Home Movie Filming Guides

Aim to keep the video camera still (no movement, no zoom) for a minimum of 8 seconds for each shot. This sounds a very short time but try it - don't count too fast!

Keep zooms to a minimum. If you need to get a closer shot, move closer if you can. If not, zoom to the required distance, then hold your shot for eight seconds. There are of course times when a zoom can be used to effect in a shoot, but this should be the exception rather than the norm.

Most people tend to hold their camera at eye level, often with one hand. This usually leads to wobbly footage. Hold you camera at waist height, with two hands. Tilt your screen so that you can see it easily. Alternatively find a comfortable sitting position and hold your camera in two hands on your lap. This approach also has the advantage of relaxing your subject. People's behaviour can become very strange when they feel that a camera is pointing at them. We find that they are less aware of you filming if the camera is held lower. Sometimes leaning your forearms on a low wall or leaning your shoulder against a wall is also helpful. You will find that you can keep the camera steady for much longer in these positions. Take care that you don't cover the built in microphone with you hands.

Panning (moving the camera slowly from left to right or vice versa) should be avoided for most shots. It is difficult to do well unless you use a tripod. Even then, films with too much panning can make the viewer feel sea sick! Clearly there are times where panning is the only way to take in a view or show action properly. Holding the camera at waist height with two hands or using a tripod will get the best results. If holding the camera, start by facing the centre of the area you intend to pan. Keep your feet still and twist your body to the start of the shot. This should allow you to pan the whole shot without moving your feet.

If you want to improve your filming dramatically, invest in a tripod. Try one of the small table top versions first. You won't feel so self conscious!