the Reel Deal: A Humorous Guide to Video Production Terms
Don't be intimidated by video production jargon; we're here to demystify the cryptic language of the industry and sprinkle a dash of Territory humour to make it as clear as the Northern Territory skies. Whether you're planning campaigns or looking to work in the motion media industry, this guide will have you talking the talk in no time.
1. Action! 🎬
You might think this means everyone starts doing jazz hands, but no. It's the director's magical word that makes everything come to life on set. Action means the cameras roll, the actors strut their stuff, the client turns off their phone, and the crew hopes no one trips over cables!
2. B-Roll – Not a Rock Band 🎸
Despite its lack of musical inclination, B-Roll is the superstar of supplementary footage. Think of it as the supporting actor to your main content's lead role. It's those beautiful shots of the landscape or a satisfied customer sipping a latte. No musicians involved, just cinematic background goodness.
3. Jump Cut – Not a Dance Move 💃
A jump cut is like teleporting. It's when a scene seems to hop, skip, and jump abruptly, creating a funky, fast-forward feel. Just remember, this term might make you giggle, but your video will be all business.
4. White Balance – Not Yoga 🧘♀️
White balance is not about mastering the art of tranquillity; it's about getting colours right. Cameras can sometimes mess up the hues, making your sunny day look like a snowstorm. Adjust the white balance, and your videos will be as vibrant as an outback sunset.
5. Foley – Not a Pet Name 🐶
No, it's not your friend's quirky dog. Foley is all about adding sounds that weren't captured during filming. From footsteps to door creaks, these unsung heroes make your video sound as natural as a dingo's howl.
6. Call Sheet – Not a Restaurant Menu 📋
If you're hoping for a delicious dinner, you might be disappointed. A call sheet is a behind-the-scenes itinerary for the day's shoot. It tells everyone where to be, what scenes are up next, and when lunch happens. Because let's face it, a hungry crew isn't a happy crew!
7. Montage – Not a Fancy Cheese Platter 🧀
Sadly, no cheese is involved, but montages are a delight nonetheless. It's that speedy sequence showing the passage of time or the evolution of a project. Think of it as a visual summary, but without the need for popcorn.
8. Jib – Not a Dance Party 💃
Despite the name, it's not where you show off your dance moves. A jib is a fancy arm-like contraption that swoops and glides to give your video that sweeping, cinematic feel. It's like the crane shot's cool cousin.
9. Block – Not a City District 🏢
When they ask you to "block" a scene, they're not talking about urban planning. It's all about figuring out where the actors move, where the cameras go, and making sure nobody bumps into the furniture. Think of it as choreographing a dance but with fewer tutus.
10. Cutaway – Not an Escape Route 🏃♂️
Don't worry, nobody is running away. A cutaway is a shot that's not part of the main action. It's used to show something related but not immediately on camera. It's like when you're telling a story and suddenly remember that hilarious side anecdote.
11. Pull Focus – Not a reading glasses 🤓
This term involves shifting the focus from one object to another in a shot. Imagine you're filming a kangaroo hopping in the background, but suddenly you want the focus to switch to the adorable joey in the pouch. That's a "pull focus" moment. It's like giving your video a pair of cinematic reading glasses.
There you have it, folks, a lighthearted and informative journey through the wild world of video production terms. Video production might have a serious side, but there's always room for a hearty laugh amidst the creative hustle.
