Mistakes You Could Be Making as a Travel Videographer
The ability to shoot spectacular footage and communicate interesting stories is essential for a travel videographer. Even the most expert videographers can make mistakes that can derail a project or have an impact on the end result.
As a travel videographer, avoiding mistakes is critical since it can make the difference between a successful project and a squandered chance.
In this blog post, we will look at 10 typical mistakes made by travel videographers and how to avoid them. Whether you’re a seasoned worker or just getting started, these pointers can help you avoid costly mistakes and improve the quality of your work.
From failing to have a clear concept or strategy before recording to failing to pay attention to lighting and sound, these mistakes are common but easily avoided with a little foresight and preparation.
Avoid These Common Pitfalls: 10 Big Mistakes to Watch Out for as a Travel Videographer
Mistake #1: Not Having a Clear Concept or Plan Before Filming
Mistakes You Could Be Making as a Travel Videographer
One of the most common mistakes that trip videographers do is not having a defined concept or goal before filming. It can result in a disconnected and uninteresting end product due to a lack of direction and purpose in your film.
Without a clear concept or plan, you may struggle to collect the video you require, or you may waste time and resources on material that ultimately does not suit your project.
To prevent making this error, create a clear concept and plan before filming. This can be accomplished by first selecting your project’s principal topic or message, and then creating a shot list and storyboard to guide your filming. It’s also critical to investigate the place where you’ll be filming and be aware of the potential problems and opportunities.
Another suggestion is to construct a filming schedule, and it may be useful to have a backup plan in case of unanticipated complications or delays. And, if you’re working on a paid project, keep your client updated on your preparation and progress so they know what to expect during the filming process.
Mistake #2: Not Properly Researching and Scouting Locations
Big Mistakes to Watch Out for as a Travel Videographer
Another typical mistake that travel videographers do is failing to adequately study and scout areas.
This can result in a lack of understanding of the area, which can have an impact on the look and feel of your footage. It can also result in unanticipated problems, such as bad lighting or harsh weather conditions, making it more difficult to get the footage you require.
Furthermore, neglecting to adequately study and scout locations can result in legal concerns, such as filming in a prohibited area without the necessary rights.
To prevent making this error, thoroughly research and scout sites before filming. This can be accomplished by conducting online research, viewing images and videos of the region, and reading about the culture, customs, and laws of the area.
Furthermore, if possible, physically visit the location to get a sense of the layout, lighting, and other critical characteristics. This is referred to as a recce or reconnaissance. It’s also a good idea to talk to locals and get their advice on the best times and locations to film. Also, if you intend to film in a restricted area, be sure you have the necessary permits and permissions in place ahead of time.
Another suggestion is to be aware of the weather and plan accordingly.
For example, if you’re filming in an area known for its hot and sunny weather, you might want to organize your production schedule to avoid the hottest part of the day. And if you want to film in an area known for its damp and rainy weather, be sure you have the proper equipment to safeguard your equipment.
Mistake #3: Not Having Backup Equipment or Batteries
Big Mistakes to Watch Out for as a Travel Videographer
A critical error that can derail a trip videography project is not having backup equipment or batteries. Cameras, lenses, audio equipment, and other equipment can malfunction or break at any time, leaving you stuck without the capacity to shoot footage.
Furthermore, not having additional batteries can result in delays or missed chances if your batteries die unexpectedly.
To prevent making this mistake, always keep backup devices and batteries on hand. This can be accomplished by keeping a backup camera body, lens, or audio recorder on hand. It’s also a good idea to check your equipment regularly to ensure that it’s in good working order, and to pack extra batteries and chargers.
Another suggestion is to pack a multi-port USB charger so that you may charge numerous batteries at once. Bring a power bank or portable generator with you in case of power interruptions or if you’re filming in a remote location.
Additionally, backup memory cards and hard drives are required to ensure that no film is lost.
It is also a good idea to test your equipment and batteries before departing for your vacation to check that everything is in working order and that you have enough batteries to last the duration of your trip.
