Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Pro Talk: Interviews
Over the years, Red Swans has been involved in many corporate video productions. We have a number of international brand clients who depend on us to produce quality videos. Producing corporate based videos help us become better videographers as these projects are more demanding and require greater innovation than a wedding videos.
Every year we have the opportunity to conduct numerous interviews with top decision makers in brilliant corporations. However, there is one yearly project that we are very fond of: The Martell VSOP Rising Personalities Awards.
Recording an interview is an exacting process as it is an art form. Some of the main concerns are lighting, location and audio. Often, existing lighting may not reflect the mood we're trying to capture hence we come prepared with lighting equipment. The background a subject is captured in front of is crucial to composing a good-looking shot. Crisp clear audio is obviously paramount in an interview which is why we have a set of special mics to capture sound.
One of the most important aspect of conducting an interview has to do with the subject. We always make the subject feel at ease and warmed up before the interview. This is especially important and worth taking the effort because a tense subject leads to a very bad video production.
Watch a video we produced for Joanne Yeoh, a famous professional violinist. The video we've attached is a clear example of Red Swans' capabilities as videographers. Background, lighting, audio and a relaxed subject are all well considered.
Joanne Yeoh was liked the video so much, she is now our long-term client. We will be her official videographers for her performances.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
Venue Review: City Bayview, Penang
The quaint and serene island of Penang off the northern coast of Peninsula Malaysia is but one of the treasures the island has to offer visitors to the Pearl of The Orient.
Penang is a common feature in most multi-national company's calender. Consequently, we travel frequently to this island for video projects, on shoots lasting for days. Comfortable lodging and clean, delectable food guarantee our videography team a fresh and enthusiastic start the following day.
Located just across from the more opulent Eastern and Oriental Hotel but overlooking the sea nevertheless, City Bayview offers comfortable, cosy and most importantly, clean, tidy rooms. Its beds are a joy to sleep in and promises a bright and early start the following morning. The TV channels offer local and cable programmes. Unlike other hotels, there's no need to request a channel from the hotel- they're all viewable. Cable channels are up 27/7 without any offline time.
One of my favourite cafes is just around the corner. Segafredo's panini and foccachia sandwiches are irresistible. Beware for sometimes they don't serve food, only beverages. Countering this unpredictability is City Bayview's 'hawker centre'.
The hotel operates a small row of stalls that serve the simple nasi lemak, roti canai, mee goreng etc. Granted Penang is in a league of its own when it comes to food, most penangites would scoff at the simple offerings of Bayview Hotel. However, the hotel's duck egg char kuey teow holds its own against any other similar stalls. Only the most traveled city slicker can taste the difference. What the hawker stalls lack in variety it makes up for in convenience. The stalls are located just 30 feet away from the main entrance.
One of the joys of staying in City Bayview is its breakfast. I hold breakfast as a sacred ritual, an indication of the day's events. My impression of a hotel is mostly based on its breakfast spread and City Bayview does not disappoint. In fact, it raises the bar for my appraisal of lodging and accommodation.
In addition to the usual fried noodles, rice, porridge, hams, chicken, sausages, various pastries and desserts, City Bayview boasts two stalls that cook roti canai and eggs (fried, scrambled or omelette) on demand so they are always fresh. The omelette version is packed with capsicums, ham, cheese and tomatoes.
Hospitality in City Bayview is top notch. An old hotel with its slightly worn interiors, old fashioned courtesy is never lacking here. Its staff are always attentive, polite and helpful from the cleaners, the bellboys to the check-in desk, the waiters and the room service attendants. The hotel serves a large number of foreigners and are accustomed to their demands hence the practiced efficiency.
Night life consist of an in-house lounge that features live bands 24/7. Adjacent to the hotel is Carmen Tiger Pub, a more upbeat entertainment outlet but the highlight of night life lies just behind the hotel where a host of pubs and clubs line the street from the famous Glo and Slippery Senoritas to Garage and many more. These same streets hold a charity bazaar every weekend.
We chanced upon a wedding reception during one of our stays. The ballroom is cosy but the buffet spread takes your breath away.
Vehicle parking is a little strained as the 3rd floor is not accessible by the elevator. Although parking for hotel guests is complimentary, each trip out calls for a visit to the reception for a stamp on your parking ticket.
We usually have a room that overlooks the ocean with its swaying coconut trees, antiquated bungalows enhancing the scenery and seafaring vessels dotting the horizon. If you do get a room like so, you'll be greeted with a spectacular sunrise. City Bayview has been unjustly labeled as a 3 star hotel so it charges affordable 3 star rates. There's no excuse not to park youself there when visiting Penang.
Our stay in City Bayview have always been pleasant ones and we look forward to more treats like this whenever we have video production projects in the little island of Penang.
Penang is a common feature in most multi-national company's calender. Consequently, we travel frequently to this island for video projects, on shoots lasting for days. Comfortable lodging and clean, delectable food guarantee our videography team a fresh and enthusiastic start the following day.
Located just across from the more opulent Eastern and Oriental Hotel but overlooking the sea nevertheless, City Bayview offers comfortable, cosy and most importantly, clean, tidy rooms. Its beds are a joy to sleep in and promises a bright and early start the following morning. The TV channels offer local and cable programmes. Unlike other hotels, there's no need to request a channel from the hotel- they're all viewable. Cable channels are up 27/7 without any offline time.
