Videomaker.com » Production» Directing

Live Event Miking (VOD)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

This Video On Demand highlights the best ways to get good sound while shooting a live event.

Tutorials - Getting the Best Answers in any Documentary Interview

Tue, 17 May 2011 08:44:37 PDT

With a little preparation and knowledge, interviews can actually be one of the most thrilling portions of making a documentary. To help you prepare, we show…

Tutorials - Finding the Best Crew and Equipment for your Documentary

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 08:36:16 PDT

Having a good crew behind you can help you to not only get the shots you need, but get them on time as well. To help you find good crews, we'll first go over…

Tutorials - Wedding Videography: How to Shoot a Marriage Ceremony

Mon, 17 May 2010 10:16:08 PDT

The central moment of the wedding is the ceremony and you don't want to miss a minute of it. This video shows you camera placement, how to do a multi-camera…

Why do You Need Release Forms?

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 PST

There's been a lot of talk lately in blogs, websites and magazines about the need to get releases whenever you step outside to shoot.

10 Tips for Great Interviews

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 PST

Following basic interview techniques and tips and knowing when and how to use them keeps your project moving forward. This story offers 10 video interview…

Commercial Production

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 PST

Producing a television commercial is as much about client relations as it is about creativity and the ability to sell a product or service to the viewer.

Producing and Directing the Short Film and Video

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Whether you're a student or an independent filmmaker, this practical guide will demystify the process, and help you to develop and sharpen your skills as you…

Black Professional-Casual Camp Shirt

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Embroidered Videomaker logo above the pocket. A great way to identify yourself as the professional videographer at Event/Formal shoots.

Black Cap

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Stylish FlexFit design with embroidered Videomaker logo. When shooting outside, most directors wear baseball-style caps for practical reasons. Why not make…

Making Music Videos (DVD)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Music videos are full of potential. They can help make a name for an artist, and can also launch the video producer to stardom as well. To help get your career…

Book of Forms - Scripts (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Videomaker's Complete Book of Forms contains 91 essential forms to make shooting and producing video easier. The following is one section of the Complete Book…

Book of Forms - Production Planning Forms (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Videomaker's Complete Book of Forms contains 91 essential forms to make shooting and producing video easier. The following is one section of the Complete Book…

Book of Forms - Lighting Plot (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Videomaker's Complete Book of Forms contains 91 essential forms to make shooting and producing video easier. The following is one section of the Complete Book…

Book of Forms - Release Forms (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Videomaker's Complete Book of Forms contains 91 essential forms to make shooting and producing video easier. The following is one section of the Complete Book…

The Videomaker Complete Book of Forms (Digital) (eBook)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Videomaker's Complete Book of Forms contains 92 essential forms to help you plan, get organized, stay legal, and ask the right questions. Download to your…

10 Steps to the Best Video for Worship (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Churchgoers around the world are experiencing a transformation. Many worship services now incorporate video elements, and there are several reasons for the…

Directing Children (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Directing children for your video can try your patience. In this edoc, we will look at some tips on directing children: things to avoid and ways to use their…

Directing Documentaries (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

This edoc explores how to direct a documentary with tips on equipment, shooting, sound and interviewing.

Multicam Shooting (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Whether it's shooting a wedding, baseball game, church service or two-person interview, shooting it with more than one camera can be a time-saving and very…

Documentary Making Tips - Character Development (VOD)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

This Video On Demand highlights Documentary making tips on how to develop characters that keep your audience interested in the story.

Access Challenges for Documentary Makers (VOD)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Gaining access to people or places is one of the main challenges documentary makers face when making their movies. These tips should help you find your way.

Business Opportunities in Event Videography (VOD)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

There are many opportunities in event videography in addition to wedding videos. Today videographers are getting jobs videotaping theatrical performances,…

Documentary Production: Equipment and Crew - Finding Crews (VOD)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Having a good crew behind you can help you to not only get the shots you need, but get them on time as well. To help you find good crews, we'll first go over…

Tutorials - How to Block Shots

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 11:35:26 PST

Before you start to roll camera, you and your team need to know what the actors will be doing and where they'll be positioned. This step is called blocking,…

Risky Business - Film and Video Insurance

Wed, 01 Feb 2012 00:00:00 PST

Don't put your livelihood and creativity at risk. Film and video insurance is a must for most video business people, to protect you, and your product.

