4 Common Mistakes in Event Videography

Event videography is a tricky business. Whether you’re filming a live corporate event, a sporting event, a wedding or some other special occasion, careful preparation is required to ensure you don’t make mistakes that could cost you greatly in the end. We’re showing you the most common mistakes in event videography and how to avoid them.

1. Lack of Preparation or Last Minute Arrival

The most common mistake that an event videographer can make and does make on a regular basis is showing up last minute to film.

Corporate event videography as well as the live filming of various other events requires enough prep time to ensure you are familiar with the location, any underlying obstacles to filming, the special needs of the event, and what to expect when the camera starts rolling.

You cannot possibly prepare for all of this if you arrive 5 minutes before the event begins. The best thing to do here is to prepare in advance for the event and arrive early. You should be prepared to arrive at least an hour before the event and, for major events, arrival several hours prior is ideal. This way you can properly review the venue, space, and needs as well as coordinate your film.

 2. Lack of Audio

If you haven’t planned the audio capture for the event, you are taking a huge risk. A clean and clearly audible feed is crucial to your event videography. If you’re not sure what audio elements will be available or at your disposal when you arrive, you should take special care to bring audio equipment with you to make sure you have all your bases covered.

You may not have the benefit of a mixer or special audio on site. In such cases, it will be your responsibility to ensure you still capture the audio to go along with the footage that you film. Consider the use of a field recorder, lavalier microphones and any other sound recording equipment that will ensure you capture the essence of the event.

 3. Wrong Camera

When it comes to the footage of the event, the worst thing you can do is bring the wrong camera–or forget your camera! Make sure you have your packing checklist before you leave for the event to ensure you don’t forget any crucial equipment along the way. When you arrive, make sure that you prepare your camera for the video that you intend to capture.

Now is the time to adjust the camera, consider the zoom lens and set the appropriate distance for your shoot.  Once the event begins you won’t have time or the ability to make these last minute adjustments or changes. This is another reason you arrive early on the set!

 4. Lack of Understanding

Finally, you may think you know what the event organizers intend for you to shoot or that you understand their needs, but don’t make assumptions. Make sure you have talked with the event organizers and fully understand what it is that they want to achieve with the video. This way you can be sure to capture the footage that will make the best final cut for your client’s needs.

Most of these common mistakes in event videography are merely common sense issues, but they are very common problems that arise, especially for early videographers.

Get in Touch with Team Beverly Boy

For help with event videography, call Beverly Boy Productions to learn about our worldwide production services. We’re happy to capture your event so that you can share the memories for many years to come.