One of my favourite cafes is just around the corner. Segafredo's panini and foccachia sandwiches are irresistible. Beware for sometimes they don't serve food, only beverages. Countering this unpredictability is City Bayview's 'hawker centre'.
The hotel operates a small row of stalls that serve the simple nasi lemak, roti canai, mee goreng etc. Granted Penang is in a league of its own when it comes to food, most penangites would scoff at the simple offerings of Bayview Hotel. However, the hotel's duck egg char kuey teow holds its own against any other similar stalls. Only the most traveled city slicker can taste the difference. What the hawker stalls lack in variety it makes up for in convenience. The stalls are located just 30 feet away from the main entrance.
One of the joys of staying in City Bayview is its breakfast. I hold breakfast as a sacred ritual, an indication of the day's events. My impression of a hotel is mostly based on its breakfast spread and City Bayview does not disappoint. In fact, it raises the bar for my appraisal of lodging and accommodation.
In addition to the usual fried noodles, rice, porridge, hams, chicken, sausages, various pastries and desserts, City Bayview boasts two stalls that cook roti canai and eggs (fried, scrambled or omelette) on demand so they are always fresh. The omelette version is packed with capsicums, ham, cheese and tomatoes.
Hospitality in City Bayview is top notch. An old hotel with its slightly worn interiors, old fashioned courtesy is never lacking here. Its staff are always attentive, polite and helpful from the cleaners, the bellboys to the check-in desk, the waiters and the room service attendants. The hotel serves a large number of foreigners and are accustomed to their demands hence the practiced efficiency.
Night life consist of an in-house lounge that features live bands 24/7. Adjacent to the hotel is Carmen Tiger Pub, a more upbeat entertainment outlet but the highlight of night life lies just behind the hotel where a host of pubs and clubs line the street from the famous Glo and Slippery Senoritas to Garage and many more. These same streets hold a charity bazaar every weekend.
We chanced upon a wedding reception during one of our stays. The ballroom is cosy but the buffet spread takes your breath away.
Vehicle parking is a little strained as the 3rd floor is not accessible by the elevator. Although parking for hotel guests is complimentary, each trip out calls for a visit to the reception for a stamp on your parking ticket.
We usually have a room that overlooks the ocean with its swaying coconut trees, antiquated bungalows enhancing the scenery and seafaring vessels dotting the horizon. If you do get a room like so, you'll be greeted with a spectacular sunrise. City Bayview has been unjustly labeled as a 3 star hotel so it charges affordable 3 star rates. There's no excuse not to park youself there when visiting Penang.
Our stay in City Bayview have always been pleasant ones and we look forward to more treats like this whenever we have video production projects in the little island of Penang.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Venue Review: Holiday Villa Subang
Holiday Villa... that name brings many happy memories to my mind.
My wife and I had our wedding reception in December 2007 at the Victorian and I acknowledge that the staff were very punctual, efficient, professional and courteous. Our meeting with Ms. Devaki, Event Manager was pleasant and in-depth. All the better to get things running smoothly.
At the time, we did not have to pay any corkage charges and we had 25 bottles of Frontera Chilean wine complimentary of the hotel. Furthermore, since we brought our own projector, we could make use of the HUGE projector screen that was smack right in the middle of the stage. It was so huge, I could notice the smallest details even if I was seated at the last table.
Since we are in the video production line, we prepared a video presentation that was to be played on the night itself. I was given the freedom to test the video with our projector and DVD player a week before the event. They even had an AV technician on standby to make sure I faced no difficulties. NO EXTRA CHARGE.
The banquet staff was always at our beck and call. Our banquet coordinator was Ridzwan and he made sure that at least one of his staff was within earshot of us. On that night, my wife developed a headache and our waiter wasted no time in running out to get her aspirin tablets.
The venue was clean and the food especially, deserves special comment: our relatives and friends gave beaming compliments about the food, saying that the food was even better than many restaurants they've attended. Some who were present during the food tasting claimed that their feedback to the chef regarding the food was actually followed through! Quite a feat, considering they have so many chefs.
We had a rather time-sensitive presentation for our march-in: professional violinist Genervie Kam will lead us in just as the video presentation ends. The AV technician must immediately play a musical piece that will sync with our violinist's tunes. That went so well, no one thought there were so much anxiety involved in the march-in. Again, being in the video production industry, I must say their technicians know their stuff.
Another thing worth mentioning is the way the Victorian is structured. You get a nice cocktail area outside the dining hall that comes complete with a small waterfall and lined with sculptures. For the tea ceremony, there is also a large enough hall right next to the ballroom where a small buffet can be served after the formalities. We were given 2 complimentary rooms which were only a few floors up, accessible by elevator.
The car park is also just a short walk away from the Victorian ballroom. All are these locations are centred around the ballroom making last-minute visits to any other rooms a short walk away. Plus, there is a very small lounge tucked away in the ballroom that can double as a dressing room and as a room to prepare payment at the end of the dinner.
As a professional wedding videographer, the Victorian is an ideal location to shoot a wedding dinner. With their beautiful painted ceiling and romantic surroundings, it's easy to do good work in Holiday Villa.