Tutorials - How to Cast a Video Production

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 13:43:15 PST

Here we show you how to bring your characters to life by casting the best talent you can for your production. We show you where to look for actors, and walk…

Blocking People

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 PST

How do successful movie directors get their actors to move and interact so naturally? By blocking the scene and giving the actors good direction concerning…

Tutorials - Directing Music Video Shoots

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 09:05:57 PDT

Directing music videos requires the skillful mixing of three rare traits: a good sense of style and creativity, strong leadership, and an extensive knowledge…

Essentials for New Directors

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 PDT

The term "director" can conjure images of someone with a megaphone, barking orders, looking harried and perhaps sweating profusely - even swearing.

Interviewing Tips

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 PDT

Whether you're interviewing your family for grandma and grandpa's 50th anniversary, the CEO of a business for a training video, or even a politician for a news…

Interviewing Your Parents

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 00:00:00 PDT

Imagine talking to your ancestors - the ones who "crossed the water", "traversed a continent", "built a dynasty" to get you where you are today. What would you…

Six Tips to Directing Talent

Fri, 01 Jul 2011 00:00:00 PDT

Most people aren't pros trained to appear on camera, so you need to learn successful tricks to getting your "talent" to say and do what you want - even without talent.

Tutorials - How to Set Up Lights and Microphones for Documentary Interviews

Tue, 10 May 2011 13:35:58 PDT

To help you get started with your documentary interviews, we show you the equipment you'll need, give you some tips on making a room look good, tell you what…

Tutorials - How to Manage and Direct your Video Crew for your Documentary

Tue, 19 Apr 2011 08:31:14 PDT

Keeping a crew happy results in a more efficient and stress-free production. In order to help you do just that, we'll go over some ways to hold useful…

Green Screen Directing

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 00:00:00 PST

Anyone who desires to direct a Hollywood-like movie on an independent budget can do so, now that green screen technology has become easier to produce.

Tips for Making Professional Looking Interviews

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:00:00 PST

From having only one camcorder at your disposal to preparing your interview subject, these tips used by the pros can help you record a professional interview&he…

Inspiring Directors

Sat, 01 Jan 2011 00:00:00 PST

While learning to become a director, our author has received sage advice from his mentor and friend, Ron Howard that he shares with Videomaker readers.

Interview Styles

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 00:00:00 PST

Interviews on TV are quite common, and not just during the news. Interviews are so popular, entire shows are built around the idea of one person asking another…

How to Make a Documentary: Part 3 - Shooting and Editing

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 00:00:00 PDT

Almost everyone who has a story to tell dreams about making a documentary at some time. Bringing that dream to fruition can become a reality now that the…

How to Make a Documentary: Part 2 - Funding, Financing and Budgeting

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 00:00:00 PDT

Once you are bitten by the documentary bug, you might see all sorts of stories you think you can make a doc on. But before you shoot that very first frame, you…

Talking the Talk: Director to DP

Sat, 01 May 2010 00:00:00 PDT

Long shot, wide shot and medium closeup are just the beginning of communicating to the DP, your Director of Photography. Talking the talk takes a lot more…

Protecting Kids' Identities

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:00 PST

There's no problem videotaping your own children or those that you personally know, but what if you have a need to shoot children on a playground or in a…

Tips and Techniques - Business Opportunities in Event Videography

Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:16:29 PDT

There are many opportunities in event videography in addition to wedding videos. Today videographers are getting jobs videotaping theatrical performances,…

What you need to start a videography business

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 00:00:00 PDT

The mindset and video equipment you will need to start a videography business and make money with videos as a professional videographer.

Tips for Directing Non-Professionals

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Lights. Camera. Action. You hope. Directing professional talent isn't easy, but they usually know their jobs. Non-actors require a different set of skills.

Directing Children

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 00:00:00 PST

Directing children for your video can try your patience, as they are easily distracted, need plenty of visual instruction and communicate differently from…

The Director and the DP

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 00:00:00 PDT

As a solo artist, what happens when you land a gig with a budget for crew? Your most important relationship will be with your Director of Photography.

