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Chapter 9 Shooting Semi-Pro Videos 103

and a boom mic to capture product sounds. You can mix the two soundtracks for
optimal effect when you edit the video.

On-the-Scene Reports

Let’s not forget the portable nature of a camcorder: A handheld model can shoot
practically anywhere. This, of course, makes a camcorder ideal for shooting outside
the office, in just about any location.

Consider, for example, shooting an on-the-road video, with a cameraman accompa-
nying the host to various locations. Perhaps you need an outdoor demonstration of
your product, or want to file a report from a trade show or conference, or docu-
ment a visit to a remote office. You can shoot any of these videos with a simple
camcorder, no optional equipment necessary—although an external mic and cam-
era light might be useful if the situation allows.

Shooting a Semi-Pro Video

What’s the best way to shoot a semi-pro video? It depends on your situation, but
basic techniques hold in any instance.

Shooting in the Office

When you’re shooting indoors in familiar surroundings, you have a nice home
court advantage—and a lot of control over the situation. You can take advantage of
this situation to shoot extremely high quality videos. All you need is the right
equipment, a little preparation, and a lot of patience.

As to equipment, here’s what I recommend:

• Mid-level HD camcorder with external microphone input

• Tripod

• Lavalier or boom microphone

• External video light—either a camera-mounted light or a set of separate
photofloods

Set up your equipment in front of the subject. Set the subject in front of a plain,
nondistracting background; if you can, choose a background color that contrasts
with the subject’s clothing or the color of the product you’re shooting. Mic the sub-
ject with a lavalier mic or, if you have a dedicated sound person, use a boom mic
positioned above and to the front of the subject.