Shooting Music Videos
MUSIC VIDEO: THE
DIRECTOR OF PHOTOGRAPHY’S CREATIVE PLAYGROUND
Music videos are a medium that embraces
creativity. As a music video director of photography, I can take chances that
aren’t possible on commercial shoots. While budgets are usually small,
experimentation is encouraged. Here’s the best of what I’ve learned from almost
a decade as a music video cinematographer and director.
If
there’s a label, they’re the boss
The band is often the driving force behind
creating a music video, and may have a lot of creative input. Ultimately, if
the band is represented by a label, they make the final decisions. I was
director of photography for two music videos that ended up unreleased after
completion, for different reasons. Remember: music is a business, try to not
take it personally when things get complicated.
2. Bring some new toys
Music videos are a great place to use equipment
that’s a bit too bleeding-edge for commercial and narrative production. The
openness of artistic license can cover up some of the learning curve issues. As
a working director of photography, music videos are my favorite place to test
out the newest cameras, lenses, adapters, and even firmware.
3. Get some help
No matter how small you’d like the production to
be, there’s always going to be more to carry than the band can handle. Getting
help on early in the creative process might open you up to new creative ideas,
too.
Have a plan
Your music video may be relaxed, but you still
need the basics. First, get your locations, schedule, and talent figured out.
If you’re not the type to plan in advance, hire a producer! Don’t waste
everyone’s time by doing half the planning, because you won’t end up with half
of a music video.
5. Use what you’ve got
Music videos give you a chance to shoot in cool
locations. You can easily showcase cool props and anything iconic, because
you’re less tied to the rules of narrative or documentary storytelling. The
music video director of photography should be helping to create a world, not
just shoot the band. Choose places that are striking, but also easy to work
with. Choosing a place with “character” can help make your video more
memorable. Lots of people will let you use their spaces for free, if they like
the music.
6. Set some ground rules
Lots of bands don’t have experience working with
a professional video production team. It’s important to let them know how
things work. For lots of musicians, the culture is casual. Video production is
a complex and sometimes dangerous process. Everyone needs to show up ready to
work. Setting expectations early can help avoid awkward conversations later on.
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