Small Crew Directing

Fri, 01 Aug 2008 00:00:00 PDT

Someday, you may have to hire, beg, borrow or coerce some people to join you on your video adventure. Keep it friendly, stick with a plan and you - and they -…

Directing the Documentary, 5th Edition (Print)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Directing the Documentary is the definitive and comprehensive book on the form, offering timeless principles that will improve your work. Ideal for documentary&…

Creating Characters (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Telling a powerful story with video does not require professional actors or people experiencing extraordinary events. But it does hinge on making your…

Producing a Documentary Part 1 (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Learn how to move your story from dream to distribution! Do you have a compelling story to tell? Planning is the first step to creating your documentary and we'…

Producing a Documentary Part 2 (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

From dream to distribution Part 2! Explore your vision. In this second part, we'll take a look at details such as casting, shooting, sound, and more. Written…

Mastering the Documentary Interview (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

This overview explores the different types of interviews commonly used in documentaries and tips & techniques for successfully shooting them.

Documentary Interviews: Shooting on Location (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

When you get involved and direct powerful interviews and shoot compelling video, you have the makings of a great Cinéma Vérité style documentary.

Moving Performances (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Performing starts with movement and smooth moves on camera that demand some tricks of the trade. When normally graceful people get on-camera, they can turn…

Videomaker's Vidcast eBook (eBook)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

Plan, shoot, edit and distribute your vidcast on the web successfully!

Wedding Videoland (eDoc)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

A light-hearted look at wedding video. The Goal: Create a top-notch video keepsake that will be treasured for generations to come.

Interview Lighting (VOD)

Wed, 15 Feb 2012 22:38:22 PST

This Video On Demand highlights how to light and set up a mullti-cam interview with easy to follow step-by-step instruction.

10 Voiceover Tips

Sat, 01 Mar 2008 00:00:00 PST

Voiceovers are the mainstays of advertising, instruction and promotional videos, television programs and feature films.

Halloween Hijinks with Videomaker's Hideous Video Horrors!

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 00:00:00 PDT

Something wicked this way comes.

10 Steps to the Best Video for Worship

Sat, 01 Sep 2007 00:00:00 PDT

Shooting within the confines of a live event can try the patience of Job. But pulling it off is heavenly joy.

Charity Video

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 00:00:00 PDT

For aspiring video producers, it's always hard to find some interesting subject matter. Are you looking for an audience?

Multicam Shooting

Sun, 01 Jul 2007 00:00:00 PDT

Whether it's shooting a wedding, baseball game, church service or two-person interview, shooting it with more than one camera can be a time-saving and very…

Videotaping Sporting Events

Tue, 01 May 2007 00:00:00 PDT

Football, baseball, hockey, tennis. Swimming, cycling, running and lacrosse. Sports shooting is an art unto itself, and every sport has shooting hurdles to…

Tutorials - Compose Better Video Shots Using Leading Lines and Rack Focus

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 10:37:03 PST

Though art can be made in many forms, there are some concepts that hold true in every situation. Because of this, it can be very helpful to know the principles…

Directing a Fall

Sun, 01 Apr 2007 00:00:00 PDT

Physical comedy has been a hallmark of the film industry since the early days of the silent film.

Directing Child Actors

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 15:43:38 PST

Director Jaume Collet-Serra discusses the difficulties of directing children and techniques for getting great performances.

Working with an Editor: A Conversation with Jeff Marcello

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 13:58:43 PST

A feature film and TV editor discusses how to make post production easier through proper planning and good practices throughout all production phases. This&hell…

Low Budget Indie Filmmaking : How to Cast a Movie

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 13:46:49 PST

Tips for low budget casting options.

A Conversation with Tze Chun Part I: Casting Child Actors

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 13:32:39 PST

Tips to consider when casting children in your video.

Video Camera Shooting Tips

Fri, 19 Nov 2010 17:01:16 PST

Short but sweet, this video discusses camcorder controls, tips for better composition, and many more basic camera-operating tips to keep in mind while shooting.…

Lock your Doors! Video Horror Stories are Back!

