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Composing Videos

Trophy Room wants you to make great videos. A basic understanding of composing videos is a good start to creating better videos.

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Think about the Composition of the Shot

Composition refers to how a shot is put together (the way in which the different parts of the shot are arranged visually). The "rule of thirds" technique is a good place to start. It is a straight forward technique and can improve footage dramatically
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The "Rule of Thirds"

Divide the screen into thirds both vertically and horizontally. These lines are reference lines to the position of objects in the composition
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Filming People

When filming people, their eyes should be on the upper third line, and split in the middle by either the left or right third
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Filming Animals or Waterfowl

When filming moving animals or waterfowl, try to keep their bulk in either the left or right third of the frame
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Filming Landscapes

When filming landscapes or scenery, place the horizon in either the lower third or upper third of the frame. Depending on focus, emphasize geographic features or the sky
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Giving Lead Room

As you film animals or moving objects in general, provide lead room. This gives the object room to move. If filming a bear walking from right to left, position the bear in the right third so it is not walking off screen as you follow it. This also applies to interviews/recaps but is called "nose room." If the talent is looking right, position them in the left third
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Pay Attention to the Background

When filming an object make sure there is nothing protruding from it. While conducting an interview with someone, make sure there are no trees, poles, or any other objects sticking out of them that distracts the viewer (in this situation take two steps to either side and re-position yourself so the problem is solved)
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Use a Tripod Whenever Possible

There is a time and place for handheld shots, but if possible, use a tripod. Remember that while the camera might say "auto-stabilization" it is a gamble with the shot zooming in past about 10-15%. Tripods improve footage dramatically
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Be Aware of Auto Iris and Focus Controls

The iris regulates how much light the camera sees. Assume the camera does not have iris controls on its side or shutter speed selection, so it is considered an "auto-iris." An auto-iris searches for the darkest part of the composition and brightens it. An auto iris is helpful in even light and when the camera isn't moving. It can also completely destroy footage by over adjusting resulting in the shot being blown out (the screen becomes white except for some scattered pieces of color that barely resemble a person or an animal). To curb the effect of the auto-iris, be aware of where the light source is and where it is strongest. The auto focus acts in a similar manner as the auto iris. Be aware of objects in the foreground when filming that will take the point of focus away from your primary subject. This is especially important when filming deer from a tree stand or waterfowl from a duck blind.

Getting Clean Audio in the Field and Using a Lav Mic

A lavalier microphone or lavalier (or lav or lapel mic) is a small electret or microphone that allows for hands-free operation. They are most commonly provided with small clips for attaching to collars, ties, or other clothing. Lav Mics add huge value in windy, outdoor situations when recording a subject's audio.
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