5 Tips for More Cinematic Video

Posted September 15, 2017

Share To

Everyone wants their videos to look more cinematic.

Cinematography is more than just framing, it's lighting, it's proper camera settings, it's a whole array of factors. Some people think that it's too much to think about when you are working alone and on the go, but in reality there are some really simple techniques and strategies that you can use to get your video looking like it's a Hollywood movie.

Check out this video from Mango Street for some simple tricks from professional cinematographers of some things to keep in mind to get great images.

They go through a lot of cool tricks here but here are some basic takeaways from the video:

Simple lighting is always best. When you enter a space or arrive at a location take a moment to see what the natural lighting is like and try to use that as much as possible.

Screen direction is an important thing to keep in mind when shooting and editing. While it may seem like a small point but it can make a world of difference to your viewer who will be more immersed in your video.

The way you frame your subject will telegraph a lot to your viewer. Take some time to think about how you want to frame them in the wide shot and make sure the composition of the shot is nice with nothing distracting the viewer from your character.

Everyone is using slow-motion and timelapse these days, which is great because they can look great, but make sure that when you do employ these styles that it is for an editorial purpose and not just to have it.

Make sure it looks good before you record. You hear, "I'll fix it in post" a lot, but it's always better, and will save you a lot of time and stress, to make sure that the shot is exposed and white balanced correctly before you shoot than after.

Got anymore tips? Comment below!

Start a Free Trial