about a concert they went to and you thought their video was interesting. Upon viewing their Youtube Channel page, you found that they made many videos just like the one you just watched and called them vlogs. You didn’t know what a vlog even was, so you searched the term and found out that it was a video blog. Knowing you have a lot of things you want to share with the world that you can’t easily put into writing, you decided you want to start a vlog as well so here is what you need to know to get started.

Getting Started With a Vlog

The first thing that you need to know about getting started with a vlog is that you will obviously need a Youtube account. Youtube accounts are free to make and you will be able to upload your videos there for other people to watch. Since this will be your very first vlog, you will want to think about what you are going to talk to ahead of time and have some ideas jotted down so that you are not stalling, saying, ‘um…’, repeatedly or staring into space trying to find your words. Be careful not to choose an overly sensitive topic for your first vlog. Next, think about how much time you are going to need for your first vlog. About two minutes is perfect so that you are not rambling or boring people. Say what you need to say and be done with it. Make sure that when you are uploading your video, you tag it appropriately so that people will be able to find it and watch it.

Video Editing

Once you start vlogging more, you can edit your videos before you upload them. This is great if you did ramble on and on and you want to cut out that rambling in an effort to shorten your video. Once you have your video all edited and ready to rock and roll, you can upload it onto your Youtube page, tag it and start getting views.

At first, it may seem like not a lot of people watch your videos but you will see that in time, you will get more views. If you post videos about topics people care about, you will get more views as well. Always be sure that you are tagging your videos appropriately so that people will find them. Once people find your videos, they may subscribe to you and continue watching your videos if they are liking what you post. Have fun making vlogs, and you will see that you will be a Youtube sensation like Jenna Marbles in no time at all!

Carrie G. is a writer for HowDoIBe.com. If you want to get a career, thie site can help you learn more about this career.

Tips for Choosing What to Wear for Your Senior Portraits

Posted on August 14, 2012September 19, 2023 by wattsmedia

It’s back to school time and the time of year for new high school seniors to book senior portraits. Every senior wants to take a great senior portrait. After all, this picture marks an important time and milestone, your graduation. Teens often feel stressed out about what to wear for their portraits. Use these tips to help plan your portrait session.

Be prepared for your photo session by bringing 2-3 outfits to your sitting. Try to pick contrasting outfits that bring out a particular mood. For example, if you’re a soccer player, consider taking some of your photos in your team jersey. If you are in the debate club, you may want to select an outfit that exudes your intelligence. Contrast is key!

Wear Your “million dollar” outfit.

If you have a favorite outfit that makes you feel like a million bucks, wear it for your photo. Try to select outfits that make you feel good inside. If you feel like you look good, chances, you probably do. Pick outfits you feel confident wearing.

Opt for classics, not trends.

Trendy clothes are fun but may look funny in years to come. Trends come and go, don’t showcase a trend in your senior portrait. If you’d rather not look at your photo in the future and ask, “what was I thinking?” opt for a classic button down shirt or crew neck sweater.

Think simple, not busy.

Your pictures should highlight your face, not your clothing. Steer clear of busy patterns and say “no” to stripes. If you opt for a pattern, make sure it’s subtle. Bold colors can be distracting too. Stay away from bold and neon colors. Your face should be the focal point, not your clothes.

Choose a Variety of Colors.

Try to choose your favorite colors and the colors you look good in. Bringing outfits in a assortment of colors and hues will give your photos more variety. Keep in mind that some colors will only look good with certain backgrounds. Similarly, if you are taking photos outdoors wearing green may not be the best option. You don’t want to blend in with the landscape.

Enlist Props to Tell Your Story.

Props can help make your pictures unique. If you play the clarinet in the high school band, have some of your photos taken with your instrument. Be mindful of taking props too far. Too many props can be distracting. Use props only to enhance your portrait. Limit your props to one per photo. Otherwise your photo may look campy.

Wear Your Signature Look.

Do you have a unique look? If so, wear it for your pictures. Part of the fun of taking senior pictures is exchanging pictures with other seniors. Make sure you look like yourself. if you regularly don your letter jacket, wear it for your pictures.