Furthermore, if you’re working on a paid project, you should have a backup plan in place in case of equipment failure, such as renting or borrowing equipment from a local rental firm.
Mistake #4: Not Capturing Enough B-Roll Footage
Big Mistakes to Watch Out for as a Travel Videographer
Capturing insufficient B-roll material is a mistake since it limits the editor’s possibilities for editing between different images. B-roll footage is extra footage used to complement primary footage, such as establishing shots, cutaways, and other visual components that help tell the story.
In the absence of sufficient B-roll video, the editor may be forced to use the same shot for a longer period of time than desired, resulting in a less visually attractive and engaging final product.
It is critical to plan ahead and consider the various sorts of shots that will be required to tell the tale in order to collect enough B-roll material. Here are some pointers for capturing B-roll footage:
- Obtain a variety of shots: Obtain alternative angles and viewpoints of the same subject to provide the editor with more options.
- Shoot additional footage: Having more video than you need allows you to choose and choose the greatest shots for the final edit.
- Take footage at various times of day: Because varied lighting can generate distinct moods, it can be beneficial to capture footage at several times of day to give the editor more alternatives.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Look for unusual locales, items, and backgrounds to use as B-roll film.
- Use a tripod: A stable shot is more entertaining to watch than a wobbly one, so using a tripod when filming B-roll footage might be beneficial.
- Capture movement: B-roll footage can be utilized to add movement to a scene, so capture the movement of people or things.
- Invest in a second camera: Having a second camera can help you capture alternative views or perspectives at the same time.
- Capture audio: Just as vital as video is audio, so make sure to record sound that can be used to augment the main film.
- Experiment with several techniques: To record unique and visually appealing film, experiment with different camera settings such as slow motion or time-lapse.
- Examine footage on a regular basis: Regularly analyzing footage will help you detect coverage gaps and ensure you’re getting an adequate B-roll.
It is also vital to note that B-roll film should be captured in a way that complements rather than distracts from the main material. Consider the main footage’s style, tone, and theme and plan accordingly.
Furthermore, having a clear understanding of the story you want to tell and what style of B-roll video will be required to support that story is beneficial.
Mistake #5: Not Paying Attention to Lighting and Sound
Mistakes You Could Be Making as a Travel Videographer
Paying too little attention to lighting and sound is a typical mistake that can have a significant impact on the quality of your vacation videography.
Poor lighting and sound might make your footage appear drab and uninteresting, while poor lighting and sound can make it difficult to grasp what’s being said or hear critical background sounds. These errors can have a significant impact on the overall appearance and feel of your video, making it less engaging for your audience.
To prevent making this error, pay close attention to lighting and sound when filming. This can be accomplished by selecting the optimum time of day to film and putting oneself in a location with the finest lighting and sound.
For example, if you’re filming a sunset, make sure the sun is in the frame and that your subject is nicely lighted. When it comes to audio, it’s critical to use a high-quality microphone and to record in an area with minimal background noise.
Another idea is to experiment with different angles and camera settings to achieve the greatest look for your movie by using reflectors, diffusers, or other tools to modify the lighting. When it comes to sound, it’s critical to test your microphone before recording and to pay attention to the audio levels during filming to ensure that the sound is recorded at the appropriate levels.
It’s also a good idea to think about audio and lighting at the planning stage, and to scout venues with good lighting and acoustics. And, if you’re working on a paid production, it’s critical to have open lines of communication with your client and director to ensure that the audio and lighting satisfy their standards.
Mistake #6: Not Getting Proper Permissions for Filming
Mistakes You Could Be Making as a Travel Videographer
Not obtaining correct authorization for filming is a severe mistake that can result in legal troubles and render your material worthless. Before filming can take place in many sites, such as private property, government facilities, and protected areas, special permissions must be obtained.
Furthermore, filming in public places may necessitate a permit, and failure to obtain one can result in fines, confiscation of equipment, and even arrest.
