Learning Camera Work

RimSide · May 22, 2012

Hey, I'm learning how to use cameras for filming, well starting actually, and I was wondering where I should start. Does anyone know any good sites or guides I could get and study?

I'm also getting more into on set effects, and learning to get better at my script writing, and screenplay writing. If anyone can help with these too that would be great.

that1guyy · May 22, 2012

https://vimeo.com/videoschool/101

These are the basics to get you started with camerawork. The links on the right of the page are great once you learn the basics.

http://www.indietalk.com/showthread.php?t=23457&highlight=youtube+film+school

Go through that - great tips on camera rigs, how to use your camera properly, great lighting tips, screenwriting, and more.

www.videomaker.com also has great stuff.

Phil_UK · May 22, 2012

Learning.By.Doing

Gonzo_Entertainment · May 22, 2012

Camera operation is almost purely practice (and talent plays a role as well). Pan/tilt on a good tripod every day for a couple years (or operate a steadicam, etc...) and you'll get pretty damn good at it.

joshythehipster · May 22, 2012

I got hollywood camera work master class vol.1 - 6 from my tutor. That's reall good!

Kosh · May 22, 2012

joshythehipster said:
I got hollywood camera work master class vol.1 - 6 from my tutor. That's reall good!

THIS ^^^

Awesome class that is not only great for camera work but for directors trying to learn blocking and staging and most importantly shoot-to-edit.

Plus the other recommendations above are pretty cool too.

David.rhsc · May 23, 2012

Phil_UK said:
Learning.By.Doing

/thread

Definitely study the theory and technique, but like any other physical skill you have to take time and practice to teach your body to operate a camera smoothly.

Also, practice being observant in the world around you. Take time to sit and watch the light change in your local park. Out for a walk around sunset and see some light that you love - note the date and time so that you have a chance of using it in the future.

Watch people, how they project their movements (for example, most folks will scoot slightly forward before standing up from a chair) - this will go a LONG way to maintaining your frame on a moving actor if you can learn to anticipate where they are going.

Tons of good tutorials, books, articles, podcasts, and so on out there. Take what you learn and put it into practice though.

Ewan · May 23, 2012

There's a lot of books out there that teach you the theory of filmmaking and camera work, they should help you a lot.

RimSide · May 24, 2012

Thanks for all the feedback. I am definately going to look all of this up when I get home.