Plan Ahead.

It’s stressful throwing together outfits at the last minute. Make sure that your clothes are clean and pressed and that you have the right accessories. Plan ahead so you don’t get to your photo session frazzled and stressed. Do a little fashion show ahead of time to make sure that you have all of the items necessary to pull off your look. A little prep work will help make your photo session fun and your senior pictures amazing!

Guest post contributed by Lisa Hirst Carnes, for Cilento Photography. For over twenty years, Cilento Photography has provided unique senior portraits graduation pictures, baby photos, family portraits, wedding photography and more.

6 Simple Tips on How to Properly Do Event Photography

Posted on August 1, 2012September 19, 2023 by wattsmedia

Most people would think that documenting an event would be as easy as taking a camera and shooting the day away. In most cases, hosts would think it is okay to let an amateur, like Uncle Bob or little 12-year-old Johnny, run around the venue with a point-and-shoot camera to cover the entire event. Well, there might be photos taken of the event’s highlights and attendees but it may not be of high-quality – expect blurry faces, outrageous flash sparks, and even a few important scenes which are missing.

Unlike in weddings wherein there are specific shot lists, general events photography is another field in its own. Events deal with gatherings ranging from small family parties to full-blown corporate functions. In each of these events, there are varying elements of highlights, several possible locations, and different appropriate times for such event – each of these affect how you may be able to take quality photos without missing a beat.

Professional or not, being able to capture presentable photos during events is actually a no-brainer. Equipped with the right gear and equal amount of preparation, any photographer can ace any event they cover. Here are a few basic tips on how to do event photography like a pro.

Do your homework. As in any other kind of shoot, you should first know everything there is to know about the event. Learn the location, the program, the key persons, and the time it begins and ends. It is very handy when packing or choosing your own gear when you know how big the venue is and how long the event will run, you might end up needing a third battery pack to last you through the night.

Pack the right gear. In terms of bringing your own lenses, the selection greatly depends on the event’s activities and the possible atmosphere at the venue itself. Most professionals recommend bringing wide angle and telephoto lenses. These will allow you to take great establishing shots of the venue and the set up while also enabling you to zoom into the people on stage without minding the long distance. Others may throw in mid range lenses for capturing people’s emotions up close, like a viewer’s surprise or the speaker’s thank-you smile.

Anticipate, anticipate, and anticipate. The entire success of your documentation relies on preparation. Even while packing up the camera bag, visualize the venue and the ambiance that you might encounter. Imagine what kind of shots you would want to take at the event. Include in a contingency plan for bad weather, terrible lighting conditions, and even a Plan B when the crowd’s area is too cramped.

Be prepared to get flashy. Yes, external flashes are expected to be used in events that are held indoors, that involve dramatic stage lights, and that are happening during the night. Learn how to operate and trigger the flash, being able to use it without dissolving the entire scene into a blast of white light needs a little practice. Test the camera settings with the flash settings before heading out into the sea of people to take a stage dive shot. Also, understand when to use a flash and when not to use a flash to ruin a moment, like in laser shows and in intimate moments between a speaker and his crowd.

The closer, the better. Being able to take a wide shot of the party is indeed great; you get to show off the venue, the audience, and the action. However, the best shots of the night might be right where the action is. Whenever possible, move close to the key person and snap away shots at the climax of their emotion. Especially for sporting events, stay close to the sidelines to feel the rush of excitement first hand and then get another head rush as you get that money shot of the first runner at the finish line.

Get the full story of the day. In fairy tales and stories, there is always a beginning, middle, and an end. Basically, you, as the photographer, are tasked to bring the entire event’s story together in photos. So get the establishing shots to open the story, using detailed shots of the invites, the preparations that took place and the full venue without people in it. Slowly build up on the frames as the day progresses, the guests come in and then the party starts. End it up with amazing shots of the different emotions presented for the night, be it happiness, relief, excitement, or simply exhaustion. Who knows, your beautiful personal take on the event’s storyline might just book you for another round of photos for the next year’s event as well.

