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How to decide on the number of cameras and their positioning?
Application techniques for multiple cameras with a small crew
We've just seen how one person can record
with up to four fixed cameras and a video mixer.
Now let's apply the same technique to several
different filming patterns when recording using
multiple cameras. The variables are the number
of people, camera positioning, what to record
and how to shoot it.
First, let's consider the number of cameras and
their positioning. The basic principle for
shooting is to accurately capture what is
happening on the stage and make it look great
■One man filming with two cameras
Pattern A
In this situation, cameras cannot be placed
near the stage as access is a problem for
replacing videotapes
O
N E
P
O I N T
●Develop your skill as a camera operator
The camera operator must decide what to shoot
when not directed with a tally and headset.
Develop your skill to constantly follow the action
and pay attention to what you hear to judge
who the main subject is and where to focus the
camera.
Another important point is to always use a tripod.
Filming with a tripod during a classical music
performance will work very well because the
audience generally sits quietly. But in a crowded
032
All filming is done from
the base. Camera 1 is the
main camera for zooming.
Camera 2 has a fixed wide
angle. Zooming and simple
video mixing is done from
the base. Use wide angle
shots from camera 2 at
the start and end of the
s o n g a n d u s e z o o m e d
shots from camera 1 in
the middle.
A
D V I C E
without missing anything. To accomplish that,
you need to consider what will take place
onstage and to anticipate the movements of
the main subject and the supporting members.
For example, at a piano recital or a lecture,
movement is easy to anticipate because the
main subject is mostly stationary. But at a live
c o n c e r t , y o u m a y n e e d t h r e e c a m e r a s
(preferably four or more) to capture the stage
activity without missing anything. Let's consider
the strategy required when filming with a one or
two man crew.
Pattern B
In this situation, a camera can be placed near
the stage as the camera is easily accessible to
replace the tape or an EDIROL F-1 is being used.
venue setting where the audience often gathers
near the stage, a tripod may not work well
because the audience could obscure the camera's
view, or a band member may suddenly jump off
the stage. In situations like these, be ready to
quickly shift the camera to the handheld position.
Handheld shots can feel like you' re part of the
action.
Filming in the handheld position can continue for
extended periods of time. You must creatively
avoid becoming tired. At a concert or club, you
can use the crowd control barriers or other fixed
C a m e r a 1 i s t h e
m a i n c a m e r a f o r
z o o m i n g f r o m t h e
base.
Camera 2 is
f i x e d i n a p o s i t i o n
close to the stage.
Place Camera 2 at the
best angle for framing
the main subject when
filming a vocalist or
piano player, etc.
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