My wife and I had our wedding reception in December 2007 at the Victorian and I acknowledge that the staff were very punctual, efficient, professional and courteous. Our meeting with Ms. Devaki, Event Manager was pleasant and in-depth. All the better to get things running smoothly.
At the time, we did not have to pay any corkage charges and we had 25 bottles of Frontera Chilean wine complimentary of the hotel. Furthermore, since we brought our own projector, we could make use of the HUGE projector screen that was smack right in the middle of the stage. It was so huge, I could notice the smallest details even if I was seated at the last table.
Since we are in the video production line, we prepared a video presentation that was to be played on the night itself. I was given the freedom to test the video with our projector and DVD player a week before the event. They even had an AV technician on standby to make sure I faced no difficulties. NO EXTRA CHARGE.
The banquet staff was always at our beck and call. Our banquet coordinator was Ridzwan and he made sure that at least one of his staff was within earshot of us. On that night, my wife developed a headache and our waiter wasted no time in running out to get her aspirin tablets.
The venue was clean and the food especially, deserves special comment: our relatives and friends gave beaming compliments about the food, saying that the food was even better than many restaurants they've attended. Some who were present during the food tasting claimed that their feedback to the chef regarding the food was actually followed through! Quite a feat, considering they have so many chefs.
We had a rather time-sensitive presentation for our march-in: professional violinist Genervie Kam will lead us in just as the video presentation ends. The AV technician must immediately play a musical piece that will sync with our violinist's tunes. That went so well, no one thought there were so much anxiety involved in the march-in. Again, being in the video production industry, I must say their technicians know their stuff.
Another thing worth mentioning is the way the Victorian is structured. You get a nice cocktail area outside the dining hall that comes complete with a small waterfall and lined with sculptures. For the tea ceremony, there is also a large enough hall right next to the ballroom where a small buffet can be served after the formalities. We were given 2 complimentary rooms which were only a few floors up, accessible by elevator.
The car park is also just a short walk away from the Victorian ballroom. All are these locations are centred around the ballroom making last-minute visits to any other rooms a short walk away. Plus, there is a very small lounge tucked away in the ballroom that can double as a dressing room and as a room to prepare payment at the end of the dinner.
As a professional wedding videographer, the Victorian is an ideal location to shoot a wedding dinner. With their beautiful painted ceiling and romantic surroundings, it's easy to do good work in Holiday Villa.
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Wedding Wisdom: Foot Ball
My wife and I started shopping for her pair of wedding shoes six months before our wedding. We wanted a pair of shoes for her that would embody her personality and style. We didn't want to leave that responsibility to the bridal studio. The issue wasn't a question of their competency or their collection of foot attire, we wanted shoes that she could keep after our wedding both as a souvenir and for her wardrobe.
We visited more than 10 boutiques in town, some of them speacilising in bridal foot wear before settling for 2 pairs of shoes that would go with her wedding gown and her dinner gown.
Now, as a professional wedding videographer, I have had the opportunity to record on video many brides slipping on their high-heels on their wedding day. This segment is an integral part of a wedding video. Oftentimes, we also record the groom donning his suit and fastening his corsage. We want to show the bride getting ready to receive her groom and the groom preparing to meet his bride.
There was one video we did where part of the door game required the groom to look for his bride's shoe which was hidden somewhere in the house. After an exhaustive search, he had to slip the shoes onto her feet.
As you might have expected, for the exquisite, bejeweled, perfect-fit shoes to show up on camera, the bride's bare feet will be clearly visible in the video too. Which is why as a bride, you must never forget to have a complete pedicure.
I strongly advice that future brides get a pedicure at least 3 days before their wedding day. A pedicure by a professional is meant to be relaxing and relatively inexpensive. Grooming your feet or any part of your body, for that matter is never a waste of time. If you can spend on your shoes, you might as well spend a little on your feet. After all, they've brought you this far!
We visited more than 10 boutiques in town, some of them speacilising in bridal foot wear before settling for 2 pairs of shoes that would go with her wedding gown and her dinner gown.
Now, as a professional wedding videographer, I have had the opportunity to record on video many brides slipping on their high-heels on their wedding day. This segment is an integral part of a wedding video. Oftentimes, we also record the groom donning his suit and fastening his corsage. We want to show the bride getting ready to receive her groom and the groom preparing to meet his bride.
There was one video we did where part of the door game required the groom to look for his bride's shoe which was hidden somewhere in the house. After an exhaustive search, he had to slip the shoes onto her feet.
As you might have expected, for the exquisite, bejeweled, perfect-fit shoes to show up on camera, the bride's bare feet will be clearly visible in the video too. Which is why as a bride, you must never forget to have a complete pedicure.
I strongly advice that future brides get a pedicure at least 3 days before their wedding day. A pedicure by a professional is meant to be relaxing and relatively inexpensive. Grooming your feet or any part of your body, for that matter is never a waste of time. If you can spend on your shoes, you might as well spend a little on your feet. After all, they've brought you this far!
Friday, March 7, 2008
Wedding Wisdom: Sleeping Beauty
I got married last year. Our wedding, as it turned out was a fun and memorable event, punctuated by Genervie Kam's violin rhapsody and our MC, Angie Ng whose husky voice charmed everyone.