6 Elements of Documentary Video Production

Posted on August 1, 2012September 19, 2023 by wattsmedia

Bringing out the real story and the real personal is what documentaries are all about. With the surge of fast-paced advance technology, the demand for documentary films has soared. People are interested in facts, reality, and the hard-hitting truth. Gone are the days of making documentaries to be viewed only by close peers and cause-oriented groups, the internet has made it easier for a great documentary to go viral and inspire others into making a difference.

Even if documentaries may seem as the simplest of all film genres, it is the most difficult to make. Far more than extravagant special effects, high-definition cameras, and multi-million dollar budgets, documentary films thrive on the story it delivers and the characters it unveils. So if you are thinking of trying your luck or a change in genre, read on to learn a few tips and tricks on how to make your own critically acclaimed documentary.

The crucial subject. The heart of the documentary lies in its main topic. Pick out a subject who or which is personally meaningful for you or the entire film crew. It would be easier to capture other people’s interest once the topic has depth and is currently popular. Read through news articles, surf the web, or simply go out and talk to people in your own community to get to know what issues are being discussed.

Hit the books and then hit the streets. Know everything that you can about the topic, research in publications, news items, and online. Especially for science-related fields, get to know the fundamental processes or basic concepts of the topic. Once you go out to interview an expert, you’ll be confident in understanding the jargons and the complicated explanations they might throw at you. Try to interview as many people as possible, get to sort out those who you think would do well on an on-camera interview. Can he explain fluently and clearly? Is his input greatly relevant to the topic?

Gear up for battle. As there might be around 20 or more interviewees for a one-hour documentary special, shooting all that footage requires flawless gear. With regards to lighting, documentaries rely on natural light to portray the subject’s own reality. Aside from the camcorder, this specific genre of film always shoots with a shot gun microphone attached to the camera. Clarity in audio recording is a must, with the ambient or natural sounds included. You may want to bring two or more cameras to the shoot, as it works best to have lots of footage during editing. If you are under a tight budget and could only use one camera, it is absolutely fine. Use it up by shooting in different frames, from different angles, and in different locations.

Building up the story. As the saying goes, “There are two sides to every story.” Create your own take on the subject as you try to present every possible angle. With every character presented, make sure to bring out the entire story as a whole and to support opinions with facts. Think of explaining the subject to a person with entirely zero input on the topic, break it down into simple terms for easy comprehension.

The ever-important cutaways. During the shoot with the interviewees, the camera must be steadily focused on the interviewee. Then you might wonder – where should the B-roll or cutaways come from? You will have to form the person’s own life story on film. Shoot him at his house, at the workplace, doing his hobbies, walking around his neighborhood, etc. These shots add a sense of reality into his interview, plus it breaks away from the boring “talking head” shots of the interviewee itself.

End it with a bang. As the story unfolds during the editing, never forget to leave your audience with a firm, meaningful thought. It may be a compelling realization, an essential lesson, or simply a much needed call to action regarding a crisis. It is, after all, the main reason why documentaries are watched – to learn a valuable lesson or to understand a specific issue. Add in a follow through on what the viewers can do on their part. Offer other resources discussing the same issue, highlight civic organizations that tackle the said problem first hand, and present websites that allow for people to help in taking action for the said cause.

5 Must-Know Tips in Wedding Video Production

Posted on March 6, 2012September 19, 2023 by wattsmedia

With the couples spending a significant amount of money towards one of the most memorable days of their lives, weddings are surely a big deal. From the smallest details of the invitations to the huge decisions like color schemes and band selection, weddings have become a truly celebrated occasion of unity, family, and love.

In the wedding industry, modern documentation has been getting a lot of buzz considering that couples have now understood how important it is to have video or photos of the entire wedding day itself. Some book wedding videographers months in advance while others depend on close friends and family members to capture the wedding highlights. So if you are starting your own wedding video production company or if you are tasked by the couple to get the entire day on film, here are a few important points to remember in terms of wedding videos.

