How to get decent Video footage ?

boofhead 08-25-2003, 9:57 AM

I Help run a University club in the UK. We're getting a digital camcorder soon and I was wondering if you had any tips on how to get some footage and then put the footage together on a computer, add music etc. I've seen some pretty good stuff on these pages just wondered how you guys did it? Thanks for any advice.

troyb 08-25-2003, 4:18 PM

Well if you're planning on doing stuff on the computer make sure you get a camcorder with firewire. It's the easiest method of transfer and the quality is best too. Then you just need to get a decent video editing program and you're good to go. I've had good experiences with Vegas Video...I think Premiere is too bloated and harder to use. Just devote some time to playing with different effects and watch some of the professional videos to see what kind of effects/transitions they use. It's a lot of fun...and addicting too.

(ryin) · (ryin) **Join Date: May 2002** 08-25-2003, 8:26 PM

try to get different angles of shots and get a video editing software. i use Ulead Media Studio Pro 6.5 works pretty good. its all about creativity, when i make videos i try to find a good song that will work and make the video fit into the song, it seems to be more interesting that way.

sumdumguy 08-25-2003, 10:08 PM

Don't just use footage shot from the boat. Experiment with shots from a stationary tube, a towed tube, another boat, even from the beach.

Be aware of where the sun is and how it is hitting your rider/subject. Proper lighting is ESSENTIAL!

If you're using a digital camcorder, more than likely it will have Firewire, which GREATLY simplifies editing. I have no experience with Vegas Video (I only use Macs) so I can't really comment on it. Look into Final Cut Express. It's only $250 and does everything you'll ever need if you're shooting DV (the color correction alone is worth the price of admission, especially considering how hard it can be to get consistent shots on the water). Step up to Final Cut Pro only if you're shooting higher resolution formats.

Remember what Troy and Ryan said in their posts, it's a lot of fun and really lets you show some creativity. That's what videography and wakeboarding are all about!