7 Things to Check Before Hitting Record

Today, we're taking it back--WAY back--to the basics with seven things you need to check before hitting that record button.

You're at a shoot, and it ends up being a "run and gun" operation, and there is a LOT going on. Your focus is critical so you can manage everything going on behind the camera and everything going on in front of the lens.

So, because you demanded it, I have seven things you need to check before pressing record.

1. Resolution and frame rate - Yes, I know--common sense--just remember, though, that if you're going to be out shooting with multiple cameras, each camera needs to have the exact same resolution and frame rate. Otherwise, your video is going to start looking bad real fast and editing will be more difficult than you want it to be.

2. White balance - You're running and gunning, going from one spot to the next--outside then inside, inside then outside--then, SURPRISE, the lighting conditions change. This will drastically impact the color of your image. You need to make the time to adjust your white balance properly with every set-up, whether you're inside or outside.

3. Gain or ISO - Keep in mind, your Gain or ISO settings control your image exposure. The higher the Gain or ISO settings, the brighter the image. That's ideal for low light situations. On the flip side, the lower settings are optimal for bright situations. Just remember--increasing the ISO settings also increases the image's noise, so be careful with it.

4. Scene profile, or Picture Profile mode - The correct picture style can make or break your image. Looking for more control over the contrast and saturation of your image? Use the neutral setting. Looking to do less work in post? Try using a standard setting. But, WARNING: I'm a control freak, and a neutral setting gives me that power.

5. Shutter speed - Let me give you some simple math when filming. Double your frame rate and that should be close to what your shutter speed should be! With everything in physics and film, this isn't exactly science, but it's close. A good setting for 24p footage is 1/50th. A good setting for 60p footage is 1/125th, and so on.

6. Aperture or F-stop settings - Knowing what F-stop settings to go with really depends on the type of lens you're using. Knowing you lens' maximum aperture will help you choose the best F-stop setting for the situation. A general rule of thumb is a lens will generate the sharpest image towards the middle of the glass. An F-5.6 setting may produce a good image, but if you're in low light, a setting of 2.8, or even 1.8 may be optimal. WARNING: The lower the F-stop setting is, the greater the shallow depth of field is. If you like Bokeh, then it ain't so bad.

7. Focus - Make sure your shot is in focus. Brilliant! Usually cameras have what is called a focus assist button. So use it! Nothing is worse than having great exposure settings, only to pull up your footage and find a crucial shot was out of focus.

Stay on top of these seven things and you will be on your way to creating some decent footage.

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