The ever-important gear. A soldier never goes to war without familiarizing himself with his weapon. Even if it is a borrowed camcorder or a freshly unboxed DSLR with video recording ability, the shooter must always get to know how operate his own camera. Know how to charge the battery, how to adjust the settings, and how to go about recording a scene. Also, bring along a sturdy tripod, it comes in handy during the long ceremony readings and the lengthy speeches at the reception.

The taken for granted audio. Since videos are generally moving photos, most people would think that it is all about the pictures and the visual aspect of the video. Actually, the audio plays a big part in the video’s success. Be it the natural audio of the scene or added special sound effects, the audio aspect of any video accounts for its clarity and authenticity. In weddings, there would be no point trying to perfect the video’s composition if the viewer cannot make sense of what the speeches are all about. It would be beneficial for the shooter to secure an audio or microphone system that can help in having a back up for the ceremony and reception recordings. Commonly, remote microphones can be hooked up to record the vows and it still can be hidden away in the groom’s pocket. Just don’t forget to retrieve it after the party and check it from time to time as it might run out of memory space in the middle of a really long speech.

Be prepared. Anticipating the day’s schedule and double-checking all gears before heading to the location are all part of the said preparation. However, it goes far more than the itinerary and the equipment. Professional videographers suggest that shooters attend the rehearsals to be able to properly see the venue itself and also to familiarize the members of the bridal entourage. Survey the venue if there is ample lighting especially in areas where the couple plans to hold the first dance, cake cutting, speeches, etc. Also, ask about contingency plans for weather so you too could be prepared for unexpected rainfall.

The early bird gets the best shots. Upon first hearing it, arriving two hours ahead of schedule might sound a little ridiculous and a bit exaggerated. However, most camera crews would prefer to be early on location to setup all gear and equipment orderly. Also, it allows for more establishing shots of the venue and the event. You get to shoot the venue as it is decorated with flowers and banners, wide angle shots of the establishment’s facade is also done better without the passersby or the parked cars. Most of all, arriving early means you still have time to go back and look for batteries, memory cards, DV tapes, etc. in case you have left them.

The precious B-roll. During the lengthy intermission numbers or successive speeches from one family to another, you’d think you are off the hook just as long as the video camera is aimed at the podium and the audio recordings are doing well. Actually, this is where a second camera comes in handy. Roam around the room and carefully observe the audience’s response and the couple’s reaction. In cinematography, these minor details may be filmed and then used as B-roll or cut-away clips. To break away from the continuous frames of one person talking for more than 5 minutes, these clips may be inserted. If it is a one-camera shoot, be quick to switch views in between scenes such as when the bride and groom are chatting up in another table or when the priest goes down the altar to prepare the couple’s papers. Use up your time wisely and shoot as many clips possible.

6 Handy Tips on How to Capture Great Images for the Web

Posted on March 5, 2012September 19, 2023 by wattsmedia

Photos are widely used in the web for different reasons. For blogs, photos can be used to make a statement or to emphasize a topic associated with the written content. For corporate websites, photos make the page look more appealing and lively as compared to a webpage full of text and symbols only. Other leading sites have invested in simple photo sharing and photo blogging alone, considering the big percentage of humans easily digesting data placed in graphic or photo form.

As the field of web photography emerges alongside the rise of digital photography, being able to capture quality photos for the web is indeed a vital skill. Web photography differs from plain digital photography, as it is to be viewed online, be it through a laptop screen or through a smart phone. Along with the photo, related content may be formed around the image – these may not necessarily be solely in text format, it may range from tutorial videos, generated advertisements, and even automatic-play audio clips. It is a challenge on the part of the photographer to be able to produce top quality photos well suited for the web audience and for the entire website itself.

Getting down to the web business. Since the photo is meant for online viewing, smaller resolutions are favorable for easy to load upon opening the site. Ideal web resolution for photos would be at least 72 pixels. As to the photo’s dimension, widescreen monitors can allow for better viewing but then there are mobile devices such as smart phones and tablets, which have smaller screens. Keep the photos neatly aligned within the boundaries of the site or the intended space. Rearranging this one is easy now that blogging platforms make posting quick and simple.