Sun, 01 Oct 2006 00:00:00 PDT

From dropping a mic out of a helicopter over a raging forest fire to stumbling into a cesspool full of... Well...you know...a decades-long career as a news…

Recruiting Talent

Tue, 01 Aug 2006 00:00:00 PDT

One of the most difficult, important and rewarding things a director has to do is find, recruit and work with talent.

Tutorials - Wedding Videography: How to Prepare for Shooting the Ceremony

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 13:27:03 PDT

You may thinking that shooting weddings is all about the ceremony, but there is a lot more involved than meets the eye. We will go over meeting with the…

7 Ways to Involve the Kids

Sat, 01 Jul 2006 00:00:00 PDT

Children love to make videos, all they need is the impetus and opportunity. So take the camera out of the closet on a lazy Sunday and say

Dual-Role Directing

Thu, 01 Jun 2006 00:00:00 PDT

Multitasking when you are directing is not easy but sometimes necessary. Here are a few suggestions.

How to Stop Bad Interview Audio from Sinking your Video Production

Sat, 01 Mar 1997 00:00:00 PST

There's more to recording good interviews than meets the ear.

Pause: Video is Other People

Sat, 01 Jul 1995 00:00:00 PDT

Video is Other People

The Right Reading: Finding Your Video's Voice

Thu, 01 Dec 1994 00:00:00 PST

Learn how an engaging voice over can add professionalism and impact to your videos. Whether you hire help or do it your self, it pays to find your video's…

Picking Your Approach

Sat, 01 Jul 1995 00:00:00 PDT

Documentary? News magazine? Talk show? Sitcom? Here's how to choose an approach that will help your video get its message across clearly and effectively.

Sound Reasoning: Interview Audio

Wed, 01 Feb 1995 00:00:00 PST

Interview Audio

Getting Started: Sideline Video: Shooting Sports

Sun, 01 Dec 1996 00:00:00 PST

Videotaping sports events can be just as challenging as the games themselves. Here's a few hints to help you hit a home run with your viewers.

Camera Work: On with the Show!

Fri, 01 Dec 1995 00:00:00 PST

On with the Show!

Camera Work: People

Fri, 01 Sep 1995 00:00:00 PDT

People

Prompting Your Talent: A Look at Cue Cards, Paper Scrolls and Computer Screens

Sun, 01 Jan 1995 00:00:00 PST

A prompter is a sure-fire way to add professionalism to your videos. Jim Stinson surveys the prompter field, from low-buck to high-tech.

Talent Quest: Finding Real Talent for Serious Productions

Wed, 01 Nov 1995 00:00:00 PST

Finding real talent for serious productions requires homework, planning and a little bit of patience. Here's how it's done.

Special Occasions: Capturing That Special Event

Wed, 01 Oct 1997 00:00:00 PDT

It doesn't take a closet full of expensive video equipment to produce satisfying results. The most important components - thorough preparation and a well…

Routes to Roots: Easy Video Family Histories

Sat, 01 Aug 1998 00:00:00 PDT

More and more families are realizing the benefits of video family histories. By combining those old photos and some simple interview techniques, you can make…

The Unblinking Eye: Seven Keys to Good On-camera Delivery

Mon, 01 Dec 1997 00:00:00 PST

Find out what separates a bad on-camera presentation from a masterful one. With a little practice, you'll be on your way to shooting viewer-pleasing videos.

Make 'Em Look Good: How To Coach On-camera Subjects

Thu, 01 Jan 1998 00:00:00 PST

Few people are comfortable when they face camcorders. This article explains how you can put Nervous Nellies and Difficult Dans at ease and encourage their best&…

Crafting Skillful Interviews

Sun, 01 Feb 1998 00:00:00 PST

Need to shoot an important interview? Learn the craft of staging interviews for the camera by following these expert techniques.

Projects That Pay: Personal Histories: Video for Future Generations

Sun, 01 Feb 1998 00:00:00 PST

Video histories can be a unique and profitable way to record life's precious moments.

Low Budgets and High Hopes

Fri, 01 May 1998 00:00:00 PDT

Great advice on how to make a low budget documentary.

Special F/X: (Sort of) Via Satellite

Fri, 01 May 1998 00:00:00 PDT

The secret to staging remote interviews without a network television budget.

