Elevate Your Video Camera

A great way to create more interesting video perspectives is to raise your camera higher. Positioning the camera above any scene gives a unique view—and putting the camera into motion from that position can result in really dynamic shots.

In this week’s video, we look at a couple of tools for raising your camera up higher, and discuss techniques for getting the most out of elevated shots.

This week we cover

  • Using a monopod to extend your reach. Learn why a monopod is one of the easiest ways to get the camera up higher and extend it into a scene.
  • What is a jib? A jib is an extremely popular way of elevating the camera, while also putting it into motion. We’ll check out all the various features and parts of a jib system.
  • Operating a jib. Catch up with director of photography Jim Ball and learn about some hard-won techniques for operating a jib.
  • Real-world examples.  We’ll evaluate several elevated shots from a recent music video shoot, breaking down what worked and what didn’t.