Identify the three problems that occur when using video, and analyze how each of these problems can be avoided.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The three main problems that occur when using video are unstable images, awkward framing and poor focus. Unstable images happen when the camera is shaky or jostled about. This problem can be minimized by mounting the camera on a tripod. However, at times, the cameraperson might need to handhold the camera to get a certain shot, like following a person running down an alley. If camera movement isn't too extreme, then it can be allowed. But if the camera movement is too distracting, then such shots should be avoided.
Awkward framing happens when the framing of a shot does not mimic the eye's natural framing. For example, if a person's face while talking takes up the entire shot, then the framing runs contrary to the eye's framing. The eye normally does not frame a person's face when talking in such a way, unless the person is talking extremely close, which is unusual. When framing a shot, try to aim for balance and harmony, so the subject is not too close or too far away and distracting background elements are eliminated. At times, in spontaneous situations, ideal framing may not be possible. If a videotaped subject seems too far away, cropping can help by bring the subject closer.
Poor focus happens when the lens of the camera is not focused correctly on the subject. This problem can be avoided by using autofocus. However, autofocus will continually focus and refocus through the recording, which can be distracting, and it also may focus on the wrong part of the scene. As a result, skilled use of manual focus may be the best solution because doing this will keep the desired subject almost always in focus.