Camera Technique

Experienced camera operators have a lot on their mind as they work. They don't just point and shoot, they go through a process of setting up both the camera and the image composition. Just like driving a car, the art of driving a camera involves many simpler steps that must each be mastered. The list below details some of the things you should practice until they become second nature.

Position Yourself

Make sure you are in a comfortable, stable position. Small body movements translate into unsettling camera movements, so avoid holding the camera in a way which is difficult or likely to become unstable. It's best to hold the camera near your body. Try placing your elbows against your torso as a way to brace and stabilize the camera.

If you are planning a moving shot (panning etc), place yourself in a position which will be most comfortable at the end of the shot so you start in the more difficult position and become more comfortable throughout the shot.

Tripods

If you are using a tripod, make sure it is stable and level. If it has a built-in spirit level, set it correctly. If not, be aware that even if the shot looks level in one direction it may end up off-kilter as you pan. Check the shot in all directions before you begin recording.

Frame the Shot

Take time (where possible) to compose the shot before you begin recording. Check all parts of the frame, not just the main area of interest, and eliminate unwanted distractions. Check that vertical and horizontal lines are not skewed (unless that's the effect you are going for).

Readiness Check

Before you hit record, check that each of these things are ready: white balance, focus, iris and audio.

Once you press the record button, make sure that you are actually recording. Many great shots have been lost because the camera operator didn't press the button properly, or was already recording and inadvertently stopped when he thought he was starting!

Keep an Eye on the Status Displays

The displays in the viewfinder provide important information. Learn what it all means and take notice. You may be able to customize the displays to show only relevant information - this makes it a lot easier and less distracting.

Keep Thinking "Framing...Audio..."

As long as you're recording, keep thinking about how the frame composition is changing and what is happening to the sound. Stay vigilant until you stop recording.

Press the Stop Button Smoothly

Be careful about hitting the stop button - this can create a jerky motion. Practice ending each shot smoothly and cleanly. It's a good idea to hold your position until one second after the "recording" light goes off.

For Advanced Operators

As you get more practiced you can try a few advanced techniques. Here are some suggestions:

Use Both Eyes

A valuable skill is the ability to use one eye to look through the viewfinder and the other eye to watch your surroundings. It takes a while to get used to, but it means that you can walk around while shooting without tripping over, as well as keeping an eye out for where the action is happening. It's also easier on your eyes during long shoots.

Be Creative with Focus

A competent camera operator should be able to adjust focus as the subject moves closer or further away. Advanced operators may like to add a little more spark by occasionally focusing on other objects instead; for example, start the shot focused on a foreground object and then "throw focus" onto the subject.

Learn to Walk Backwards

While you shoot, have someone place their hand in the middle of your back and guide you as you walk backwards. This technique is great if you want to shoot a moving subject from the front, for example, someone walking and talking.

Learn About People

A lot of camerawork is closely tied in with human behavior. It helps to have a basic understanding of psychology and interpersonal relationships. Part of your job may be to make people feel at ease, extract information from reluctant subjects, encourage shy people to talk, etc. Diplomacy is an invaluable skill.

Think About Shots

As you go about your daily life, look at your surroundings through an imaginary lens. Frame shots in your mind, picture them from different angles, and imagine how you could make them more useful or interesting.

Camera technique is something that is based on simple skills and perfected with practice. Make it something you think about and experiment with a lot. In time you will find yourself performing like a professional camera operator without having to consciously think about it.

Sourced from www.mediacollege.com (with permission).