Video Shooter: Mastering Storytelling Techniques

by Barry Braverman

"Show me a world I haven’t seen before!" These words from veteran cinematographer Barry Braverman will resonate as you read (and re-read) this revamped edition of Video Shooter. The third edition takes you beyond the technicalities of sensors, lenses, and tripods, to instill a practical and inspired appreciation for the craft of both the camera and the stories you choose to tell. Braverman draws from decades of personal experience on high-profile documentaries and feature films to explain the makings of a compelling visual storyteller. This is no ordinary dull-as-dishwater camera book! With wit and humor Video Shooter, Third Edition explores the discipline of the 2D and 3D imagemaker, from the need to maintain a clear point of view and eyeline, to the emotional impact of lens choice and color palette. You’ll learn to avoid generic shots and angles, and apply the principle of exclusion to maintain rigorous control of the frame. You’ll understand how close-ups can drive a story and how composition, selective focus, and simple lighting direct the viewer’s eye inside the frame. Most of all you’ll learn not to make it too easy ― by challenging your viewers , you’ll elevate the value of your work and your reputation as a craftsman. Whether you shoot with a sophisticated 4K camcorder, large-sensor DSLR, or an iPhone, the lessons of Video Shooter, Third Edition will enhance your storytelling skills by helping you exploit a camera’s capabilities to the maximum. New to Video Shooter, Third
* 3D storytelling and techniques fundamentals of image capture and stereo production with an emphasis on simple integrated one-piece 3D camcorders
* Video storytelling with DSLRs how to get the best look out of these large sensor cameras despite the compromises
* Post-camera imaging, filtering, stabilizing
* Outputting your show to the Web or DVD
* Insights into the working life of a video shooter ― how to identify and land your ideal job, and work successfully with ego-crazed collaborators
* End of chapter study guides with review questions for educators A companion website provides supplemental materials, including video tutorials based on the lessons in the book.

344 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2009

Reviews

[coolwind · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book is not so much about how to shoot a better video. It is more on gears. Not too useful to me.

[J.S. · Rating 3 out of 5]

I didn't really need this book - I don't have a super-expensive high-end video camera and I've never tried to make a movie. But, I always seem to be the one with the video camera on family trips, and if you've ever seen the family videos I've taken you'd agree that I could use some help.

The thing I like most about this book is how visually oriented it is - if you look through the preview pages you'll see almost every page loaded with pictures illustrating the concepts Mr. Braverman is trying to convey. The text is limited and to the point (sometimes a little too limited) and is very much a "how to" or "tips and tricks" manual. And even though it says HD it has lots of applicable information if you're still working with an older model camera. It seems like it could almost be used as a textbook for a videography class, but I think it'll help lots of us amateurs do a better job on the family videos.

[Cody Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

More of a technical manual than I was expecting, but still a very useful addition to my reading list on shooting with HD Cameras. Full of illustrations and info about how to improve your work.