Book and Tape Reviews

Fri, 01 May 1998 00:00:00 PDT

Footage: The Worldwide Moving Image SourcebookComplete Camcorder Troubleshooting and RepairThe Essential TV Director's Handbook

Quiet in the House!: A (Floor) Plan for Better Audio

Sat, 01 Aug 1998 00:00:00 PDT

Hickory-dickory-doc, how come I keep hearing that clock? Tips for muffling those troublesome background noises when shooting interviews around the house.

How to Produce Spectacular Home Videos � A Practical Guide

Tue, 01 Sep 1998 00:00:00 PDT

Produce Spectacular Home Videos: A Practical Guide for Camcorder Users, On Assignment: The Video Guide to Basic Videography, Directing Single Camera Drama

Book and Tape Reviews

Thu, 01 Oct 1998 00:00:00 PDT

Complete Guide to VideoDirecting and Producing for Television: A Format ApproachEasy Home Videos

Ten Tips For Fabulous Fiction: Some Common Sense Approaches to Successful Story Videos

Thu, 01 Oct 1998 00:00:00 PDT

The thought of producing the Great American Masterpiece comes easier than the actual production. Here are some clues that can help you realize your epic dream.

Edit Suite: Shaping Performance through Editing

Sun, 01 Nov 1998 00:00:00 PST

Simple tricks for editing complicated dialogue.

Shoot that Show

Tue, 01 Dec 1998 00:00:00 PST

If you've watched a movie or music awards telecast you know that videotaping audiotorium shows is a fine art. We'll share some practical tips for shooting plays, recitals and concerts this holiday season.

Live to Tape: A Case Study in Live Multi-camera Production

Mon, 01 Feb 1999 00:00:00 PST

Three guys produced a weekly television show in a basement studio. From cabling to the final take, here�s how they pulled off a studio-style multi-camera shoot.

Direct Like the Masters

Thu, 01 Apr 1999 00:00:00 PST

What you can�t teach through formal instruction, you can often transmit through apprenticeship to a master artist--a master like Spielberg, Chaplin or…

Lighting Human Faces Requires Special Attention

Tue, 01 Jun 1999 00:00:00 PDT

Faces present a special kind of lighting challenge to the videographer.

Seven Tips for Impeccable Interviews

Thu, 01 Jul 1999 00:00:00 PDT

Make your guests feel at ease so they�ll open up and give you engaging interviews.

Writing Effective Narration

Wed, 01 Dec 1999 00:00:00 PST

When the images alone don�t tell the whole story: 10 tips for writing crisp and clear narration.

Record Crisp Interview Audio for a Better Production

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 00:00:00 PST

When it comes to video interviews, audio is king.

Instructional Video: It's All About Approach

Tue, 01 Feb 2000 00:00:00 PST

Instructional videos are popular with videographers and viewers, but without a clear approach you can feel lost

20 Tips for Directing Talent

Wed, 01 Mar 2000 00:00:00 PST

Get the best performance from amateur talent using these 20 helpful hints for better directing.

Video Profiles: Stories Waiting To Be Told

Mon, 01 May 2000 00:00:00 PDT

Discover how to capture the personal insights of people in your life who have interesting stories to tell.

Curtains Calling: Videotaping Plays and Recitals

Thu, 01 Jun 2000 00:00:00 PDT

Shooting the stage can be a fun, valuable and even profitable way to utilize your production skills.

Interview Techniques

Sat, 01 Jul 2000 00:00:00 PDT

The art of the video interview.

Lights, Camera, Action!

Sun, 01 Oct 2000 00:00:00 PDT

Directing isn't as easy as it looks. Here are some practical tips.

Light Source: Advanced Techniques for Lighting Faces

Tue, 01 Aug 2000 00:00:00 PDT

Light placement can have a dramatic impact on the faces you light.

The Multi-Camera Shoot

Fri, 01 Sep 2000 00:00:00 PDT

Helpful hints for mixing multiple cameras live to tape.

Got a Match?

Fri, 01 Sep 2000 00:00:00 PDT

Tips and tricks for seamlessly cutting together footage shot in different places on different days.

Light Source: News-style Lighting

Sun, 01 Oct 2000 00:00:00 PDT

Tips to help you create great lighting for your news set. Strategies for anchors, sports and the weather.