Although the events unfolded like clockwork, smooth as silk, through it all, my wife's lack of sleep the previous day made me anxious for her.
Both of us being professionals in the Video Production industry, know what it's like being behind the video camera. We've recorded numerous corporate and personal events but this time, we were in front of the camera, a very interesting about face.
A good night's sleep before your wedding is essential to guarantee a fresh start the following day. Granted we are no stranger to sleepless nights sometimes required in our profession, the average adult should be getting about 8 hours of sleep daily to function at optimum the next day.
Without a restful sleep, a bride will be edgy and easily irritated. She is anxious and gets worried easily about the most mundane things. This in turn will cast a dark cloud over the entire wedding proceedings. Your wedding day is meant to be enjoyed by the both of you, don't let lack of sleep rob you of this joy.
Insufficient sleep will also give you a pale and dry complexion. Your make-up artist has to work hard to earn her keep! But why put on an extra layer of make-up to conceal the dullness of your face when a good night's sleep will do the trick?
If you've been planning earnestly for your wedding, there should be no more last minute details that requires your attention. Leave the rest to your wedding team, after all that's what they're paid for and if they are your friends and relatives,your plans should be in good hands... after all, you appointed them!
Remember, it is highly unlikely you will be able to get another wink of sleep the entire day. I spent my afternoon going back to our new house with our videographer and photographer, getting stuck in the jam returning to the hotel, helping her remove the pins and clips from her hair, checking up on the AV system and live band etc. Before I realised it, I was slipping on my tux.
My wife had to be up at dawn for her make-up artist to work her magic. She had to remain stationary until her make-up was finished... try doing that without nodding off! Then it was time to strap on her heavy wedding gown.
Being sleep deprived will make you look worse for wear on camera and especially on video. It's not just your complexion that's at stake, it's your expression that will give the game away. Your listless, frowning stare into space is not a pretty sight!
It was rough for us, we had to manage many things ourselves but we had friends who were reliable and steadfast to whom we are grateful for. The key here is to trust your friends and the professionals you've hired to help you. Insufficient sleep does not allow you to do that, you'll end up micro-managing everyone.
In the end, you have to stay awake to breathe it all in, your wedding day! There will not be another day like this! Savour every waking moment, enjoy every sight and sound and remember every emotion!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Wedding Wisdom: Lips to Lips
Today, I'll be covering a rather interesting topic: The Kiss.
I'm not talking about just any kiss, I'm referring to the wedding kiss. Unlike the more intimate and private lip work between a boyfriend and a girlfriend or between a husband and wife, the wedding kiss is mostly a public affair. Everyone and her dog gets to see the groom kiss the bride... all the more to do it well.
The Wedding Kiss DOs and DON'Ts
DO kiss the bride slowly and with a little passion. The reduction in speed is for the benefit of the cameras and video.
DO NOT just give her a peck on the cheek. You peck your auntie on the cheek, you may kiss your mum on the forehead but you kiss your bride on the lips!
DO put one arm around her waist and cup her face with your other hand before planting your kiss on her lips.
DO NOT look elsewhere when kissing each other. A good kisser always closes his or her eyes during lip contact.
DO put both hands around your husband's neck when kissing him.
DO NOT forget to wipe any sweat from your face before kissing your bride.
DO refrain from touching your bride's hair because she has spent the entire morning making sure each curl is where it should be. DO NOT touch her face, for that matter.
DO NOT wipe her lipstick away with your lips. Most of the kissing is done by body language, not how hard you press your lips against each other or how much lip suction you apply on each other.
The above principle apply to kissing at Church, during the toasting ceremony and whenever it is called for during the wedding.
Last but not least, DO REMEMBER to remove her veil before performing the kiss!
Friday, February 15, 2008
Venue Review: Parking: Overseas Restaurant, Armada Hotel
Overseas Restaurant
Armada Hotel
1st Hour: RM 2
Subsequent hour: RM 2.50
Event patrons/flat rate: NONE
Armada Hotel
1st Hour: RM 2
Subsequent hour: RM 2.50
Event patrons/flat rate: NONE
Venue Review: Parking: Holiday Villa Subang
Holiday Villa (Subang Jaya)
1st hour: RM 4
2nd/subsequent hour: RM 2
Event patrons/flat rate: RM 4
1st hour: RM 4
2nd/subsequent hour: RM 2
Event patrons/flat rate: RM 4
Venue Review: Parking: KL Hilton
KL Hilton
1st hour: RM 6
2nd/subsequent hour: RM 4
Event patrons/flat rate: RM 8
1st hour: RM 6
2nd/subsequent hour: RM 4
Event patrons/flat rate: RM 8
Saturday, February 9, 2008
Pro Talk: March-in Blues Leaves Impression
The momentous march-in, when the groom walks into the dining hall with his bride looking oh so happy together on their wedding day, sets the mood for the evening.
For many relatives, friends, colleagues etc. this is the first time they set their eyes on the married couple. This is your first opportunity to strut your stuff.
We've witnessed many couples walk into the dining hall looking as if the world owes them a favour. Faces blank, strides long and hands not interlocked with each other.
Your dinner guests will be indirectly affected by your initial outlook. What should be a happy, romantic evening may end up as a sombre dinner outing.
