Making a Mini-documentary, Ep 8: Using a tripod when making a video

SUBJECTS:  Arts

YEARS:  3–4, 5–6

Hand-held camera can be great for lively effects in a video, but sometimes you need a tripod.

Benj Binks from ABC Open has some handy tips for you on making the most of this equipment.

This clip is one of eight on making a mini-documentary.

Things to think about

1. 1.Have you ever used a tripod when filming? Why did you use it? Did it help? Do you know which part of your camera is the lens? The lens focuses the light rays as they come into your camera. A magnifying glass is a simple lens. Some cameras come with different lenses that will magnify (make bigger) what you can see.
2. 2.Why does Benj want to use a tripod rather than a hand-held camera? How do you set up the tripod? What shots does the tripod allow you to do? What is the special lens Benj is using, and what is it used for?
3. 3.Watch the clip carefully and take note of how to use the tripod. Look carefully at the shots Benj is using and at the examples of them. What do you notice about the footage of the surfers taken through the special lens compared to the other bits Benj has taken? Why might you want to use different lenses on your camera?
4. 4.Tripods can be tricky to use and they are not all the same. Practise setting the tripod up a few times before you attach a camera. Make sure all the clips are done up properly so it won't collapse. Check the surface it's on, as you don't want it sinking when you're using it! You will need to make sure it is a comfortable height for you to use. Experiment with different shots with a camera on a tripod.

Date of broadcast: 2012

Copyright

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