Video Guidelines/Rules

Learning Goals:

    • Students will understand and apply video production guidelines that align with CLC curriculum
video camera

Throughout this course, we will talk about different video guidelines or rules. These guidelines are aligned with the video production curriculum at CLC. Rules are meant to be broken, but you have to understand the rule first.

Shot Types

Tripod Rule

This rule is pretty simple, use a tripod for all shots. Unless you are told otherwise, assume you should be using a tripod for all shooting assignments. In class, we'll look at basic use for the tripods. Remember, the tripods are meant to stabilize, but you shouldn't leave them unattended with the equipment mounted.

A related rule is no panning or zooming. You should physically move your setup.

tripod

12 Second Rule

watch

The 12 Second rule means that shots should be held for a minimum of 12 seconds. This will leave you with 3 seconds before your shot and 3 seconds after your shot that you can trim. You will have 6 seconds from the middle of your shot that is good quality (the middle of your shot will usually be the best).

Head Room & Nose Room (Lead Room)

In class, we'll discuss head room & nose room (lead room) and watch the video to the left.

The Assignment

In groups, you will create a video that demonstrates good and bad head room and nose room. Use this rubric to create a 'how to' video on head room and nose room.

Two Foot Rule and Booming

Having quality sound can make or break your video. When capturing audio of someone talking, keep the microphone within two feet. Using a shotgun mic and a boom pole will allow you to get close to your talent. In class, we'll watch the video about basic techniques for booming. Here is a link that provides more information.

Rule of Thirds

The rule of thirds is an important composition technique for both photo and video. We'll check out this video in class and practice this technique.

Four Two's Rule

This rule is pretty simple. Your goal is to get:

    • Two wide shots
    • Two medium shots
    • Two close shots
    • Two cut-away shots

Make sure to move between shots (being aware of the 30 and 180 degree rules). This would give you good basic shot coverage for your scene.