Filming Large Events for New Videographers

From the Perspective of a Still-Learning Film Assistant

     I've been working with the studio for a few years now, and if I've taken away anything from all my experiences with Hayes, it's that there is always something new to learn. From assisting with lighting and equipment setup to taking your first solo position behind the video camera, you never want to lose track of what's most important for filling any role when shooting film or photos. Undeniably, the first and biggest rule of filming any event, and especially the larger they get, is that communication is key.

     With so many details that go into the planning, setup, and running a ceremony that plays such a big part for so many people, it never hurts to double check start and end times on your schedule, keep updating with any planners or hosts, and express any concerns or questions you may have as soon as possible. 

     Especially regarding planning, it's imperative for photographers and videographers to acknowledge that everything might not happen according to schedule, and to stay on your toes for when they don't. You never want to miss a sentimental moment, so always stay prepared to shoot ahead of time.

     When solo filming bigger events (like I happened to be for this one), bringing a little backup can go a long way. In the form of a wide angle lens such as a 24-70mm, a shoe mount LED on-camera light to help with low-light situations, and a sound recorder to help sync the audio for speeches, I encourage anyone shooting alone to pack those as well.

     Last but not least, when there's lots of people enjoying the event, keep it rolling! It's always better to cut down footage you won't use than to miss something key to the event. Make sure to take advantage of your space, wide angle, and vantage points to get a solid variety of perspectives. And I can't say it enough, keep mobile!

     Below is a video I put together from footage I filmed on my own at the same event shown in the pictures above. My goal is to demonstrate contrasting scenes based on lighting, space, focus and framing to convey all the opportunities available for videographers while shooting solo. Thanks for watching and I hope you enjoy!

Adornment Events

Caring for every customer.

Carisa at Adornment events has to be one of the most caring and professional wedding and event planners I have had the privilege to work with. If you don't make it over to my wedding site www.hpweddings.com very often then you may have missed this project I did for them. I am also very lucky and blessed to partner with them for weddings. 

If you are in the need of a planner for your wedding or other big event look no further then Adornment Events.

Finding Love. Giving Life.

A mini Documentary

Family Dogs New Life Shelter celebrates 10 years of finding dogs their forever homes. This is a short documentary taking you into the shelter. A little behind the scenes and history, as well as what they hope for the future. They are in many cases dogs final hope to find a loving family. To help this shelter for the next 10 years go to http://www.familydogsnewlife.org/donating-to-family-dogs/

This was my first attempt at a documentary and I know technically  there are many mistakes, but it was a great experience and I learned a lot for the next one.  Enjoy!!

HP