If you’re cheering on your partner in the New York Marathon, cycling from London to Paris, or even taking part in something crazy like the Rickshaw Challenge, the experience needs to be immortalised in film. Adventurous charity events and sports events are often once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Find out how you can capture the event in all its glory with our filming advice.
1. Don’t Miss the Build-Up
Don’t wait until the day of the event itself to start shooting. Film the participants, getting their reactions, hopes, fears, and expectations before the event. Film the cyclists as they prep their bikes, and the runners as they complete their final practice sessions. Filming before the event itself also helps you to familiarise yourself with the participants and hone your skills.
2. Shoot the Hard Parts
When someone gets tired and emotional, or when the bike breaks and the back-up van is on the way, when the storm clouds move in – keep filming. The parts that may not seem particularly inspiring at the time will add to your film and make it more rounded and personal.
3. Include Scene-Setting Details
You may not use the footage, but make sure that you record details of where you are, and what exactly is happening in case you need it to set the stage for the events you are filming. Include wide shots, shots of alternative spots linked to the event, and include information on why the particular part of the event is important.
4. Vary Your Angle
If you are taking part in a road race, get out of the vehicle at some points to film the car driving off or coming towards you. If you want footage of a charity bike event, set the camera on the bike of the participant for a stretch of the race. Make sure you are not filming the event entirely from one perspective.
5. Always be Ready to Shoot
Charity events that last a couple of days will inevitably have some moments of downtime but don’t think you can switch off your camera or leave it in your hotel room. Always have the camera charged and to hand, with enough memory. You never know when something interesting will take place and you don’t want to miss it.
6. If You’re Not Sure, Shoot Anyway
Much better to have footage of something that turns out to be funny or poignant, and a whole lot of unusable footage, than footage with no mistakes but missed-out episodes. If you are not sure whether the shot will be effective, shoot it anyway and you can discard it later if it didn’t turn out right.
7. Send for the Professionals
If you want to film something for an advertisement campaign, or use the footage for a feature film or to help promote your business, you should consider getting professional help for the charity event shoot. When it comes to web video production London offers a variety of experts – choose a team that will help capture the best of the event while you are free to enjoy the experience without worrying about shots and cameras.
