Filming

Setup

Location

• If you are interviewing somebody, ensure you have enough space to create depth of field behind your subject. For example, leaving space between your subject and the background.
• Make sure the location is quiet if you intend to capture audio.

Subject

• Make sure any participants are wearing plain clothes that don't contain visible images or logos.
• Ensure you have the appropriate consent from everybody who will be appearing in your footage.
• Have the subject stand if possible, as this will lead to the most natural looking footage.

Camera and microphones

• If filming a static shot make sure to place the camera on a tripod.
• Set the camera to record in landscape (horizontal) unless filming specifically for social media, in which case film in portrait (vertical).
• If using a smartphone, use the rear camera for better quality. Blackmagic Camera is an app compatible with iPhone and Android that unlocks enhanced features to your camera.
• If interviewing, position the camera at eye level with the subject if you are filming people.
• Test your microphones and audio levels with headphones.
• Make sure background noise is kept to a minimum.

Lighting

Good lighting is essential for clear, professional-looking video. You will need to make sure that your lighting is consistent, and that your subjects are well-lit. These things will be difficult to fix in editing.

• Use natural light wherever possible. Soft light (cloudy skies, window light, shade) is generally more flattering.
• Mixed lighting can result in unflattering skin tones. This is especially the case if shooting indoors. 
• Position the subject next to the light source (Eg a window or artificial light source). Having the light come from an angle, ideally 45 degrees, helps avoid any harsh shadows. Do not light the subject from behind, or directly above.

Framing your shot

Select the best shot type based on the purpose and format of your video.

Keep eye lines consistent and use the camera height to help your audience connect to the subject.

Positioning

Use the rule of thirds to position your subject in the shot to help capture footage that feels balanced and visually engaging. This is a simple way to frame a shot by dividing the image into three equal sections horizontally and vertically, and placing the subject along these lines or where they cross.

Zoom

If you are filming on a phone, we recommend moving the phone (rather than using camera zoom) to ensure the footage is of a high-quality.

• Filming the subject's chest to head are best for interviews and talking-head videos.
• If capturing wider shots, use the subjects’ joints as a guide (eg above or below the knee). It is important to leave enough space around your subject, but avoid very wide shots.
• If you are comfortable with filming and filming equipment, you can create different effects by changing the focal length.