Video Production Principals (Part 2)

Introduction

In this article we cover the benefits of using multiple camera angles, the costs and the benefit of shooting in higher resolutions to double your main angle.

This article is part of a series: Video Production Principals (Part 1) – On-camera angle vs off-camera angle.

Single camera angle vs multiple camera angles

We quite often watch something on the screen that was filmed with a single camera. Documentaries come to mind.

We follow the action and, through the single camera lens, become an observer to the scene. Normally, there are a few cut points though. Wide shots and close ups are shown to both orientate and focus the viewer’s attention to certain elements.

Having only one continuous camera angle without noticeable interruptions is like watching a play on a stage. If the content that’s shown is consistently engaging enough, it can work.

Benefits of using several camera angles

Using multiple camera angles when filming an interview, event or presentation (practically anything that does not tolerate interruptions very well) offers several benefits:

Multiple camera angles create engagement

Overall, using multiple camera angles can greatly enhance the quality and impact of the content, making it more engaging and informative for viewers.

How much more does it cost to add additional camera angles?

On most shoots, the single most expensive item by far is labour. People need to be booked in advance for a minimum time frame.

The required video equipment might entail many items besides the main camera kit. Lighting, audio and transportation also need to be considered. It’s a good idea to ask your videographer for a detailed quote that lists those elements separately, so you’ll get the full picture.

You’ll might find a second or even third camera kit to be more affordable than expected. Especially if the additional cameras can be ‘locked off’, eliminating the need for extra operators. This will allow the operator of the main camera to quickly find the next close up shot, while side-, mid- or wide angles are simultaneously available as an alternative.

Doubling your main angle

(The benefit of filming in higher resolutions – for those who plan post production)

Before we discuss that idea, let’s do a quick refresh on video format resolutions.

You might still have some DVDs laying around. However, enjoying watching those recordings will very much depend on your modern TV’s upscaling abilities.

That’s because the video resolution of a DVD is tiny compared to modern productions that are usually at least filmed in full HD. It’s no surprise then that a single-layer DVD can only store up to 4.7 GB of data, while Blu-ray Discs (that utilise full HD) contain 25 GB per layer.

Check out the chart above.

So what about doubling that angle?

Let’s imagine you are planning to film an interview and your final video format is full HD (1080×1920).

Unfortunately, your interview partner is time poor and your budget does not allow for a second camera. In those circumstances, possible ‘upgrading’ your camera’s recording to the higher 4k format can make a big difference.

Upgrading to 4k allows to ‘crop’ into the vision during post production and, because you have ample real estate on your canvas, it works without losing quality.

Strictly speaking you still use the same angle. However, being able to significantly change the size of the shot has a huge impact. Now any time you would like to make an edit, you have the choice between the closer or the wider angle.

That’s it! You pretty much doubled the angle of your camera.

There is still some price to pay though. You also just quadrupled the amount of recording data in the process. So bear in mind that this practice will have an impact on data storage, transfer speeds and editing hardware requirements.