Before they make their grand entrance, we now take our clients aside for a short briefing:
1) Always smile. Smile like its going out of fashion. Let everyone know that you've been waiting all your life for this eventful day and you're real joyful about it.
2) Always wave. You are both guests of honour and ALL eyes are on you. So wave to your guests, wave a lot, acknowledge their presence. This simple act will make you look good on both the photo and video camera.
3) Walk slow. How slow? About 2 seconds for every stride. This will allow your guests to have get an eyeful of both of you. A slow entrance will also give your photograpers and/or videographers time to reposition themselves for better angles.
4) Familiarise yourselves with the route. It's a short, very short journey to your VIP table, but remember that for dramatic effect, the lights will be dimmed and one huge spotlight will be aimed at your face so you won't get to see much ahead of you.
5) Hold hands all the way. Never leave your bride behind.
6) Always seat your bride FIRST! Contrary to contemporary belief, chivalry is not dead. Pull the chair out for your bride, seat her comfortably and only then do you allow yourself to be seated. For chinese weddings, the groom seats on the left of his bride.
There you have it. These are some of the many reasons they call it the Grand Entrance. Besides endearing you to your spouse, following these steps will also make you look really good on camera.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Wedding Wisdom: Don't Let RSVP Get Out of Fashion
Be Courteous: Don't let RSVP get out of fashion
When guests don't RSVP, they simply give a negative impression to their host, 'I don't really care that your dinner is more important than my schedule. I'll let you know if nothing else more important comes my way.'
A lot of thought goes into the Guest List. The RSVP is all the more important when it involves a sit-down dinner. Each seat must be accounted for to make the celebration a memorable one.
RSVP or its french origin, répondez s'il vous plaît, means literally 'please reply'.
The majority of Malaysian guests have never practiced this virtue. We fail to recognize that our hosts spent many sleepless nights planning one of their most important event of their lives. When you are invited and refuse to give your reply within a specified time stated in the invitation card, you're just being very rude.
Back in the command centre, your hosts will have a terrible time trying to arrange the table seating, confirm the number of heads to the banquet manager, etc. This can be a nerve-wrecking experience especially to the bride since she's usually the one who manages the guest list AND she's got a whole bunch of 'bride stuff' to do.
My experience as a groom has led me to believe that those who RSVP within the time-frame given is in real life, men and women of honour. They are courteous and polite, thoughtful in knowing that others have put in so much time and effort for them, the least they could do is RSVP
When guests don't RSVP, they simply give a negative impression to their host, 'I don't really care that your dinner is more important than my schedule. I'll let you know if nothing else more important comes my way.'
A lot of thought goes into the Guest List. The RSVP is all the more important when it involves a sit-down dinner. Each seat must be accounted for to make the celebration a memorable one.
RSVP or its french origin, répondez s'il vous plaît, means literally 'please reply'.
The majority of Malaysian guests have never practiced this virtue. We fail to recognize that our hosts spent many sleepless nights planning one of their most important event of their lives. When you are invited and refuse to give your reply within a specified time stated in the invitation card, you're just being very rude.
Back in the command centre, your hosts will have a terrible time trying to arrange the table seating, confirm the number of heads to the banquet manager, etc. This can be a nerve-wrecking experience especially to the bride since she's usually the one who manages the guest list AND she's got a whole bunch of 'bride stuff' to do.
My experience as a groom has led me to believe that those who RSVP within the time-frame given is in real life, men and women of honour. They are courteous and polite, thoughtful in knowing that others have put in so much time and effort for them, the least they could do is RSVP
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Pro Talk: Eyes See, Therefore I am
It's in the eyes, man. That's the basic quality that distinguishes a videographer from the rest of God's children. The good news is he's not born with it. A videographer sees better, faster and is able to capture more detail in a scene than the average Joe because he has trained for it.
A good videographer takes good care of his eyes because that's his single most important equipment. It essentially makes him what he is. Whether scientifically or nutritionally proven or not, as far as diets go, I take all my carrots and find excuses to have eggs as often as humanly possible.
I must see in equal clarity at a distance what I can perceive at close range. Your eye muscles function the same as the rest of your voluntary muscles (eg. biceps, triceps, abdominals): no pain, no gain. The more you work them, the better they become. Read at a distance outside your comfort zone, strain your eyes to focus on near objects then switch focus to objects further away. Work them often.
Composition and colour. The videographer's ability to preceive and complement colour stem from his elementary skill as a graphic designer. Evidently all graphic designers make good photographers/videographers. It's all in the practice. The most effective way to pick up this skill is through constant appreciation of well composed colour photographs.
Perception of light. A good videographer has the ability to:
1) Gauge where light sources are.
2) Determine if existing light is sufficient for his video camera.
3) Feel if the subject is under the proper lighting conditions.
4) Add additional light sources if existing lighting conditions aren't appropriate.
5) Set the lights for a desired mood.
It's not that the videographer's eyes are better than others, it's all in the constant honing of his abilities but bear in mind that it's indeed his most important asset. A videographer's eyes needs constant tender loving care.
A good videographer takes good care of his eyes because that's his single most important equipment. It essentially makes him what he is. Whether scientifically or nutritionally proven or not, as far as diets go, I take all my carrots and find excuses to have eggs as often as humanly possible.
