Week 2: Scripts, Scouting, and Shot Lists

July 22, 2011 2 Comments

 

So you have this brilliant idea for a video.  Now what?

Before you start shooting you’ll want to get yourself organized. During this week of Video Bootcamp you will be making a plan for how you’re going to get your video from idea to reality.

Writing a script

In the Video Proposal form you completed in the first week you briefly described what you want to display and what you want your viewer to learn from your video. Now you’ll want to reference back to that to craft your script. How detailed or general you want to make your script is up to you. Some people may find that writing a detailed script and memorizing it is the way to go. Others will prefer to only write a general idea of what they are going to say and “wing it” when filming time comes. Either way, keep in mind that your video should be shorter than 4 minutes and will include at least one cut or transition.

Creating a Shot List

Whether your script is very detailed or more of a general idea, you want to create a shot list. A shot list is simply a list of all of the shots you need to film to create your video. You can do this by reading through your script and taking note of how you want to visually represent your message. What do you want to see on the screen and how are you going to shoot it?

Example:

1. Shot 1: Panning, Wide angle shot of the Mystery Section, (Flip Camera)
2. Shot 2: Static, Wide angle shot of Mick reviewing a mystery novel, (Flip Camera)
3. Shot 3: Still Photo, Close up shot of a Book Cover, (Digital Camera)
4. Shot 4: Still Photo, Normal lens shot of the Mystery Section sign, (Digital Camera)

Scouting your Locations

Before you start filming, you’ll also want to check out your locations. This will give you a better idea of how and when you’re going to shoot your video. Is your location in a high traffic area? Best to film before the library opens.  Will you have to move around during the shot? You probably need to recruit a camera assistant. Are you in front of a window that will produce an unwanted reflection? Maybe you want to choose another angle. Once you’ve scouted your locations, revise your shot list if necessary, and make a note of what equipment you will need (Tripod, Flip Camera, Still Camera, etc.) and what crew (if needed) you have secured.

 

Your Tasks for the Week:

1. Write a script

2. Create a shot list

3. Scout your locations

4. Fill out the planning form. Once approved, you’re on to Week 3 where you’ll put these plans into Action! and Roll Camera!

Assignments