Tips for relative newbie videographer

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Craig66

Contributor
Messages
644
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Location
New Jersey
# of dives
500 - 999
I have had some reasonable success at video but I am heading to Bonaire next month with RadHal and love the fact that we will be unhurried and with relatively low current and wmostly shallow dives but would love to get some tips from videographers (and photographers - RadHal does photos)to help improve my style.

Things I have figured out although not sure they are correct
1. Making use of slow motion can make videos seem more graceful and less chaotic
2. Being at same depth and level as my target also makes for better video
3. Video from above though easier is less optimal. Try different angles and try and approach slowly at same level and depth
4. Even when taking in a reef scene try and identify one feature to focus in on especially if moving in a current towards it
5. Take long videos of at least twenty seconds and if videoing a subject take a far off, I remediate and close up as you won't know what works until editing.
6. WATCH YOUR AIR and your buddy - something I really need to make sure my buddy and I are strict about especially as we will not be doing groups

Would love to hear from some of the experts/artists. Any specific tips related to Bonaire or any of it's sites. I am hoping to get lots of footage In the 30-50 ft range - good lighting and long dives.

Thanks
Craig.
 
Craig, Shoot most scenes from within inches of the bottom, if you want the rich colors of the coral reef to show in the video---meaning when you shoot a wreck or a diver or a shark ( whatever wide angle subjuect) , do not be 6 feet off the bottom...the higher up off the bottom you are, the more colors you will be losing.
 
Try to keep the sun behind you if possible.

If possible start filming ahead of your subject and pan onto it and off again b4 you stop filming - it will make for smoother transitions during editing.

Salt Pier around certain times of day has an amazing interplay of light/shadows between the pilings. You can get an idea here (not my videos): Blennylips Bonaire Dive Log Videos
 
White balance often. Go as wid angle as possible to reduce amount of water between you and subject (which also means being close). If shooting dslr wide angle you may need a diopter on the lens. When possible lock focus, especially if there is particulate in water (eg eels under a ledge) that way your subject will be in focus even with lots of focusing distractions. Keep the camera as steady and level as possible. As fun as small cameras like go pros are, most of the footage shot with them hard to watch because of shake. If you can film with one hand holding each side of he camera youll have a better chance of being more steady. Learn to lock exposure too if you'll be panning up or down purposely.

Don't be afraid to move the camera while filming. Underwater you can move the camera in 3 dimensions so why not try it. Just do so smoothly and as level as possible. Filming bubbles from above is always cool. Jumping in with the camera running can make for some great shots. Filming people (from above) as they swim over sand makes for great shots. Film while swimming thru or beside things.

Oil slick leap is a easy first shore dive. You can film people jumping in! There is a seemingly always present small bait ball at invisibles, I never grow tired of that dive. If you find a frogfish, get in close and let the camera run for awhile. I have discovered them extending thei lure - but only when re playing as it was so small and quick.

Definitely dive the wildside one day. The ride out makes for some great video and surge on the swim out of the hole is awesome plus turtles, tarpon and dolphins on our single dive. Plus the windsurfers, water color and waves over on that side make for some good footage.

Never leave anything in the vehicle, especially camera equipment - take it with on the dive or go back and secure it in your room if you can't take it under with you.

Bring really good thick soled boots.

You're gonna love it!!!
 
Thanks all for the tips. Some of the amazing videos on vimeo and you tube make it look so easy but I guess that is why film making is 20% science and 80% art. All your advice is much appreciated and makes sense and I look forward to trying some of your ideas. Now all I have is a long 6 week wait :)
 

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