First thing – as explained above, the most important thing to remember are the 6 Ps.
Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance.
I always remember this one.
Second is your vision. In your head you have the end product. What does it look like?
Think in terms of what you need to do to to achieve it. Try to visualise each shot, and maybe even draw the old fashioned storyboards to focus your mind. Then go off and shoot it. As the Producer/Director/Cameraman, you can then make sure each shot earns it’s money. Regularly review what you are shooting and sign each shot off. I like to use an informal system 1, 2 and 3. Grade 1 means absolutely perfect. 2 Means not brilliant, but useable and 3 means unable to be used. Decide for yourself how many grade 2 shots you will allow through. If you don’t trust your judgement to be neutral because of your interest in the project, use an outsider who isn’t interested in the content, just the quality. One tip – if narration is required, resist the temptation to use your own voice – use somebody you can direct who sounds good. As far as equipment goes, does your kit produce good pictures and sound? If it does – get on with it. I’m working at about 70% 16:9. Most of my work is theatrical, and in some venues, the proscenium is a good match to 16:9, but in older venues, the height is greater, meaning it is more like 4:3. So I use the one most appropriate.
