Shooting a music video as well as working with a talented artist on set can be an extremely exciting and insightful experience. Overall, this process can also develop your skill set as a filmmaker, push your creativity to the next level and help you grow as a professional. However, just as any other filmmaking production, there might be a lot of challenges along the way mostly due to time limitations and budget restraints. While every industry has its set rules and techniques, everyone enjoys a few tips and tricks to make their lives just a little easier.
Here are 5 tips and tricks from AltPress to help you film great music videos
Lighting
According to AltPress, everyone knows that lighting is important in a video, but just how important? The type of bulb you use or the colour temperature of said bulb can have dramatic effects on your overall video. Natural light (shooting outside) can look great, while pointing a few floodlights at a band can make them look washed out. As simple as lighting up a band sounds, it really is important to think of how they should look. When shooting indoors, one great technique is using soft light or even a China Ball (paper lantern) above a band. This is extremely cheap, adds a soft look to the members and flatters everyone’s complexion.
Camera Shake
When watching a movie, most scenes are very sturdy and obviously filmed on a tripod. This is great for a movie, but not necessarily a music video. Music videos are meant to be high-action videos that keep the viewers attention span for more than three minutes. I hate watching music videos that are filmed on tripods because the band’s energy isn’t reciprocated by the camera operator. It often looks uncomfortable and disconnects the viewer from the energy of the band. A great tip is to match the band’s energy and feel free to shake and move your camera around. When a band is head banging, follow them up and down as they move. These techniques will add to the energy on screen.
Concept
To this day, the most convenient place to shoot a full-volumed band is in an old warehouse. Which makes Atlantic Film Studios the perfect choice for your music videos. Locations such as ours mean you have access to power, tons of extra space and you can be as loud as you want.
Better Actors
Sometimes people want to build a story into their music video. Sometimes that is a terrible move, from the stale idea of a girl and guy breaking up or having acting that is just plain cheesy. Many people don’t have the budget to hire celebs to be in their music video, so they rely on band members or friends to play roles. This is great until it’s not great. As you shoot a serious scene, your friend feels uncomfortable in front of the camera and it just doesn’t translate on-screen. Sometimes it is patently uncomfortable to watch. Instead, try utilising local actors looking to develop their portfolio. They will give it their all, take the shoot extremely seriously and your music video will look more like a movie trailer.
Proper Gear
They say it’s “not the brush, it’s the painter” that makes a great art piece. This may be true with traditional art, but in the world of video, it is not. You must know your gear inside and out and make sure it is up to par to fulfil your vision. You don’t need the most expensive camera; just know what your gear is capable of and use it to its fullest. Think about shooting in 4K resolution (some cameras can only handle 1080p). Can your gear shoot at a high frame rate? Also make sure you have a few good lenses that can get both wide and close shots.