Six Kid-friendly Home Video Ideas

Fri, 01 Dec 2000 00:00:00 PST

Six good home video ideas for family fun.

Sound Advice: Audio for Interviews

Thu, 01 Feb 2001 00:00:00 PST

Good interviews require good audio. Here are some practical tips to help you get great sound.

Take 5: Five Tips for Better Interviews

Tue, 01 May 2001 00:00:00 PDT

Five Tips for Better Interviews

The Kindness of Strangers: Working with Amateur Cast & Crew

Tue, 01 May 2001 00:00:00 PDT

Practical strategies for keeping your paid and unpaid volunteers happy under a rigorous schedule.

Sound Advice: Live-performance Audio

Fri, 01 Jun 2001 00:00:00 PDT

Achieving crisp, high-quality sound to compliment your live concert video merely takes a little planning.

Sound Advice: Recording and Editing Narration

Sun, 01 Jul 2001 00:00:00 PDT

High-quality narration can be an invaluable asset to your video projects.

Lighting Faces with Better Video Results

Wed, 01 Aug 2001 00:00:00 PDT

Basic three-point lighting techniques provide practical solutions to common lighting challenges.

Laptop Prompters

Sat, 01 Sep 2001 00:00:00 PDT

Learn how to prepare your laptop computer to perform as a script-prompter.

Computer Editing: Multi-Camera Editing

Sat, 01 Dec 2001 00:00:00 PST

Here are some helpful hints for editing multi-camera footage into a finished production.

Home Video Hints: Simple Steps for Camcorder Care

Mon, 01 Oct 2001 00:00:00 PDT

Keeping your video equipment in tip-top shape can save you big bucks down the road.

Make-up for Video

Wed, 01 May 2002 00:00:00 PDT

Practical make-up tips that you can apply in 10 minutes or less.

Home Video Hints: Videotaping Children

Fri, 01 Feb 2002 00:00:00 PST

Make compelling home videos, not just boring, uninspired raw footage.

Finding Talent for Videos

Fri, 01 Nov 2002 00:00:00 PST

A handy guide to finding, auditioning and hiring the best performers for your next production.

Light Source: Lighting for Chromakey

Mon, 01 Apr 2002 00:00:00 PST

Lighting is one of the most important aspects of bringing realism to your chromakey scene.

Shooting an Interview TV-Style

Mon, 01 Jul 2002 00:00:00 PDT

You can shoot a television-style interview with a single camcorder and a little creativity.

Shaping Actor Performances

Sun, 01 Sep 2002 00:00:00 PDT

Many actors, like pieces of clay, need to be molded and prodded into perfect form. Your job as director is to recognize actor shortcomings and decide what kind&…

Light Source: One Location, Five Different Looks

Sun, 01 Sep 2002 00:00:00 PDT

Even in a small office studio, you can attain a variety of looks and moods for your video.

A Word from Our Announcer: On-Camera Speaking Tips

Tue, 01 Oct 2002 00:00:00 PDT

Everyone on TV, from newsreaders to ad spokespersons to documentary narrators, practices the craft of speaking on-camera. Talking to an audience from the TV&hel…

Light Source: Three-Point Lighting in the Real World

Wed, 01 Jan 2003 00:00:00 PST

It's not just a theory: check out these pragmatic three-point lighting tips in action.

Sound Advice: Interview Audio

Sat, 01 Mar 2003 00:00:00 PST

Tools and techniques to create high quality audio for your interviews.

Videography 101: Videotaping Live Events.

Sat, 01 Mar 2003 00:00:00 PST

Switch to a second camera set on a safe shot with a standalone switcher.

Faking a Big Fall

Thu, 01 May 2003 00:00:00 PDT

Toss an actor from a building without breaking his neck... or the bank.

Stealth Directing: Getting the Most out of Real People

Sun, 01 Jun 2003 00:00:00 PDT

When directing amateurs, you use different techniques than when working with pros.

Communication: The Foundation of Production

Sat, 01 Nov 2003 00:00:00 PST

The most important thing a director has to do is communicate.

