How to frame your shot: Setting up a good shot only takes a few minutes, but can make a big difference to the final product of your video.

Before you begin, ask yourself these 5 questions

• Should I be sitting or standing?
• Will I be looking directly at the camera? Or to the side?
• How much of me will be in view?
• What angle should I use?
• What is the space like around me?

1. Should I be sitting or standing? 

Make sure you’re comfortable. If you have a tendency to move around or sway, you may want to take a seat. Too much movement can be distracting, but if you’re sitting make sure to sit up straight and choose a chair that doesn’t squeak.

2. Will I be looking directly at the camera? Or to the side?

Option 1: Look right at the camera. Sometimes it can be intimidating to stare into the camera. It is a strong choice, but keep in mind that staring at the camera is a reminder that you are being recorded which may through you off.

Option 2: You can turn slightly to the side so it looks like you are having a conversation with someone off camera. This may help you relax and feel more comfortable with the process. Remember to choose one focal point and stick to it. Bring in a friend to help you so you have someone to focus on.

3. How much of me will be in view? 

Decide how close you want the camera to be. Do you want to show your whole body in an long short? Or from the waist up in a medium shot? Or focus on your face in close up.

4. What angle should I use? 

Once you’ve chosen your position, consider the camera angle of your short. You can choose to shoot From above At eye level From below Keep in mind that most people don’t like the look of the underside of their chin or up their nose. It is always good practice to match your shot to the tone of your piece.

5. What is the space like around me? 

Are you in the centre of the shot? Or are you slightly off to one side? If you are looking off to one side rather than at the camera, make sure that you are speaking into the extra space, known as the lead space. If the broad side is behind the speaker, the audience will expect someone or something to jump onto screen.

Don’t forget: there are five questions to consider before filming:

• Should I be sitting or standing?
• Will I be looking directly at the camera? Or to the side?
• How much of me will be in view?
• What angle should I use?
• What is the space like around me?

Answering these questions before you get started can help determine the tone and overall outcome of your video.

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