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If you have the choice, use a digital video camera.
Digital video (DV) cameras are the easiest video cameras to use and produce the best quality picture. (Test everything out before you buy!)
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Find out about all four methods of editing.
You can try in-camera editing (shooting the movie in order, from first to last shot); use a VCR deck and just press record and pause; use an analog editing system (a high-tech version of two VCR decks); or do non-linear editing on your computer. Non-linear editing is the most user-friendly and mistake-proof method, but they will all serve your purpose.
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Use your imagination.
If you really want to tell the classic boy-meets-girl story, go right ahead. But take some time to think about the movie you want to make. Can you say what you want with fewer words? With words alone? Follow your heart...
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You don't need a script, just a storyboard.
Both of these are important, but only a storyboard is necessary. A storyboard helps you set up shots in your head before handling the video camera. Of course, if you're making a fiction film, a script is pretty important too. Either way, the point is to plan!
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Don't be afraid of the camera.
Don't toss it around, but touch all the buttons and figure out exactly what each can do.
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Lighting is important.
Things need to be well lit on camera, but too much light will cause white spots and shadows (which can be nice for dramatic effect unless you were not expecting them). Play around with it.
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Sound is important.
Always use headphones. A boom mic works best for recording voices. Always tell people to speak up if they are talking in front of the camera.
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Don't edit until you have a detailed plan.
Take notes while you're shooting and then look through your footage and decide what you want to do with it.
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If you are using non-linear editing, remember to compress!
Non-linear editing is great, because your movie is on a computer and can be transferred easily. But you really have to pay attention to compression, the process of making video clips watchable while not taking up too much space. It's a fine line. If your clips are too big, they will cause crashes. If they are too small, they will look jumpy.
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Get some training and experience...
Film school is pretty important. Or get involved with your school's video club or local community television.
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