Instruction manual

before they get crushed, and thrown into the trash.
Large sheets of Styrofoam are available at most hardware stores and lumber
yards. Styrofoam can be painted, but it probably will take two coats. When applied
directly, enamel paint will destroy Styrofoam. If an enamel gloss finish is desired on a
Styrofoam prop, use latex paint for the first coat. When it is dry, enamel paint can be
used.
Using some creativity, patience, and a razor knife, you can build just about any
kind of prop or background imaginable. ALWAYS USE COMMON SENSE when
working with sharp instruments or power extension cords.
Once, I had to shoot and edit a music video of a classical pianist performing a
sonata for use in a local TV telethon. Using one broadcast camera, I shot the 5-minute
performance 3 times, from 3 different angles. The grand piano was on a basketball court
inside of a gymnasium (of all places). Luckily, I found a huge sheet of Styrofoam, which
became the background for each camera angle. By moving the Styrofoam around, it gave
the impression that the performance took place in a small room with white walls. I wasn’t
about to ask a classical pianist to Sync to a recording! Fortunately, musical discipline
allowed her to play at virtually the same speed each time. The audio that was recorded
during the first angle was used as the Master audio during editing.
If you should ever send a music video to a show like America’s Funniest Home
Videos, include a copy of the song on an audio cassette. The video and stereo audio will
be transferred to broadcast videotape.
In addition to Camcorder Operator, you’ll also serve as Producer and Director,
unless you wish to share these responsibilities with someone else. A Producer has total
responsibility for the production, and should know every detail concerning the shoot. Try
to anticipate potential problems, and be ready with alternate plans, if needed.
A Director accepts ideas from others, but makes the final decisions. Work closely
with the performers, and discuss ideas and options. During the shoot, a Director is
responsible for the composition of each shot as seen through the viewfinder. Similar to a
sports coach or an orchestra conductor, the Director does whatever is necessary to get the
maximum performance out of the performers. During editing, the Director decides where
each edit will take place. Sometimes, a Director has to shout... or whisper.
Visit the Music Video 101 Update 2006 Web Page
New information, and video production links!
timtv.com/update2001
http://www.timtv.com/update2001
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