Video marketing and production have their dialect. While specific phrases are simple to understand, others could leave you perplexed. Having a fundamental understanding of any terminology you come across while working on your next video production is beneficial. We’re adding another ten terms to our list of “10 Need-to-Know Production Terms” in this blog post. Expand your video vocabulary by reading on!
4K
The term “4K,” commonly referred to as “Ultra High-Definition (UHD),” describes an image with a resolution of (nearly) 4,000 pixels or 3840×2160. Most web videos will use Full HD, 1920×1080, as a point of comparison. However, depending on where the video will be seen, there are some situations where you would wish to either shoot in a higher resolution or export a file in a higher resolution. 1920×1080 is usually sufficient for video marketing needs. However, 4K is a possibility to be aware of.
Audio Blend
Typically, the final stages of post-production include audio mixing. To offer the optimum listening experience, all audio levels, including voices, music, sound effects, etc., are balanced at the appropriate levels during this procedure. These noises shouldn’t clash; instead, they should enhance one another.
B-Cam
There are an A-camera and a B-camera, or B-Cam, for those shoots that feature a two-camera configuration. In addition to the primary A-Cam, this second angle is employed to provide an additional perspective for the edit. The editor can switch between the camera angles. This frequently happens in interviews.
Call List
Almost often, a call sheet is distributed in advance of a performance. The actors, crew, and client may find all the necessary logistical details in this paper. Contact information, general project information, loading instructions, timetable, call and wrap hours, etc., will all be included on the call sheet.
Gaffer
A crew member in charge of lighting is known as a gaffer. This person closely collaborates with the DP (Director of Photography) to set up lights and create a specific lighting “look.” Depending on the crew size, this might be a particular position or an additional duty performed by another crew member.
Reduced Thirds
Motion graphics, known as lower thirds, are displayed in a video during an interview clip to show the speaker’s name and a brief bio (often their job). The figure will briefly appear on the screen before this graphic emerges.
On-location
Any product not carried out on a studio or sound stage is called on-location. These are the locations where the production will take place, such as an office, building, home, park, etc. Due to the nature of the site, on-location shoots often require more excellent logistical preparation. Studio shots occur in a more regulated, central setting.
Poor Cut
A rough cut is made once filming is over and the footage enters post-production. This is the first cut-together version of the video. It will be organized as decided upon during pre-production, but it might still have some rough edges. Until the content cut is approved, elements like color and audio will only be roughed in. The rough cut serves as a starting point for modifications and gives everyone an idea of how the final product will look.
Thumbnail
A thumbnail is a picture that serves as a preview of the video’s appearance before it starts. You can choose which image from the film should be used as the thumbnail on websites that host videos, such as Vimeo. This still image serves as a preview of the video’s appearance before you start playing it. You should frequently use an alluring and instructive idea about what the viewer might expect in the film.
Voiceover
The commentary in a video not shown on camera is called a voiceover. Usually, the audio is recorded in a studio by a professional voiceover actor who has been engaged. Real-time feedback on delivery, tone, etc., is possible during directed sessions with voiceover artists. The narration must blend in with the overall “feel” of the video.