I must see in equal clarity at a distance what I can perceive at close range. Your eye muscles function the same as the rest of your voluntary muscles (eg. biceps, triceps, abdominals): no pain, no gain. The more you work them, the better they become. Read at a distance outside your comfort zone, strain your eyes to focus on near objects then switch focus to objects further away. Work them often.
Composition and colour. The videographer's ability to preceive and complement colour stem from his elementary skill as a graphic designer. Evidently all graphic designers make good photographers/videographers. It's all in the practice. The most effective way to pick up this skill is through constant appreciation of well composed colour photographs.
Perception of light. A good videographer has the ability to:
1) Gauge where light sources are.
2) Determine if existing light is sufficient for his video camera.
3) Feel if the subject is under the proper lighting conditions.
4) Add additional light sources if existing lighting conditions aren't appropriate.
5) Set the lights for a desired mood.
It's not that the videographer's eyes are better than others, it's all in the constant honing of his abilities but bear in mind that it's indeed his most important asset. A videographer's eyes needs constant tender loving care.
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Pro Talk: Video Lights Make For A Brighter Future
Even with the debut of new technology and the advancement of video camera chips, we all know that a wedding dinner can be a very 'dim' situation.
Although the newer video cameras perform better in low light conditions compared to its predecessors, the lighting condition in hotels and restaurants still pose a challenge to videographers.
The obvious solution would be to deploy mobile video lights. These unsophisticated little helpers are very much brighter than the strongest flashlight out there, cause a tremendous amount of heat and tend to be an annoyance during wedding dinners.
If mobile video lights are not used at all, the footage shot will be grainy (lots of dots, similar to white noise) and desaturated (loss of colour) making for a very unamusing wedding video.
These lights are not usually attached to the video camera since pointing the light from an 'offset' angle produce tasteful romantic footage. To do this, professional videographers travel in pairs, his/her assistant being the 'light stand' and battery holder. Mobile video lights are paired with pretty heavy batteries.
I've heard my peers telling me that their clients disapprove of video lights as they are disruptive and spoil the mood lighting in the wedding dinner.
My question to you is: Will you agree to videographers deploying mobile video lights? What are your thoughts in this matter.
A note to future brides and grooms: Be prepared for this eventuality let us know how we can assist you in your most romantic episode.
Although the newer video cameras perform better in low light conditions compared to its predecessors, the lighting condition in hotels and restaurants still pose a challenge to videographers.
The obvious solution would be to deploy mobile video lights. These unsophisticated little helpers are very much brighter than the strongest flashlight out there, cause a tremendous amount of heat and tend to be an annoyance during wedding dinners.
If mobile video lights are not used at all, the footage shot will be grainy (lots of dots, similar to white noise) and desaturated (loss of colour) making for a very unamusing wedding video.
These lights are not usually attached to the video camera since pointing the light from an 'offset' angle produce tasteful romantic footage. To do this, professional videographers travel in pairs, his/her assistant being the 'light stand' and battery holder. Mobile video lights are paired with pretty heavy batteries.
I've heard my peers telling me that their clients disapprove of video lights as they are disruptive and spoil the mood lighting in the wedding dinner.
My question to you is: Will you agree to videographers deploying mobile video lights? What are your thoughts in this matter.
A note to future brides and grooms: Be prepared for this eventuality let us know how we can assist you in your most romantic episode.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Wedding Wisdom: MC Savvy
He or she is essentially the producer of your wedding dinner/banquet/reception. The Master of Ceremonies ought to be held in high regard, much thought has to be placed in deciding who gets to be your MC because oftentimes, the MC is the mediator between the hotel/restaurant and you.
The MC officially starts your wedding dinner, gives the cue for your grand entrance, coordinates with the hotel regarding the commencement of dinner, announces your first dance, officiates your champagne toasting, even providing the introduction for any VIP speeches.
In effect, the Master of Ceremonies dictate the flow and style of your evening's proceedings. Engage a simple, down to earth MC and expect an uneventful evening. A skillful MC, eloquent and elegant, will set a most romantic mood, make your guests feel right at home, delight your audience with witty humour and even help you and your lover feel at ease despite the mounting tension.
A professional Master of Ceremonies is level headed and cool. She is the last person to panic when everything goes south. Then again, a good MC will not let anything sour your special day. She is the one everyone turns to in your absence, sometimes even in your presence. She is the glue that keeps everyone tight and she's the oil that makes everything run smoothly. The MC should be able to remember your program by heart and even recite it backwards. She has contingency plans in the event your program doesn't go accordingly and believe me, after so many weddings we've attended, they never do.
Here are some things to consider before you appoint an MC
1) How do you want others to perceive your wedding:
Simple and nice? Elegant and sophisticated? Romantic as in a fairy tale? Cozy and comfortable?
2) The choice of language:
In Malaysia, language will significantly narrow your search for an MC. Let the majority of your guest list decide this for you.
3) Your budget:
An MC who is proactive tend to help you keep things under control at the expense of your wallet. The more experienced they come, the more expensive they are.
4) Flexibility:
Some MCs will oblige you for an evening of fun and witty banter but they won't put on the elegant and sophisticated hat for you. It may well turn out that your favourite candidate may turn you down.
