I wanted to give a quick overview of how the Vincent’s workshop went and what I learned.

There were 16 attendees and we were split into 2 groups, 8 less experienced and 8 more experienced, and the idea was that in about an hour’s time we to decide who was doing what, story board and plan our shoots (using the 5DII and the 7D). Not a lot of time to do this. I was lucky enough to work with a great group and they wanted me to direct our project- a quick 12 second clip. It was completely rushed but otherwise it was a very fun project. I was able to get a copy of the original edited footage which I hope to post here shortly.

Sunday night, I sat down and made a list of the biggest things I learned:

– After storyboarding, practice the scene as much as possible. Reducing (all) errors when shooting can speed up post-production workflow.
– Story board with composition in mind – keep continuity of sides and positions.
– Its not so much the equipment, its the end result that matters.
– Accessories can really help shooting quality with SLRs
– Accessories will slow down set up times
– Slow set up times equate to fewer shots per day.
– Specialists (Camera Operators, Sound, Gaffers, etc) will typically improve production quality.
– Specialists – if not experienced, will increase workflow
– Keep your crew as small as possible, without sacrificing quality
– Storyboard, then plan shots around camera set ups- shoot non-linearly if possible to save time.
– If shooting non-linearly, plan and visualize each shot, especially the edits between shots
– When shooting, have the assistant get everything together for the next shot, if you are only using one camera.
– Get the safe shots first, then take the risky more dynamic shots.
– External Monitors for SLR video cameras are worth every penny
– You cannot underestimate the value of good talent in front of the camera.

Vince also went over many technical things when shooting and editing, but its just too much to post here. Ill see if I can get the footage up. 🙂