BV V: Composition Basics II

Following the past entries about introducing vlogging, or video blogging, these posts are intended to get more expats into making videos to share with one another.

After discussing most of the technical matters in filming, it is finally time to talk about my favorite lesson, composition.  Please keep in mind that these are merely guidelines which are usually followed and they are by no means absolutes, as sometimes breaking the “rules” gives you a much better effect. Still, following these some of these guidelines will make your pieces a much more polished look. This is a continuation of BV IV: Composition Basics

Headroom, Noseroom, & Leadroom

Regarding headroom, although it may not be possible always, keeping a persons head from being cut off on top is something that can be avoided by simply allowing more free space between the head of your subject and the top of the frame for movement.

Noseroom, leadroom, and headroom.

Also, imagine your subject is walking in a direction, you have to give them space or leadroom for the direction they are walking towards. Otherwise it looks like there is a wall they are about to hit.

Bad noseroom and leadroom as well.

 Fibonacci’s Spiral

The idea behind the Fibonacci Spiral is that peoples mind will gravitate in favor towards images that fall along the spiral pattern.

It may seem complicated but actually if you follow the rule of thirds, you will notice that the spirals center comes close to the same point (although not perfectly).

If possible, try to have patterns fall along the spiral line itself. Take this example from one of the shots scenes I took at Times Square Seoul.

The 180 Rule (Line of Action)

When filming two people, it is not unusual to take different shots from each, however the angles that you take these shots can be pretty important as well.

Imagine there is a line that runs through these two, you have to stay on one side of the line because if you cross and shoot from the other, it could confuse your audience. This is referred to as the line of action.

One you have established the placement, it can be pretty disorienting if you cross the line in shooting.

• If you do happen to break the rule! Be sure to show the camera moving to let the viewer know.

Triangles 

Triangles are interesting shapes. More interesting if you are able to incorporate them into a video. I do not mean to say that we should have a linear representation of a triangle (although that would be good too) but creating triangles based on three point figures will make the visual much more appealing.

These are more subtle triangles that we create by “connecting the dots.”

Background

After going through all this, it would be a shame to let something as simple as the background deter you and your work. Do keep in mind your background and any trees or poles that might stick out of your subjects head.

Better Vlogging series:

Better Vlogging I: Choosing the right Camera

Better Vlogging II: Sound and Microphones

Better Vlogging III: Know your Camera

Better Vlogging IV: Composition Basics I

Better Vlogging VI: Editing

Better Vlogging VII: Software Coming Soon!