Improving on video composition techniques will really have a big effect on the look of your stories. With the application of just a few simple rules, the video will look much more professional.
Here are FIVE SIMPLE techniques to work on:
1. Always use a tri-pod for steady shots of interviews. There is nothing more jarring than a shot of someone talking to the camera bobbing up and down.
2. Apply the rule of thirds to the frame. The subject of your video should never appear in the dead center of the frame. The most interesting point of the frame visually are in the left and right thirds of the frame.
Make sure as the reporter, you inform your subject to look at you and not the camera. The camera operator should then adjust the camera to position the subject correctly in the frame.
3. Shoot b-roll (video of action which you will use in conjunction with your voiceovers) in sequences. Sequences are sets of shots that include wide, medium, and tight shots of the same action.
Varying your shots and grouping them adds a lot to the story. Remember you want to show your audience the setting (wide), the actor/subject (medium), and the details (close-up).
Shoot three separate shots rather than zooming in or panning. The three shots are much more pleasing to the eye in most cases.
IMG 0170 from trn media on Vimeo.
IMG 0171 from trn media on Vimeo.
IMG 0172 from trn media on Vimeo.
4. & 5. Shoot opening and closing shots. Remember you need a way to start the story and close the story. It often will not be the best to close with a shot of an interview.
Broadcast Staff Manual For The Scholastic Press 