This past week, we had the pleasure of working with Barry Brewer Jr. (Our client of 3 years) in Chicago on a special project. During the show, we learned some valuable lessons about using a 3-camera setup. Every shoot comes with its unique challenges, and no two setups are exactly alike. Here’s what we took away from the experience and a few tips to help ensure your next event shoot goes smoothly.
1. Preparation is Key – Start with a Sound Check
The first step to a successful shoot is getting to the venue early, ideally 2-3 hours before the show. One of the most important things to do right off the bat is a sound check. You need to connect with the sound technician or Audio Engineer (AR) to confirm they can provide you with the necessary audio feed. This is critical because bad audio can ruin an otherwise visually flawless production. Ensure you know whether the audio will be sent to you and in what format.
2. Map Out Your Angles
Once the audio is locked down, it’s time to focus on your visuals. Every venue is different, and you’ll need to scope out where the best camera positions are. Consider the type of shots you want, whether it's wide crowd shots or tight, intimate angles of the performers or speakers. This is where your vision for the event comes to life, as your camera placement will dictate the flow of the final product.
3. Respect the Venue
Not all venues are auditoriums with open space. Some might have waiters, moving guests, or even tight seating arrangements. If the event is in a restaurant or similar environment, you’ll need to make sure your cameras aren’t obstructing anyone's view or movement. A stationary camera in a discreet yet effective spot is often your best bet in these situations.
4. Configuring the Camera Setup
When it comes to the actual 3-camera setup, you’ll need to decide if your cameras will be stationary or manually operated. If you’re moving the cameras around, it’s crucial to think about how you’ll pan and frame shots during the event. A well-thought-out camera plan ensures you're capturing all the critical moments without missing a beat.
5. Power and Memory: Be Ready for the Long Haul
Nothing kills a shoot like a dead camera. Ensure your batteries are fully charged well before the event starts, and have extra ones on hand, especially if you expect the event to run long. It’s also essential to double-check that your memory cards are ready and have enough storage to last the entire event. A quick check before the show can save you a lot of headaches later.
6. Showtime: Final Prep and Execution
As showtime approaches, give yourself a 30-minute buffer to be fully ready. This isn’t the time to scramble with last-minute adjustments. Your cameras should be set, charged, and pointed exactly where you need them. This is your moment to shine for your client, and being fully prepared ensures you’ll capture the event perfectly.
Remember, each event presents its own challenges, but with careful preparation and flexibility, you can deliver a flawless shoot every time. At Steeze Marketing, we’re always learning and adapting to make sure we exceed client expectations—every shoot, every time.
For more visit www.steezemarketing.com
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