To prevent making this error, conduct research and secure all essential permissions before filming. This can be accomplished by contacting the proper authorities, such as the local film commission or the landowner, and informing them of your project and desired filming location.
It’s also a good idea to become acquainted with the laws and regulations of the location you’ll be filming in, as they can differ from one location to the next.
Another piece of advice is to plan ahead of time and provide enough time to secure the appropriate permits and permissions. This may take longer than expected, especially if you’re filming in a foreign nation, so keep this in mind when planning your schedule. It’s also critical to follow the rules and regulations of the location you’re filming in and to be willing to adjust your plans if required.
It’s also a good idea to keep a duplicate of your permits and licenses on hand while filming in case authorities ask for them. If you’re working on a paid project, ensure sure your client is aware of the need for permits and permissions, and that they’ve budgeted for the costs of acquiring them.
Mistake #7: You go completely hand-held
Mistakes You Could Be Making as a Travel Videographer
I’ll be the first to admit that a gimbal isn’t always necessary. It takes up space in your luggage, takes some time to stabilize, and can create quite a commotion at airport security (I speak from experience).
Nonetheless, if you want to sell your footage or make a high-quality film, you should consider using a stabilizer. The smooth-moving motion of the gimbal can make an average film look high-quality and polished, allowing you to sell your film for its true value.
The good news is that you don’t need a large gimbal for your mirrorless or DSLR camera. A GoPro or phone stabilizer can actually do the trick. For example, when I spent the day walking the streets of Paris, I brought my Sony A7III and A7sII cameras because I knew I wouldn’t have the time or energy to stabilize them on my Zhiyun Crane (it’s big, and I was planning on a lot of walking!).
Instead, I used my GoPro for smooth-moving tracking shots and my Sony Alphas for tighter shots in and around the streets of Paris, and the results were fantastic.
There are several reasons why completely hand-held vlogging can be a bad idea while travel vlogging:
- Shaky footage: Hand-held footage can often be shaky and difficult to watch, especially if you are walking or moving around while filming. This can make your video less enjoyable to watch and may turn viewers off.
- Lack of stability: Hand-held vlogging can also make it difficult to get stable, well-composed shots. This can make your video look amateurish and may not do justice to the beautiful locations you are visiting.
- Fatigue: Holding a camera for extended periods of time can be tiring and may affect the quality of your footage. You may end up with shaky, unsteady shots or may not be able to hold the camera steady for as long as you would like.
- Limited camera movement: When filming hand-held, you are limited in the types of camera movements you can achieve. This can make it difficult to add visual interest to your shots and may leave your video feeling static and uninteresting.
Overall, while hand-held vlogging can be a useful technique in certain situations, it’s generally a good idea to use some form of stabilization (such as a tripod or gimbal) when travel vlogging. This can help you get smoother, more stable footage and create a more professional-looking final product.
Mistake #8: Not Properly Backing Up Footage
Big Mistakes to Watch Out for as a Travel Videographer
Failure to adequately backup footage is a critical error that can result in the loss of valuable material as well as lost time and resources. There are numerous possible causes of film loss, including equipment failure, power failures, and even human mistake. There is no way to recover the film without sufficient backups, and you will have to start from scratch.
To avoid making this error, back up your footage as soon as possible after filming. This is accomplished by making numerous copies of the footage and storing them in other locations, such as external hard drives, cloud storage, or online backup services.
It is also critical to review and verify backups on a regular basis to ensure that they are performing properly and that the footage is intact.
Another recommendation is to employ a variety of storage media, such as hard drives or SSDs, to limit the chance of data loss due to media failure. To avoid damage, it’s also critical to clearly label your backups and store them in a safe and dry location.
It’s also a good idea to backup your footage as soon as possible after filming and to do so on a regular basis. Consider employing various backup options, such as local and cloud-based backups, to guarantee that your film is secured in the event that any one technique fails.
If you are working on a paid project, make sure to notify your customer about your backup methods and supply them with copies of the film as soon as feasible.
