Unit 22: Single Camera Techniques: LO1: Task Two

Task Two: Discussion and Report Task

Define the single camera format and the multiple camera formats

Single camera format

Single camera format is when one camera is being used for the whole production. A single camera is mainly used for dramas, documentaries and comedies, as the director would be able to have more control over each shot as they would be able to view each shot and spot the mistakes. All shots and angles are taken by one camera. Shots 1, 3, 5, and 7 would be shot towards one actor and shots 2, 4, 6, and 8 would be shot towards another actor, this is shooting out of sequence. The shots would be then edited to become a full scene. The director is able to switch between subjects. The director is also able to order the production team to take longer takes, to stop the camera and to film from a new angle if he/she hasn’t got the shots needed. Audio from the master shot is used throughout the film.

Multiple camera formats

Multiple camera formats is when more than one camera is used for a production. Usually as many as five cameras are used. Multiple cameras are used usually to cover live events such as sports events, talk shows and reality TV shows, this is because the director is able to choose which shot has the best angles and footage. Multiple cameras allow you to get maximum coverage possible. The cameras are used simultaneously to catch the same shot. Each camera is used to show a different perspective. The director would shout out the camera number so that the people filming will know when it’s their turn to film footage. The cameras are filming continuously. When editing multiple camera productions, the best shots are selected and are put together to make the film. When filming a live event the cameras are connected to a video mixer where they are then edited and mixed to a single tape. They are broadcasted through cables or airwaves. The director switches cameras in the mixing room. The footage is sometimes shown live or is sometimes edited as if to appear live.

What are the advantages of the single camera format?

Single camera productions are very easy to produce as all shots are filmed by one camera. Directors choose to film programmes with a single camera as it appears more real and relatable to the audience this is because there are a big range of camera angles and movements that can be used to present different meanings. Close up shots can be used to show emotion and handheld camera movements can be used to show action. Single camera films are cheaper to produce as actors and extras can come on another day. Body doubles or look alike can also be used for some scenes and stunts. Single camera formats also allow special effects to be used with fewer complications. Single camera formats are more convenient as you could film scenes in different locations very easily.

What are the advantages of the multiple camera format?

The multiple camera format is used for filming live events such talk shows, football games, soaps and live events. Multiple cameras allow you to get full coverage of event. It is easy to get perfect lighting with the multiple camera format, whereas, with the single camera format it would prove to be difficult as white balance would be needed continuously. It also less time consuming as the director rarely has to re-shoot scenes. It can also be cheap as fewer hours are required for the crew to be there. Editing would be quick, as majority of the scenes would be filmed in sequence. Multiple camera format allows fast pace editing as there is a range of different shots on all the cameras and they are filmed in sequence. Whereas, single camera format is filmed with only one camera and the director has to view all the footage and pick the best shots. The editor and director then put the footage together, this process is time consuming and lengthy compared to the multiple camera format.

Examples of two formats in action

Single camera format

Drama: Waterloo Road