5) Outlook
Would you prefer an older or a younger MC? A younger crowd may not be too thrilled to have an older MC host the event. Similarly, the older generation may want someone more mature. What about voice tonality? Fancy a baritone 'James Earl Jones' voice or do you prefer a more feminine personality?
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Wedding Wisdom: It's Game Over When You Tip Over!
The internet is packed full of useful advice for brides on what to do and what not to do on their wedding day. During our adventures as videographers for numerous weddings and corporate events, we've seen many awkward moments. Here's one advice which we're sure will benefit the grooms out there, particularly grooms who have planned a western/chinese wedding.
Drink in MODERATION!
We can't stress this often enough. Oftentimes you plan your wedding day up to a year ahead. You send out invitations, appoint your photographer and/or videographer, go for your suit fitting, get your new home and/or car in order, select your best man, plan that wedding song/poem, book the hotel/restaurant... all that preparation, not necessarily in that order, only to ruin it all on your wedding night by getting drunk.
You're the man of the hour. All eyes are on you and your beautiful bride, it's your most memorable day. Your wedding dinner cannot proceed if you're slumped over a table or spending excess amount of time hugging the toilet bowl.
Take caution, your photographers and videographers will face a hard time trying to fill in the gap if you're down and out. Half drunk isn't good either, since you'll be swaying and saying things you'll regret the next day.
Almost every table you offer to toast will issue a challenge to you that you down copious amount of alcohol. The master blenders who made brandy or whisky or wines will weep if they see you down in one gulp what took them decades to perfect!
Wines and spirits are made to be enjoyed, savoured slowly as one appreciates its flavour and fragrance.
Discuss with your fiance on how to approach the matter of friends issuing toasting/drinking challenges. Have a few good buddies nearby who can help you out of a tough situation.
Know your limits. Better for you to turn down a few drinks and remain conscious than give your guests a lingering, sour memory of you in a stupor being carried away by your friends.
Drink in MODERATION!
We can't stress this often enough. Oftentimes you plan your wedding day up to a year ahead. You send out invitations, appoint your photographer and/or videographer, go for your suit fitting, get your new home and/or car in order, select your best man, plan that wedding song/poem, book the hotel/restaurant... all that preparation, not necessarily in that order, only to ruin it all on your wedding night by getting drunk.
You're the man of the hour. All eyes are on you and your beautiful bride, it's your most memorable day. Your wedding dinner cannot proceed if you're slumped over a table or spending excess amount of time hugging the toilet bowl.
Take caution, your photographers and videographers will face a hard time trying to fill in the gap if you're down and out. Half drunk isn't good either, since you'll be swaying and saying things you'll regret the next day.
Almost every table you offer to toast will issue a challenge to you that you down copious amount of alcohol. The master blenders who made brandy or whisky or wines will weep if they see you down in one gulp what took them decades to perfect!
Wines and spirits are made to be enjoyed, savoured slowly as one appreciates its flavour and fragrance.
Discuss with your fiance on how to approach the matter of friends issuing toasting/drinking challenges. Have a few good buddies nearby who can help you out of a tough situation.
Know your limits. Better for you to turn down a few drinks and remain conscious than give your guests a lingering, sour memory of you in a stupor being carried away by your friends.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Wedding Wisdom: The Guest List- A nightmare personified
The Guest List: A nightmare personified
Don't take this task lightly. The Guest List is a daunting obstacle you need to overcome if you want your table seating to be in order. Failing to finalize your guest list early is like nuclear fusion: it's going to set up a chain reaction that will possibly ruin an enjoyable wedding dinner!
When should you start planning on your guest list? The moment you say 'Yes' to his proposal!
Here's an example of the things that depend on your guest list:
1) Table confirmation
2) Table seating
3) Costing
4) Guest Registration
Your hotel/restaurant will need to know how many tables your require for the evening at least one week before your wedding night. Guests want to be seated next to people they know. Friends who are in charge of registration will need an accurate printout of your guest list for registration purposes. Without the guest list, you won't have an estimate of how much the dinner is going to cost you.
If your husband is not anxious by then, he must really be the strong silent type.
Most hotels/restaurant will allocate at least one table in reserve for those 'difficult' guests who decide to show up without informing you. Those who don't RSVP may just show up unannounced. In one wedding where we were videographers, an entire family of 7 members showed up. Worst of all, they didn't bother to register but walked right into the ballroom. The host had to deploy the reserve table.
Always communicate. One week from your wedding day, inform guests politely that due to time constraint, you can't wait any longer for their confirmation, you will not include them in your wedding dinner. This is easier said than done.
Print a neat Guest List with columns for:
1) Names
2) Groom or Bride's side
3) The number of attendee for each head of family
4) RSVP status
5) Table no.
Make additional copies for the Registration Table (at least 2 copies) and yourself. Make another list for seating arrangements, basically a list of tables with its diners.
Elect close friends or relatives for your guest registration. Try to avoid situations where no one knows your guest when they arrive. Make sure you delegate this job to people who are familiar with most of your family/friends/clients. This is a time-sensitive job, ensure they are at the registration table on time!
Get the floor plan of the ballroom from the hotel/restaurant which they will gladly provide.
Remember, it's highly unlikely your Guest List will be carved in stone. Even the best event planners for the most prestigious parties have last minute cancellations or guests deciding they want to attend after all.