Multi-camera Event Taping

Wed, 01 Oct 2003 00:00:00 PDT

How to hook up for a multi-camera shoot.

Directing to Edit

Mon, 01 Sep 2003 00:00:00 PDT

By anticipating your editor's needs and shooting footage to fulfill them, you can help create a better program--and a happier editor.

Test Bench:JonyJib JonyPrompter Prompting Device

Thu, 01 Apr 2004 00:00:00 PST

JonyJib JonyPrompter Prompting Device

Sound Advice: Speaking Tips

Mon, 01 Mar 2004 00:00:00 PST

Twelve tips for recording the spoken word.

Church Video: Lights, Camera, Worship

Tue, 01 Jun 2004 00:00:00 PDT

You'll never walk alone: a pragmatic guide to worship video from those who have gone before.

From Shot Lists to Storyboards

Tue, 01 Jun 2004 00:00:00 PDT

Organizing your project before you shoot can save you time during the edit stage.

Recruiting Talent

Sat, 01 May 2004 00:00:00 PDT

Quality talent means more than just a quality performance. It may mean the difference between a one-hour shoot and a four-hour marathon.

Wardrobe & Make-Up

Thu, 01 Sep 2005 00:00:00 PDT

Looking Good: Tips for the Director

Sound Advice: Microphone Matrix

Mon, 01 Nov 2004 00:00:00 PST

Mixing multiple audio sources for live video.

Video Production Tips

Sat, 01 Oct 2005 00:00:00 PDT

Many of the little things that you learn from from a lifetime of planning, directing, editing and producing videos can easily be applied to life as a whole.

Movie and Video Production Planning Part 2

Sun, 01 May 2005 00:00:00 PDT

Part 2 of a 3 part series on movie and video production planning.

Total Directing Covers All Aspects of the Craft

Sat, 01 Oct 2005 00:00:00 PDT

New Titles - Technology of V/A Streaming & Total Directing

Making the Most from Outtakes

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 PST

(gales of laughter erupt on the set.) CUT! Somebody PLEASE help Jimmy untangle the rope from his foot, re-stack all those bottles of motor oil and, somebody…

Who's in Charge Here?

Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:00:00 PST

You don't need puffy pants and a megaphone to be an assertive, successful director. But you do need to take control.

Game Plan: How to Get Once-In-a-Lifetime Tapings Right the First Time!

Mon, 01 May 1989 00:00:00 PDT

Techniques from 10 Famous Filmmakers

Thu, 01 Feb 1990 00:00:00 PST

The Director: The Guy Who Makes it All Come Together

Tue, 01 May 1990 00:00:00 PDT

Interviewing for a Job

Mon, 01 Oct 1990 00:00:00 PDT

Fight Video Fright

Tue, 01 Jan 1991 00:00:00 PST

Kid Vid - The Delicate Art of Taping Children

Tue, 01 Feb 1994 00:00:00 PST

Matching Talent With Your Needs

Tue, 01 Feb 1994 00:00:00 PST

It's All About Direction

Fri, 01 Apr 1994 00:00:00 PST

TV Show - Dr. Doug's Happy Filter

Sat, 01 Jan 2000 08:00:48 PST

Dr. Doug wants you to turn that frown upside down!

Tutorials - Best Lighting Arrangements for Great Interviews

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 17:05:15 PDT

Tutorial on how to light and set up a multi-cam interview with easy to follow step-by-step instruction

Documentary Interview Tips

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 00:00:00 PDT

The key to a good documentary interview is to listen. Maintain eye contact with your subject. Do not look down at your notes or settle for generalizations.

Tips and Techniques - Tips for How to Win a Video Contest

Mon, 18 May 2009 08:04:45 PDT

Essential guidelines and tips to follow in order to win a video contest.

Tips and Techniques - How to Start a Wedding Video Business

Mon, 04 May 2009 10:52:13 PDT

Key things videographers should consider in order to succeed in the wedding video business.

Tips and Techniques - Getting Location Access for Documentary Makers

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:27:13 PDT

Gaining access to people or places is one of the main challenges documentary makers face when making their movies. These tips should help you find your way.

Tips and Techniques - Documentary Making Tips - Character Development

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 18:57:23 PDT

Documentary making tips on how to develop characters that keep your audience interested in the story.

