Multicamera Filming for Shows

MULTICAMERA

When we shoot live performance films, we can shoot either single camera or multi-camera. This page illustrates the difference between packages

1 Static Cameras | The Screentest, Pleasance Below

One Camera

Our simplest option is a one camera filming. This option involves a single camera with a wide angle lens, which captures all the action. The camera remains static and unchanged for the entire duration of the show.

One Camera is perfect for creating a record of a show. It’s also great for shows which happen on a small, intimate stage where the field of action is small. If the stage is large, then a single camera can make the performers feel small, as large areas of the stage will be “empty space” for the duration of the show.

1 Tracking Cameras, 1 Static Camera | Bea P. Deigh, TheSpace

Two Cameras

2 Cameras is our most popular package and our simplest multicamera package. It involves two cameras, set at different positions in the auditorium; a static wide camera, and another operated by a cameraperson, which is tighter and tracks the action. The two angles are then edited together to make the final archive film. Because the tracking camera is being operated live, the operator can make live changes to the exposure, focus and position.

A tracking camera means the video will be able to include a range of shots, including close ups. These closeups bring the viewer closer to the action, and better highlights the emotion of a performer. The dynamic nature of a tracking camera also makes the final film more engaging to a viewer, which is why we recommend multiple camera packages to anyone who wants a film to show to novel audiences. The closer, dynamic shots of a tracking camera also makes the footage perfect for trailers, promotions and social media content.

2 Tracking Cameras, 1 Static Camera | Zoe Brownstone, The Bill Murray

Three Cameras

Our three camera package has two tracking cameras, with two operators, and a static camera. This third camera adds extra depth and variety to any archive film. With three cameras, the film includes more angles, and a more rounded feel to a film. It also means that the film feels evenly shot. With only two cameras, we place the wide at the back, head-on to the stage, with the tracking in a different position, shooting at a slight angle to the stage. This means that the footage can feel “weighted” to one side of the room, but with a third camera you avoid this weighted feel, as all angles are covered.

The three camera package is especially suited to any film that is destined to be shown to audiences, where the film itself is a piece of entertainment in itself. Three cameras is also essential for shows performed in the round, or in thrust, to make sure no action is lost.

3 Tracking Cameras, 3 Static Cameras | Stamptown, Pleasance Theatre

More Cameras

For productions needing the highest level of cinematic experience, we can move from our standard one to three camera packages into as many cameras as you like. While our standard setup provides a beautifully rounded feel, moving beyond three cameras allows for a more immersive film that captures every angle of a performance. We have shot with up to 7 cameras before, and we're always keen to push further.

The addition of these extra cameras allows us to place units in unique, non-traditional positions. These extra cameras can provide angles such as shots from the back of the stage, audience reaction shots or even inside the tech booth or the orchestra pit.

This level of coverage is especially suited to films destined to be a piece of entertainment in their own right. With more than three angles it's the essential choice for complex staging. The resulting footage is exceptional for trailers and social media, as the sheer variety of motile, visually unique shots keeps the viewer fully engaged. By capturing the show from every possible vantage point, we ensure the final film works as hard as possible to impress new audiences and secure future development opportunities.

BLACKFISH

PRODUCTIONS

MULTICAMERA

One Camera

Two Cameras

Three Cameras

More Cameras