Keep the focus on the subject. If the subject is a person, use tight close up shots to clearly portray the message or the action. Make sure that the background isn’t cluttered and have the subject wear a top that is in a solid color to make him pop out of the page at the first glance.

Stick to the basics. Although the image may be used for the web, it still pertains to photography. Apply the rule of thirds and frame the subject appropriately. Avoid cutting of the subject’s head and keep the shots solid, clear, and clean.

Natural lighting is key. As much as possible, use indirect natural lighting for the photos to make for a realistic and believable photo. Avoid direct sunlight as it creates harsh shadows on the face and it also makes the model squint throughout the photo shoot. Ideal times for an outdoor shoot would be early morning and early evening for that soft, natural, well-lit look in photos.

The clearer, the better. Well-focused shots allow for the photo’s subject to immediately capture the viewer’s attention upon one simple glance. Blurred shots can be confusing to look at, page viewers may not identify what the website or the writer is talking about. To get clear shots, stabilize the camera while shooting. Use a tripod and avoid pressing the shutter too hard. Lean against sturdy surfaces or rest your elbows when shooting to keep the camera focused and steady.

Shoot your heart out. Explore the different views and experiment with the angles to know which works best. Especially for editorial photos that may accompany blog posts, trying out numerous angles may open other ways of interpreting the subject matter. Get as many shots possible to allow for variety – after spending hours on preparing for the shoot and the concept, put the effort into good use by getting loads of images. The winning shot might be in that unusual angle or in the last image captured by the camera.

4 Great Photography Ideas for Weddings

Posted on March 5, 2012September 19, 2023 by wattsmedia

After spending well-earned money, couples do want to get every single memory from their wedding day captured. Hence, the wedding photography industry is one of the biggest fields in the industry. Especially with the rise of digital photography, couples now appreciate being able to document their special day for the memories to be cherished for a lifetime.

In trying to keep up with the hi-tech weddings of the 21st century, brides and grooms incorporate photos in every thing and every location. As photographers are hired to shoot from preparations until the couple’s exit, planning a totally unique wedding is a big task to do especially when under a tight budget.

Little do couples know that they can now make their weddings more personal and unique with the use of photos. The following tips are handy for shutterbug couples that would love to integrate photography into their wedding and also for brides and grooms who would want a 100% personalized wedding.

Swap the flowers for snapshots. Keep the centerpieces interesting and fun by using childhood photos of the bride and the groom. Give the guests something to talk about during cocktail hours. It would be cheaper than buying flowers and more interesting than candles. Set them up with frames, pebbles and rocks, and picture holders. Substitute the childhood photos for a photo of the couple holding the table numbers or a quirky photo of the couple during their engagement shoot.

Entertain with images. During the cocktails, you can save a ton if leave the live band or DJ to start charging by the hour right after dinnertime. What to do with the guests while waiting for the newlyweds to enter? Still you and your partner, in a photo montage. Prepare slideshows using photos from trips, parties, and dates. Use soft lounge music and then estimate the slideshow to run on repeat for about an hour or two. Guests will stay entertained as they mingle with other well-wishers while you get to save up on the party music.

The ever-popular photo booth. After hiring a videographer and also booking a photographer for a day, you’d be hesitant to rent another camera-related item for the wedding – the photo booth. Whether it is a DIY Polaroid-tablecloth backdrop setup or a walk-in type of photo booth producing photo strips, photo booths are a big hit at any gathering and event. They can double as wedding favors for the guests to bring home and also as entertainment for everyone during the entire reception. For a more meaning guest book, have all your family and friends take a snapshot at the photo booth before entering the hall. Allow them to paste their own wacky photo strips beside their wishes for the bride and groom to read after the celebration.

A different perspective. On each table at the reception, assign a couple of disposable cameras for the guests to capture their own angle of the celebration. Leave them a quirky shot list, too – like the best mustache of the night, the newly weds stealing a kiss, and the best dancer during the after-party. You and your partner will surely love the wacky and candid shots from your friends’ point of view. It’s different from the formal and more artistic shots of your hired photographer but then it is filled of surprising moments you might have missed at their own table or at the dance floor. Of course, note that the cameras should be surrendered before they leave the hall, or have someone collect all cameras at the end of the night.