Tips and Techniques - Story, Character and Access in Documentary Storytelling

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 11:19:51 PDT

Learn about the key ingredients documentary makers use for successful documentary storytelling.

Tips and Techniques - How to Tell a Video Story with Green Screen

Fri, 09 Jan 2009 11:04:25 PST

Learn how to apply greenscreen effects to a window, windshield or door. Examine how we planned out our video shoot to utilize a greenscreen to create an…

Tips and Techniques - How to Simulate an Earthquake for Video

Fri, 31 Oct 2008 11:28:05 PDT

Some simple tips on re-creating an earthquake.

Tips and Techniques - How to Add Bullet Holes to Your Videos

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:58:31 PDT

How to make realistic bullet effects using Adobe Photoshop and Premiere instead of explosives.

Tips and Techniques - Gun Muzzle Flashes & Blast Sounds

Fri, 17 Oct 2008 18:04:19 PDT

Adding gun muzzle flashes and blast sounds to your shootout scenes is easy to do in post production. Learn how to build intensity using post-production editing…

Tips and Techniques - Mic Live Events for Best Audio Capture

Fri, 16 May 2008 09:10:13 PDT

Mark explores the best ways to get good sound while shooting a live event.

Tips and Techniques - Use Lavalier or Handheld Microphone to Get Good interview Audio

Fri, 02 May 2008 11:50:39 PDT

Jennifer and Mark demonstrate some techniques for getting good sound during an interview.

Directing Documentaries

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 PDT

Documentaries are about real people in real places doing real things. Documentaries were the first films ever made.

Creating Characters

Tue, 01 Apr 2008 00:00:00 PDT

Getting the Most Out of Your Actors or Subjects

Tips and Techniques - Common Errors in Continuity Editing

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 12:13:16 PST

Jennifer discusses things to watch out for in the Preproduction, Shooting & Post-Production stages to avoid common continuity errors. (Repeat)

Tips and Techniques - Sped-Up Background Effect for Video

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 10:17:58 PST

John demonstrates how to evoke "calm in a chaotic world" with this easy effect.

Wedding VideoLand

Wed, 01 Aug 2007 00:00:00 PDT

A lighthearted Look at Wedding Video.

Tips and Techniques - Make Lower Thirds and Bugs for Corporate Videos

Fri, 20 Jul 2007 23:18:15 PDT

John introduces us to tips from our DVD series, with a look at style, types making effective lower thirds and bugs; including good Style and animation…

Tips and Techniques - How to Make Interviews Interesting with Single Camera Set-Up

Sat, 05 May 2007 01:21:21 PDT

In our Tips & Tricks segment, Jennifer demonstrates a couple quick interviewing tips.

Tips and Techniques - Deceptive Shooting with Shooting Angles Part 2

Sat, 07 Apr 2007 01:00:50 PDT

Mark and Andrew are back with part 2 of deceptive shooting: this installment is how to use depth of field to realistically shoot fake fights.

Producing Your Own Vidcast for Video Sharing Part Two - Production

Sun, 01 Apr 2007 00:00:00 PDT

Podcasting, vidcasting, vodcasting or whatever you call it, the Internet

Moving Performances

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 00:00:00 PST

Learn how to set the stage so that your subjects behave naturally in front of the camera.

Choosing a Video Switcher

Sat, 01 Jul 2006 00:00:00 PDT

Key factors to consider when buying a video switcher

Shooting an Interview

Wed, 01 Mar 2006 00:00:00 PST

It might not be 60 Minutes, (more like 15 minutes!) but if you want to make your interviews shine like Ed Bradley's on CBS, read on!

How to Make a Documentary - Part 1

Sat, 01 Apr 2006 00:00:00 PST

Few other communication forms have the power to reveal a unique perspective, capture imagination and even motivate change. In this 3-part series on how to make…

How to Make a Documentary Part II

Mon, 01 May 2006 00:00:00 PDT

Considered an art form by many, documentary video production has its own special challenges and rewards. In this second of three parts on how to make a…

Making Documentary Videos: The Interview

Sat, 01 Apr 2006 00:00:00 PST

How to use Cinéma Vérité techniques to make compelling documentaries