Digital cameras are becoming more and more advanced with time and producing technically perfect photos virtually every time is now possible. DSLR video recording however, is a relatively new possibility and can be confusing for beginners as it involves many considerations that are either usually not applied to still photography or are dealt with in a completely different manner. As a beginner, there are many things you will need to consider before you start shooting videos with your DSLR camera.
The following are top tips for DLSR video beginners:
Stabilize the Camera
Having a stable, solid base is important for getting sharp, clear still photos. But it is even more important when it comes to shooting videos. It’s pretty obvious as you are recording a moving photo after all. So, if the camera is not steady, the output won’t be satisfactory. The easiest and most efficient way to stabilize the DSLR camera during video recording is to use a tripod. It is recommended that you buy a sturdy or a very heavy-duty tripod because most DSLR cameras are not very lightweight and if the tripod is not so sturdy, the chances of your camera tumbling over are very high. Before you make a purchase, be sure to check the specifications of the tripod as well as read reviews to make sure that it is sturdy enough for you.
Use Manual Focus
Even though you will find autofocus to be easier as a beginner, it is not recommended that you get used to it too much because when it comes to DSLR videography, it is not the best option. If you are not already shooting with a manual lens, then you should look into buying one or use the built-in manual focus feature of your camera. Using the manual focus for video recording may seem difficult at first but it will become easier to use and manipulate with a little practice and the effort you put into it will be certainly worth it.
Adjust Your Settings
An important thing to keep in mind is that when you shoot video with your DSLR camera, it does not adjust certain settings (e.g. ISO) automatically. So, you will need to constantly preview and test your footage before you start recording. Adjusting your settings according to the lighting situation should take anywhere between 5-10 minutes.
Invest in a Good Lens
Lens is one of the best DSLR video accessories and you should definitely consider buying the best one that you can afford. Lenses made specially for shooting videos have more impact on the footage’s quality than anything else. When it comes to lenses for shooting DSLR videos, many experienced DSLR videographers recommend buying a lens with a large aperture. A lens with a large aperture is ideal for recording videos in low-light situations as well as controlling the depth of field with relative ease.
Recording videos with DSLR cameras is a fun and rewarding process. However, since it is a relatively new possibility, it can be confusing for beginners. Hopefully, the above-mentioned tips will help you in this regard.