How to Film Cars Like a Pro
Greetings, fellow car enthusiasts! Here on my personal blog, I'm not just about capturing the beauty of cars on film; I'm also passionate about sharing my knowledge with fellow car filmmakers. The automotive industry offers a hot market for videography and photography, and gaining an edge over the competition is crucial for success in this field.
If you're eager to up your automotive videography game, check out my tutorial video series on my YouTube channel. And for those who prefer reading, I've got some valuable tips for you below. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights into taking your automotive videography to new heights.
Ditch the Gimbal Dependency
While smooth gimbal shots can add a cinematic touch to your car films, avoid overusing them. Incorporate handheld camera movements to introduce natural shakes, making your shots more dynamic. Don't underestimate the power of a tripod; static shots can be just as impactful, allowing your audience to appreciate the car's presence before engaging them with gimbal movements.
Capture the Roar: Record Car Audio
Bring your car films to life by capturing the sounds of the engine, turbo blow-off valve, and supercharger whine. Rig an external audio recorder such as a Zoom H4N Pro in the trunk for exterior audio, use it in the cup holder for interior sounds, and tape a lav mic to the side mirror to minimize wind noise for front-facing audio. Incorporating these authentic sounds during the shoot enhances your film's overall appeal during the editing process.
Mix Up Your Shot Types
Vary your focal lengths and shot types to keep your car cinematics engaging. Start with wide shots to establish location, then transition to medium or close-up shots for visual impact. Including drone shots can add an extra layer of dynamism, providing unique angles and captivating visuals. Remember, it's not just about the car; showcase the surroundings and the journey it takes.
Explore Every Angle
A car's beauty extends beyond its exterior; explore the interior and engine bay. Film unique details like emblems, brake calipers, exhaust tips, and don't shy away from asking owners to showcase the engine. By focusing on these intricate elements, you add depth and richness to your automotive filmmaking.
Plan Like a Pro
Thoroughly plan your shoots by scouting locations, creating mood boards, and developing storyboards. A mood board helps define the look and feel of your film, while storyboards provide a visual roadmap for your narrative. A well-organized shot list ensures you stay on track during production, helping you capture the shots needed for a compelling automotive film.
In conclusion, these five tips will undoubtedly elevate your automotive filmmaking. If you found these insights helpful, share them on social media, and feel free to reach out with any questions. Check out my Automotive Filmmaking Kit if you're interested in the gear I use.
Having a shot list will help you stay on track and not miss out on shots that are vital to telling the story of the video.
Want to improve your videos? Get 1-on-1 Coaching
Here's an exciting opportunity for you: I now offer 1-on-1 coaching sessions via Superpeer! Dive deeper into tips and tricks for automotive videography, receive business advice, and get critiques on your work. Sign up now to enhance your skills and take your automotive filmmaking to the next level. Happy filming!