As a Video Journalist you have an opportunity to show your audiences images which they would normally not be able to see for themselves. And by shooting extreme close-up is one such way. But zoom lenses cannot take you as close as you would like to go. The solution? A close-up shot.
Close-up video is a great way to add production value to whole range of videos including news, features and documentaries. One can define close-up shot as a shot in which the object appears larger than the actual size.
Before you can start shooting you have to keep few technical issues in mind.
· How close you can get: Lens and its focal length will determine how close you can get. Generally, the rule is get as wide and as close you can get. So take your zoom and pull it as wide as you can and physically move closer to the subject.
· Depth of field: Very small area of the frame is going to be in focus. The best way to get a large area in focus is to stop your lens down to very small aperture e.g. f11
· Use manual focus: Make sure you clean your lens before the shoot as even a little dust on the lens can be in sharp focus due to the shallow depth of field. And using manual focus will help choose the desired spot you want to be in focus.
Why Close-up?
Close-up shots have a variety of uses. They add variety, information and interest. Productions about hobbies or collections cry out for macro shots showing the details of coins or stamps
Footage of old photographs is another opportunity for the use of close-up techniques. Historical productions benefit from close-ups of old photographs or documents. They not only convey information but also relieve the visual monotony of a talking head.
Your dramatic presentations can benefit from close-up shots as well. Macro shots are easy to create and can add a great deal of interest to your productions. Start thinking about ways to enhance the videos you make, and you will find more uses for close-up shots if you look for them.
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