1. Kitbag
You don't need a big kitbag, but in your camera choice you should explore the autofocus capabilities (DAF), the frame rates available in 4K and 1080p, the bit-rate (the higher the bit-rate, the better the quality and larger the file size) and the availability of Canon Log for a wider dynamic range and generous exposure latitude (available as an upgrade on the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV).
Javier shot this film on the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, which features options to record in high-resolution 4K as well as Full HD for frame rate options including 60p slow motion.
2. Workflow
The data wrangling required when shooting video is a step up from photography. You need to consider the speed and size of SD cards, drives and computer RAM, along with your choice of editing software. "You need to make sure that your card has the speed to record in 4K in the different frame rates that you want to use," says Javier.
3. Sequencing
As photographers, it’s easy to identify and capture a “money shot”. However, successful videos focus on stories rather than singular scenes. You'll need to create short sequences that will guide your viewer into a moment – this visual explanation of how a subject gets from point A to point B creates a more compelling story.
4. Movement
As a photographer, you predominantly stay still – but in filmmaking, movement plays an important creative role. Too much will make your viewer feel disorientated or dizzy, but get it right and you can transport your viewer seamlessly into a scene. Make sure that you include a five-second static shot at the start and end of your cut to help in the editing process. Movement is a big part of Javier's work, and he used a gimbal and slider in the making of this film, "but I have also used a skateboard!" he says. Keep an open mind, get creative, and work within your means.
5. Aperture
Much of the time, videographers must focus in on a scene manually while a subject is in motion, making working with wide apertures incredibly difficult. Although it’s tempting to blur out distracting details in a still photograph, keep in mind that you may not be able to successfully replicate the same effect while shooting video.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV features Dual Pixel CMOS AF – one of the most important feature upgrades over the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. This will enable smooth and precise pull focus transitions in any resolution from 4K to Full HD, at the touch of a point on the camera's LCD screen. Face Detection AF in Live View enables you to track your subject hands-free.
To find out more about Canon filmmaking kit and how it can help you to shoot video, visit the Canon stand at IBC 2019.