Ema-an Zainab M.
Mustapha
CMS124-Vv
Filmmaking is a visual medium; it is not necessary to state every action or scene in
the film. The video production primer is an easy-to-read material for those who want to
learn the basics of video production. It was published in the year 2011, so some
information needed to be updated. However, I have learned many lessons in the primer,
especially after doing my first video production.
The primer is divided into four (4) parts: the overview, pre-production, production,
and post-production. It is then subdivided into topics that discuss the relevant aspects of
each video production process.
In the overview, it states that there are three (3) main sections to take note of in
video production. First, there is pre-production, a critical phase of any media production.
It can also be called the planning phase of a video production. Second, the production,
the actual start of shooting. Third, post-production is the phase where the narrative
starts to form. It starts from editing up to the exportation of the film.
Scripts, storyboards, media management and storage, schedule, budget, and
location are all included in pre-production. As stated earlier, pre-production is the
planning phase of any media production. I have noted many things in planning a video
production in this section. I have learned that if one wants to make a film, it is relevant to
make a film that shows action and conflict. I have also learned the importance of script
in video production. It serves as a guide for producers and editors. I have also learned
that one cannot just go and shoot any scenes of the script at any time or anywhere. The
shoots must be scheduled and planned. It is also important to scout locations and take
note of the light and the ambient sound in the said location. It is also important to get the
permission of the owner of the place. It is also good to take note of giving allowances in
the schedule just in case there is some delay. I have also learned that it is important to
manage the media very well and I learned this the hard way. It is important to store and
arrange all media to be used in the video for easy navigation and editing process.
In the production section, it discusses the gears commonly used in filming. It also
gave video and audio tips, such as the following:
1. Move the camera forward rather than zoom in.
2. Check the camera's storage, battery, and overall condition before using it on the
field. It is also crucial to check microphones.
3. Be aware of the natural light.
4. Anticipate delays and emergencies.
5. Be aware of background noises.
Post-production includes the editing and the exportation of the video. It discusses
the possible editing software programs that can be used in the editing process. As
stated before, the primer is outdated, therefore the suggested software programs are
not up to date. Additionally, the software programs suggested were mostly only
available for Mac or Apple products. So, as someone who edits videos sometimes, I
suggest using Capcut, Filmora, and Adobe Premier for those who use Windows and
Androids. Aside from the editing software programs, it also discusses editing tips such
as not using excessive fancy transitions as they can be distracting, being aware of
cinematic grammar, and shooting as many B-rolls as possible.
Everything stated here is a lesson I learned while I was reading the video
production primer and the things that I want to improve on after my first video production
assignment.
