cinematography First "gig" advice!

Defjon · Oct 6, 2011

So the video production teacher at my school has recruited me to be one of his cameramen.
Tomorrow I'm heading out to shoot a football game!

Their planning on making a montage, is what I have been told.

I have no real experience in shooting for sports..

I'm a bit nervous! But over all excited

Anyone have any tips?? Anything at all I would love

Camera I will be using: http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/696066-REG/Panasonic_AG_HVX200APS_AG_HVX200A_1_3_3CCD_P2.html

CamVader · Oct 6, 2011

Yes, relax and have fun! Don't forget to get shots of the people enjoying the game. Action and reaction.

Alcove Audio · Oct 6, 2011

Keep your eye on the ball.

rayw · Oct 6, 2011

Anticipate the movement of the ball or runners.

Try not to center the subject like a deer in your sights.
Allow the frame to lead by keeping the moving subject in the 1/4 to 1/3 area.

Of course, when they inevitably stop you have to anticipate that as well, so don't Forrest Gump the camera, either.

Learn to keep your subordinate eye at least half open and paying attention.

Defjon · Oct 6, 2011

I'll start practicing now!

O_-

PaulGriffith · Oct 7, 2011

Aside from tech stuff, be professional. Dress in black (typical camera guy thing, you disappear that way), say yes sir/yes ma'am, the customer is always right, etc. I know it's highschool, but stull. Best cameramen in the world won't get a second job if they don't have a pro demeanor with a lot of people.

And congrats man!

brianluce · Oct 7, 2011

If you can hook up an external monitor, your life will be much easier. If it's a day game you'll need shade. Beware of bleacher vibrations.

Zensteve · Oct 7, 2011

Wear your most comfortable shoes.

Defjon · Oct 8, 2011

So yesterday went great! Followed most of these tips, and I feel like I did well!

I'll post the final product when it gets done.
I'm filming water polo on Tuesday! I'm guessing this is my new job here at school!

The video production teacher also mentioned that he wanted to get me and my buddy out to this college basketball tournament at the Honda center? He's apparently got the hookups...

Boy, i'm excited.

CamVader · Oct 8, 2011

Defjon said:
So yesterday went great! Followed most of these tips, and I feel like I did well!

I'll post the final product when it gets done.
I'm filming water polo on Tuesday! I'm guessing this is my new job here at school!

The video production teacher also mentioned that he wanted to get me and my buddy out to this college basketball tournament at the Honda center? He's apparently got the hookups...

Boy, i'm excited.

I've shot a lot of sports, mostly for the news. You usually have to keep moving so to not block views for too long, but the foul lines are a good place to hang out and get good shots. I was a roving on the shoulder guy for ABC sports figure skating once. The director tells you what shots to get, so it wasn't all that creative.

Have fun! Shooting sports is a blast.