Eager To Learn More Travel Tips & Tricks? Check Out These Articles To Help You On Your Way To Success:
- 7+ Best Travel Vlogging Equipment For Travel Vloggers | Travel Vlog Essentials
- 6 Basic Vlogging Lighting Setups: Lighting Tips for Vlogging
- 5+ Best Ways to Spend Less on Travel For Your Next Vacation
- How to Film Yourself – 10+ Best Practical Vlogging Pro Tips
- How to travel on a budget: Our 10+ best tips
Mistake #9: Not Being Aware of the Weather Conditions and How it May Affect Your Filming
Big Mistakes to Watch Out for as a Travel Videographer
A typical mistake that can have a significant impact on the outcome of your travel videography is not being aware of the weather conditions and how they may affect your recording.
Weather factors such as rain, wind, and severe temperatures can make capturing excellent footage difficult, if not impossible, and can also harm your equipment. Unexpected weather conditions might also disrupt your production plan and make it difficult to obtain the video you require.
To prevent making this error, be mindful of the weather conditions and how they may impact your filming. This can be accomplished by checking the weather forecast before filming and planning your production schedule accordingly. It’s also crucial to be prepared for inclement weather by packing the necessary equipment, such as rain coverings, wind protection, and extra batteries.
Another key is to be adaptable and open to changing your ideas as needed. For example, if you’re intending to film a beach scene and the weather forecast predicts rain, you might want to consider shooting in a different area or at a different time.
Furthermore, it is critical to have a backup plan in case of inclement weather, such as indoor locations or alternative activities.
It’s also a good idea to become acquainted with the regular weather patterns of the place you’ll be filming in, as well as any potential threats, such as flash floods or thunderstorms. It’s also a good idea to pack appropriately, such as waterproof gear, warm clothing, and sunscreen, so you’re ready for any weather.
If you’re working on a paid project, keep your customer informed of any potential weather-related concerns and have a strategy in place in case of inclement weather.
Mistake #10: Not Editing and Post-Processing Your Footage Properly
Big Mistakes to Watch Out for as a Travel Videographer
Not properly editing and post-processing your footage is a typical mistake that can have a significant impact on the quality of your vacation cinematography.
Poor editing and post-production might result in a disconnected and uninteresting final product, making it impossible to communicate your intended message or story. Furthermore, failing to correctly color grade, stabilize, and add sound effects will significantly lower the overall quality and worth of your footage.
To prevent making this error, take the time to carefully edit and post-process your material. Create a rough cut of your film and then fine-tune it to create a cohesive and interesting final product. It’s also critical to focus on minutiae like color grading, sound design, and stabilizing unstable footage.
Another piece of advice is to experiment with various editing techniques and styles, such as transitions and other sorts of cuts, to produce a visually appealing and engaging end product. Additionally, professional software and equipment for post-processing and color grading are required to ensure that your footage is of the best quality.
Viewing your footage on numerous devices and platforms is also a smart practice to ensure that your final output appears good on different displays and resolutions.
Summary
We’ve highlighted ten major faults that travel videographers should avoid in order to enhance their craft in this blog post.
These mistakes include failing to have a clear concept or plan before filming, failing to properly research and scout locations, failing to have backup equipment or batteries, failing to capture enough B-roll footage, failing to pay attention to lighting and sound, failing to obtain proper permissions for filming, failing to properly back up footage, failing to be aware of weather conditions and how they may affect your filming, and failing to edit and post-process your footage properly.
Travel filmmakers can dramatically increase the quality of their footage and create more engaging and aesthetically fascinating videos by implementing these techniques.
It’s crucial to remember that producing high-quality trip videography takes organization, study, meticulous attention to detail, and a willingness to adapt to unanticipated circumstances. You may create movies that truly stand out and capture the essence of your trip adventures if you are prepared and aware of the potential hazards.
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About the author: Trent (IMDB | Youtube) has spent 10+ years working on an assortment of film and television projects. He writes about his experiences to help (and amuse) others. If he’s not working, he’s either traveling, reading or writing about travel/film, or planning travel/film projects.
