Choosing the right equipment for your video production can make a huge difference in the quality, efficiency, and creativity of your project. But how do you decide which cameras, lenses, and lighting to use in pre-production? In this article, you will learn some basic tips and factors to consider when selecting your gear for different scenarios and goals.
There are many types of cameras available for video production, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common ones are DSLRs, mirrorless, camcorders, cinema, and action cameras. Depending on your budget, style, and needs, you may prefer one over another. For example, DSLRs and mirrorless cameras offer great image quality, flexibility, and portability, but they may have limitations in recording time, audio, and autofocus. Camcorders are more convenient and reliable for long-form or live events, but they may lack the cinematic look and low-light performance of other cameras. Cinema cameras are designed for professional filmmaking, with high-end features, codecs, and dynamic range, but they are also expensive, bulky, and complex. Action cameras are small, durable, and versatile, but they may not offer the best control, stability, or sound.
Choosing the right camera for talking head videos is essential for achieving professional results. Consider DSLR or mirrorless cameras for their image quality, interchangeable lenses, and clean HDMI output. Opt for at least 1080p resolution and ensure good low-light performance. Reliable auto-focus and face detection are crucial, as is the option for external microphone support. A flip screen, image stabilization, and user-friendly interfaces enhance the shooting experience. Your choice should also align with your budget and post-processing capabilities. Popular options are the Canon EOS M50 II, Sony a7siii, Panasonic Lumix GH5, and the Logitech C920 for webcams. Check the latest models and reviews to make decisions.
Pretty much any camera that has come out in the last 5 years will be able to get the job done. Don't worry too much about having the latest and greatest - learn composition and lighting first.
I wouldn’t worry too much about type of camera, as most cameras that have come out in the last 3-5 years are ample sufficient in terms of quality and autofocus. The most important thing would be to pay attention to composition, storytelling and lighting to really drive the feeling you’re trying to convey. The only camera consideration I would worry about is full frame or crop sensor, as there are different lens considerations for each option.
The lens you use can affect the focal length, aperture, depth of field, distortion, and perspective of your video. Therefore, you need to choose a lens that matches your vision and purpose. Some of the factors to consider are the sensor size of your camera, the crop factor, the zoom range, the speed, and the image stabilization. For example, if you have a camera with a smaller sensor, you may need a wider lens to compensate for the crop factor. If you want to have more flexibility and versatility, you may opt for a zoom lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths. If you want to achieve a shallow depth of field or shoot in low-light conditions, you may need a fast lens with a large aperture. If you want to avoid shaky footage or use handheld shots, you may look for a lens with image stabilization.
For crisp and cinematic looks, the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II is a versatile choice for varied shooting conditions. The Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 is great for bokeh effects in interviews or product shots. For wide shots, the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens is great for its sharpness and speed. Each of these lenses brings something unique to the table, enhancing the visual storytelling of your video production.
Understanding how different focal lengths effect shots can determine which lenses you will use. Also, if you are shooting in a low light scenario you'll need a fast lens (larger aperture). Typically, you'll want to be able to cover 3 shots - wide, medium and tight.
Lens choice would depend on the type of project. An interview would most likely require an 80 or 90 mm for close ups and maybe a 35 or 50 for the wide. There are many consideration that come into play, and most are to do with what kind of emotion or feeling you’re trying to drive home. Another consideration would be location. Are you filming outdoors at night? You almost definitely need a fast lens like a 1.8 or 1.4.
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of video production, as it can create mood, atmosphere, contrast, and color. There are many types of lighting available, such as natural, artificial, continuous, or strobe. Depending on your location, time of day, and desired effect, you may need to use different lighting sources and modifiers. For example, if you are shooting outdoors, you may need to use natural light as your main source, and use reflectors, diffusers, or filters to modify it. If you are shooting indoors, you may need to use artificial light as your main source, and use softboxes, umbrellas, or gels to modify it. If you are shooting motion, you may need to use continuous light that stays on throughout the scene, and use dimmers, barn doors, or flags to control it. If you are shooting stills, you may need to use strobe light that flashes at a certain moment, and use triggers, sync cords, or wireless systems to activate it.
Softbox lighting is excellent for filming videos. They contain a diffuser material that scatters and softens the light, reducing harsh shadows and creating a gentle, even illumination. Use a stable light stand and position the softbox at an angle and distance relative to your subject and the desired effect. The closer the softbox is to the issue, the softer and more dramatic the light will be. Adjust the intensity of the light by changing the power settings on your light source. You can also modify it by adding grids or gels to create specific effects. Softbox lighting is excellent for interviews and product shots, as it offers a controlled and soft quality of light that enhances details while minimising shadows and highlights.
Choose lighting equipment based on the desired look of your project. Consider factors such as light intensity, color temperature, and control options. Learn how to use natural light to your advantage.
Video light sources are divided into two types: natural and artificial. Natural light from the sun is perfect during cloudy or overcast conditions, giving a soft, even appearance. However, its intensity and colour can change throughout the day. So it's often necessary to use artificial lights to enhance your setup. I recommend professional bi-colour LED lights. They can adjust between warm and cool light and are dimmable, making them ideal for matching natural light in any setting. Remember, all light has a colour temperature, measured in Kelvins (K), showing whether the light appears cooler (daylight is around 5500K) or warmer (tungsten bulbs are 3200K-ish). So make sure all your lights match in colour temperature for the best result!
The best way to go about choosing lighting options would be to know what kind of emotion your project is trying to convey. After that, the best thing to do (in my opinion) would be to look at references that match your vision on a platform like Shot Deck and analyze the lighting. Why do these references match the feeling you’re trying to achieve? Where is the light coming from? How does it fall on the subject? What is the contrast ratio? Why is the image composed the way it is? A helpful tip would be to save these references and import them into an NLE like Resolve and analyze them using the scopes.