There’s something about backyard video shoots that just seems to add an extra layer of creativity to the process. Maybe it’s the lack of studio constraints or the fact that a backyard is a place where you’re likely to be surrounded by friends and family. Either way, backyard video shoots always seem to result in some of the most creative and unique videos around.
However, when creating a backyard video shoot, there are a few key things to keep in mind in order to make sure the experience is successful. Proper preparation beforehand will make all the difference in ensuring a fun and stress-free shoot. From picking the right location to gathering the necessary supplies, you have to put in some work to prepare for a backyard shoot. Let’s take a look at how to prepare for your backyard video shoot.
Location And Shot Planning
It is crucial to know what you want to capture on camera before you start filming, as this will help you to stay organized and avoid wasting time on set. Additionally, scouting your location can help you to identify any potential problems or limitations that you may need to account for when filming. For example, if you are shooting in a small backyard, you may need to be careful not to block the view of the house from the camera angle. By planning your shots and scouting your location, you can avoid these types of issues and ensure that your shoot goes smoothly.
Lighting And Sound Considerations
Lighting is key to ensuring that the video looks good and is well-lit. Since you will be filming in the backyard, you need to make good use of the natural lighting. In order to achieve good lighting, it is important to position the sun so that it is behind the camera and to use reflectors to bounce light onto the subject.
Sound is also important and should be considered when selecting the location for the shoot. Background noise can interfere with the audio of the video and should be avoided if possible. Investing in good microphones will help you control noises and amplify the sounds that you want. Shotgun microphones are designed to capture sound from a wide area. They are often used in film and video production to capture audio from a scene or location. A shotgun mic is often used in conjunction with video cameras and is placed on the camera or in close proximity to the actor or subject.
Landscaping
If you are shooting a video in a backyard, it is important that create the perfect setting. This might mean that you need to rearrange patio furniture, playground equipment, lawn ornaments, or other items. Additionally, landscape maintenance is an important part of getting the backyard looking great. You can do a few things to make sure your backyard looks great in your video shoot. First, make sure the grass is mowed and trimmed. You may also want to consider adding mulch or rocks to your landscaping to give it a more polished look. Depending on where you are, you can search for “landscape maintenance Denver,” for example, to find lawn service in your area.
Weather Considerations
Any time you are planning a video shoot outside, you will be at the mercy of mother nature. Weather conditions can be a major factor when planning a video shoot. Rain, wind, and cold temperatures can make for an unpleasant experience and can lead to a lower quality video. Based on your shot list and production storyboard, you’ll want to ensure that you are getting the type of weather that you need for your scene. If possible, try to plan your shoot for a time when the weather is more favorable.
The creativity of backyard video shoots is really unmatched, and the results can be absolutely amazing. With some time and planning, you can capture excellent video.