If photos were indeed worth more than a thousand words, then a picture-filled wedding would be worth millions. Never miss a single moment; photos are great because they allow for heart-warming memories to be cherished forever.

6 Simple Tips on How to Create Basic Commercial Videos

Posted on March 5, 2012September 19, 2023 by wattsmedia

In the rapid-moving world of advertising, nothing ever beats videos. Commercial videos sell better than anything else. The big popularity of commercial videos over any other form of advertising is that videos allow for potential customers to actually see the product in full detail on screen. It gives viewers the idea of what the item is all about, what makes it stand out, and, when an ad is used to its strength, what makes it a necessity for everyone.

The power of video commercials is unceasingly great, industry giants have used it to start a fad or to make profits of over millions. It has gone through huge waves of evolution along with technology and the introduction of the Internet. High-definition cameras and instant post-process video editing have enhanced the entire commercial video production process.

Don’t be dazzled with the advertising industry’s sparkling hypes, making your own commercial video isn’t as simple as you think it would be. Compared to simple event documentation, commercial videos are made with great attention to details and are strongly based on a concrete storyboard. To help you make market-smashing commercial videos, here are a few simplified tips to give you an idea on how the production process works.

Deliver a story, scene by scene. Before anything else, it is your job to get to know the product or service to be advertised. Write a story regarding the product and streamline it according to the item’s own identity. For example, write a hip cool story if it is a product targeting teenagers and young adults or use a family as the main casts of the story if the item is to be used as a household commodity. Plan the storyboard and envision it unfolding scene by scene, this makes it easier to shoot and it also allows you to see what else would be needed for the video, like props, effects, stand ins, etc.

People are people. As much as possible, put in real characters in your commercial. It would be easy for the viewers to related to the video when they see actual human beings using the product. Be it through interviews, testimonials, or celebrity cameos, find the perfect characters to bring your story to life while also building the brand’s own identity.

Mind the time. As in everything else, time is a big factor in advertisements. In television, ads can run for as short as 15 seconds and for as long as 45 seconds. If the allotted time for the commercial is just about 30 seconds, work with every single second and edit everything as tight as possible. You would want every single scene to be shown, otherwise they could cut off the video even before you have flashed the store’s address or contact number.

The Audio-Video tandem. Whatever is said in the script or voice over spiel, it should be shown using the video clip. As the visuals show a fashion-forward bag, the audio should also be describing the fancy bag or the fabulous lady wearing it around town. Of course, getting crystal clear audio and sharp, vibrant shots is another unique obstacle to be tackled. Nowadays, high-definition screens are quite common. So, high-definition cameras are also rampant in the market, more specifically digital cameras which are handy for street shoots and also great with still shots. On-camera microphones can record clearly, given that the shoot is inside a closed, quiet room. However, outdoor shoots prefer to use clip-on microphones or an over-head boom mic to be able to capture the sounds better.

Technically speaking. Aside from the camera and the audio recorder, the technical side of the entire commercial making process is manned by different people with different tasks. If possible, assign people to do the basic tasks on set – operate the camera, assist with the production, and overlook the overall appearance of the video. In smaller companies, all three roles may be filled in by one person only. However, if the project is a big one, more roles are hired, like writers, make-up artists, audioman, etc. You may think that it is a simple and short video about a tiny product but then if a company has hired an entire crew to do the shoot, it should be nothing less than perfect.

Call to action. The important aspect of advertisements is its call for the audience to initiate action. Be it through visiting the store, calling in for a purchase, or simply telling another person about a great new product out in the market, commercials are expected to entice the viewers to do an action. Don’t forget to include all contact information – email address, service numbers, address, etc. In your video, always put the emphasis on these elements by using a large font plus a catchy color. Compose a tune to help viewers remember the number easily to end the advertisement with a bang.