Productivity
Don’t Shoot!... Your Video Without Checking Out These Tips
Ahmed Iyash, founder of Space Parade and ace videographer, opens up with his top tips for a successful video shoot and production.
Making Space Parade videos are great because I get to have a lot of fun with my crew, but I’ve also worked on the set of an international reality show and local feature films. With over 13 years of videography experience, I think I can safely say I’ve learned a thing or two about video production.
Here are my top tips for getting the best out of every video shoot.
Plan. Everything.
Plan for the best and prepare for the worst
© Space Parade
The more you plan, the more time you’ll save during the actual shoot, and you’re going to need that time. First of all, brainstorm with your team about what the video is about. Come up with a solid concept and then build on it. Map out the details, like how you want the video to flow and what you need for the shoot; Costumes, Cast, Location, Props, etc.
Don’t waste time at meetings. Always keep track of what decision you make at the brainstorming session and steer your team towards them. Remember, it’s easy to get distracted, so keep it simple and try not to snowball (too much).
Be Open to Collaboration
Have a vision for what you want but be open to new ideas. Members of the crew might have great suggestions on how to tackle things differently. Don’t be married to your own vision so much that you can’t compromise.
It’s not good for morale, and that affects productivity.
Be Early
Encourage an environment of punctuality in your crew. Expect tardy types and set your shoot an hour earlier than when you want to press record, provided you don’t have to do much setup at the location. Otherwise, plan accordingly and show up with enough time to set up and not have to rush. The more you rush, the more mistakes you’re going to make.
Delegate Work
Even the simplest job on the set is important
© Space Parade
It’s hard to let go of aspects of a project that are personal to you, but you have to trust your team. Taking on all the responsibility will reduce the quality of the work and delay the final product. Just oversee the tasks that you delegate and make sure your team knows what your vision for this is. Provided that you have competent people around, you’ll be more than fine.
Always Acknowledge Good Work
Now, I can’t stress enough how important good morale among the crew is. Happy people work faster and better. If someone is doing a good job, make sure they know it. Tell them! In the same way, if someone needs a good talking to, take them aside and explain to them what they’re doing wrong.
Enjoy the shoot and have fun with your crew
© Space Parade
Discipline
Making videos can be finicky work. It’s hard to stay inspired the whole way. Having the discipline to work through days that you’re not inspired can be a struggle. It’s not an easy job, making videos. You will need discipline to get ahead and improve yourself.