Videography basics: Definition, Basics, and Practical Tips to Get Better

Every platform—from social media to YouTube to streaming services—prioritizes video content, and for good reason: last year, video was projected to account for 82% of all internet traffic.

As a podcaster, vlogger, or digital content creator, it’s natural to consider expanding into videography.

Mastering high-quality video production is an invaluable skill, whether creating corporate branding videos, working as a wedding videographer, or producing content for your YouTube channel. Explore this guide to understand videography's purpose, its various forms, and essential tips for becoming a successful videographer.

What Is Videography?

Videography involves the digital capture, editing, and production of video content. Videographers use digital cameras and streaming devices to record various projects, such as concerts, news events, or podcasts and vlogs.

While videography shares similarities with cinematography, the two have distinct differences. Videography typically focuses on capturing live events with a spontaneous, guerrilla-style approach, whereas cinematography refers to highly produced projects involving a film crew and a script, often shot on film stock rather than digital devices.

What Is the Purpose of Videography?

Unlike the highly planned and produced nature of cinematography, videography’s purpose is to capture live events as they unfold. Videographers work at the moment, not only recording footage but also adjusting lighting and adding music or sound effects as needed.

Cinematographers usually work with larger crews and focus on artistic direction, while videography is about documenting events in real time, often by a solo videographer or a small team.

Does Videography Include Editing?

Videographers and video editors have distinct roles, though their work can overlap. A video editor focuses solely on compiling and refining raw footage into a finished product. In contrast, videographers are responsible for the entire video production process, which may include editing, depending on the project's scope and the size of the team.

What Are the Types of Videography?

The creative possibilities in videography are vast, but some common styles and categories are widely used today. One popular type is time-lapse videos, which compress hours or days of footage into just a few minutes, showing changes over time, such as clouds moving across the sky or a seedling growing into a tree.

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Product Reviews

Consumers rely on reviews from real users before buying a product, which explains why video reviews on YouTube and social media are so popular.

Tutorials and Product Videos

These short instructional videos demonstrate knowledge or a skill. Companies often hire videographers to demonstrate the benefits and uses of their products.

Promotional video

This more advanced videography type uses video to showcase a product or service. Whether it’s a brand documentary, a marketing campaign or a brand awareness video, these videos help deliver a narrative and raise excitement about a brand and its product or service.

Event Videography

As the name suggests, these videos capture events like a wedding, party, music video, press release, or ceremony.

Documentaries

These non-fiction films turn real life into a narrative. Documentary videographers are well-versed in finding compelling truth in the seemingly mundane.

Filmmaking Process

While every filmmaker has their unique style and approach, the fundamental steps in the filmmaking process remain consistent. Whether you're new to videography or aiming to enhance your skills, the following process serves as a strong foundation:

Pre-Production Planning

Begin by developing a clear concept. Ask yourself:

- What content do you want to present?

- Who is your target audience?

- What message are you conveying?

- What actions or outcomes do you want from your audience?

With your goals and vision in place, create a detailed plan.

Although videography may not require the extensive pre-production planning that cinematography does, preparation is still crucial. Depending on the type of videography you're pursuing, this phase might involve writing a script, scouting locations, and organizing camera equipment, lenses, and lighting.

Consider drafting a shot list in advance. For instance, if you're preparing for wedding videography, outline key moments such as the cake cutting, first dance, and the couple's exit.

Filming Basics

Once planning is complete, it's time to start filming.

To become a skilled videographer, attention to detail is essential, along with consistent practice.

Here are a few practical tips to elevate the quality of your video production and enhance your filmmaking skills:

1. Use a Simple Background

- Ensure the background doesn't distract from your subject. Consider using a solid sheet, plain wall, or backdrop paper.

2. Be Intentional With Your Lighting

- Proper lighting can significantly enhance the professionalism of your footage. You may want to use a combination of:

- Key light (main light source)

- Fill light (diffused light to soften shadows created by the key light)

- Backlighting (separates the subject from the background, adding depth)

- Side lighting (illuminates the scene from the side, adding texture)

- Practical lighting (natural light sources like lamps and screens)

3. Use the Rule of Thirds

- Avoid centring your subject. Instead, divide your frame into thirds both vertically and horizontally, and position your subject at one of the intersections. Many cameras offer grid overlays to help visualize this composition.

(Image source: SLR Lounge)

The Editing Process

Video editing is a complex process, and to achieve the best results, you might consider hiring a professional. However, if you want to develop your own editing skills, start by following these essential phases:

1. Organize Your Footage

- Begin by organizing your media into folders, which will make the post-production process more manageable and efficient.

2. Sync Your Audio

- Some video editing software, like Riverside, automatically syncs audio with video. If your software doesn’t offer this feature, you'll need to manually sync the audio.

3. Review the Footage

- Familiarize yourself with every shot and piece of media you have. Review any notes regarding which shots to include in the final edit.

4. Create a Rough Cut

- Assemble the material to start telling your story. This stage may involve using placeholders for graphics or text.

5. Fine Cut

- Fine-tune each shot, trim to the desired length, and insert music, text, animations, and graphics as needed.

6. Final Edits

- In this final phase, review the project on various devices (like a TV or mobile device) to ensure consistency. Finalize colour grading and audio levels to complete your video.

Best Cameras for Videography

Videographers often need to capture action quickly without sacrificing video quality, making a lightweight yet powerful camera essential.

Our top pick is the ZV-1F, a versatile mirrorless camera offering a wide range of video options, including unlimited recording times and 5.7K/60fps video.

Another excellent choice is the DSC-RX100M7. Known for being the smallest and most affordable camera approved for Netflix projects, it can shoot in 6K at 24fps, performs well in all lighting conditions, and features exceptional built-in stabilization.

Other Essential Videography Equipment

Beyond a camera, you'll need additional hardware and software to succeed in videography, regardless of your style or niche. Essential gear includes:

- High-quality lighting equipment

- Tripod

- Camera lenses

- Microphone

- Boom pole

- Headphones

- Memory cards

- Editing programs, like Adobe Premiere Pro

Videography Resources

If you're aspiring to become a videographer, numerous free and paid resources can help you build your skills.

A great starting point is to immerse yourself in insights from top professionals in the field. Here are some valuable resources to consider:

- Riverside's Video Production Blog: Stay updated with expert tips and trends in videography.

- Feedspod’s List of Top 15 Videographer YouTube Channels: Explore a curated selection of the best videography content on YouTube.

- Videography Course free claim it: Learn the fundamentals of videography through engaging online classes.

- Digital Camera World’s Best Cameras for Beginners: Find the ideal camera to kickstart your videography journey.

Learning to use a camera is essential. Consider attending free workshops or taking classes in film, photography, or broadcast journalism. If you’re still in school, joining your school’s audio-visual club can provide hands-on experience in basic videography skills.

For those serious about a videography career, pursuing a degree in a related field, such as communications, cinematography, or broadcasting, can be beneficial.

Additionally, seek out internships in the film industry. Contact local news studios or film agencies to inquire about internship or assistant opportunities. Understanding how a film crew operates will better prepare you for a professional videography career.

Videography: The Future of Content Creation

In today’s digital landscape, content creators—from podcasters and webinar hosts to documentary filmmakers—must be adept at producing high-quality videos. Fortunately, professional-level videography has never been more accessible.

Many techniques used by professional videographers can be mastered through practice and observation. Numerous workshops, classes, and internships are available to help you refine your skills.

Moreover, there’s a wide range of high-quality hardware and software available, even for beginners on a budget. Many affordable video cameras are lightweight yet deliver impressive video quality.

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