Try to be flexible but have the wisdom to know when to put your foot down. Trust the friends you put in charge of your registration. On your wedding day, you have more important things to worry about, like... YOU! So get out there, relax and smile!
Don't take this task lightly. The Guest List is a daunting obstacle you need to overcome if you want your table seating to be in order. Failing to finalize your guest list early is like nuclear fusion: it's going to set up a chain reaction that will possibly ruin an enjoyable wedding dinner!
When should you start planning on your guest list? The moment you say 'Yes' to his proposal!
Here's an example of the things that depend on your guest list:
1) Table confirmation
2) Table seating
3) Costing
4) Guest Registration
Your hotel/restaurant will need to know how many tables your require for the evening at least one week before your wedding night. Guests want to be seated next to people they know. Friends who are in charge of registration will need an accurate printout of your guest list for registration purposes. Without the guest list, you won't have an estimate of how much the dinner is going to cost you.
If your husband is not anxious by then, he must really be the strong silent type.
Most hotels/restaurant will allocate at least one table in reserve for those 'difficult' guests who decide to show up without informing you. Those who don't RSVP may just show up unannounced. In one wedding where we were videographers, an entire family of 7 members showed up. Worst of all, they didn't bother to register but walked right into the ballroom. The host had to deploy the reserve table.
Always communicate. One week from your wedding day, inform guests politely that due to time constraint, you can't wait any longer for their confirmation, you will not include them in your wedding dinner. This is easier said than done.
Print a neat Guest List with columns for:
1) Names
2) Groom or Bride's side
3) The number of attendee for each head of family
4) RSVP status
5) Table no.
Make additional copies for the Registration Table (at least 2 copies) and yourself. Make another list for seating arrangements, basically a list of tables with its diners.
Elect close friends or relatives for your guest registration. Try to avoid situations where no one knows your guest when they arrive. Make sure you delegate this job to people who are familiar with most of your family/friends/clients. This is a time-sensitive job, ensure they are at the registration table on time!
Get the floor plan of the ballroom from the hotel/restaurant which they will gladly provide.
Remember, it's highly unlikely your Guest List will be carved in stone. Even the best event planners for the most prestigious parties have last minute cancellations or guests deciding they want to attend after all.
Try to be flexible but have the wisdom to know when to put your foot down. Trust the friends you put in charge of your registration. On your wedding day, you have more important things to worry about, like... YOU! So get out there, relax and smile!
Wedding Wisdom: Confetti crackers add glitter
It's true. The next time you walk out of your bride's home, hand in hand, broad smile on you face, have some friends standing by with confetti crackers. In a home environment, very little else can add last minute glamour to your wedding video than bits of glitter streaming down you and your other half as you walk out the house or walk down the red carpet in a hotel setting.
Our experience as video production specialists we've seen various wedding videos getting the confetti treatment and we are now advising our clients to invest in at least two confetti crackers. It's one of those little detail that add dazzle to the presentation which you tend to overlook during your busy schedule. Imagine the industry size confetti cannons that are used during a concert's finale and you'll know what I mean. They give the performance that bling factor. The home version is inexpensive and easy to set up.
The advantages:
1) Value for money- looks great on video. Confetti crackers costs very little.
2) Easy to set up- all you need are two friends handling one cracker each. Just one twist on the cracker and it'll send bits of shiny foil all over the place.
The disadvantages:
1) Very messy- if you have no one on hand to clean up, be prepared to live with bits and pieces on the ground/wedding car, your hair etc. Some hotels may take offence to this. Be sure to check.
2) Shock & awe- whoever plans to use this technique, please inform the bride and groom early. We've seen too many startled expressions on the bride and groom's face as they weren't told in advance hence they were shocked by the crackers' bang. This affects the video in a negative way.
There you have it. So go out and purchase a pair for your wedding. Oh, one more thing. Do be kind enough to let your videographer/photographer know about this setup in advance. We've seen many videographers jump during recording, from the shock of the blast, which spoils the shot.
Have fun :)
Our experience as video production specialists we've seen various wedding videos getting the confetti treatment and we are now advising our clients to invest in at least two confetti crackers. It's one of those little detail that add dazzle to the presentation which you tend to overlook during your busy schedule. Imagine the industry size confetti cannons that are used during a concert's finale and you'll know what I mean. They give the performance that bling factor. The home version is inexpensive and easy to set up.
The advantages:
1) Value for money- looks great on video. Confetti crackers costs very little.
2) Easy to set up- all you need are two friends handling one cracker each. Just one twist on the cracker and it'll send bits of shiny foil all over the place.
The disadvantages:
1) Very messy- if you have no one on hand to clean up, be prepared to live with bits and pieces on the ground/wedding car, your hair etc. Some hotels may take offence to this. Be sure to check.
2) Shock & awe- whoever plans to use this technique, please inform the bride and groom early. We've seen too many startled expressions on the bride and groom's face as they weren't told in advance hence they were shocked by the crackers' bang. This affects the video in a negative way.
There you have it. So go out and purchase a pair for your wedding. Oh, one more thing. Do be kind enough to let your videographer/photographer know about this setup in advance. We've seen many videographers jump during recording, from the shock of the blast, which spoils the shot.
Have fun :)
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