How to Shoot Quality Video of Family Holidays

Family gatherings for holidays are some of the best uses for home video cameras. The time families spend together celebrating a festive occasion can be preserved and reviewed for years to come. Video is a time capsule that records children as they grow up and relationships as they blossom.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Video Camera
• Tripod

1. Prepare your equipment before relatives arrive. The night before the holiday, charge all your video camera batteries and make sure you have plenty of blank tapes available. There is nothing worse than running out of tape in the middle of the fun. It is a good idea to start a new tape for each holiday so you can file them separately. You may want to get a tripod to make steady shots easier. Keep your charger on hand in case you need to reinvigorate your batteries.

2. Designate a family photographer. This can be you or someone else who is proficient with a video camera. Don't pick someone at random. Your crazy cousin might be willing but he could be a terrible photographer. If necessary have several designated photographers. This way the camera can be handed off and more of the event can be shot. Don't worry about using a lot of tapes. They can always be edited down later.

3. Get video of your guests as they arrive. The meet and greet is often entertaining and warm. Have the camera rolling as people come to the door. If you are the one arriving, have the camera rolling as the door is answered.

4. Family is all about relationships. Some people get along while others enjoy their differences. The key to family video is to witness these humorous interactions. If people are arguing or wrestling or jostling in the kitchen, capture that on camera. Children love video. Ask them to perform or imitate other relatives. You will captures some great memories that everyone will enjoy watching later.

5. Vary your video shots. To make your tape visually interesting, mix up wide shots, medium shots and close ups. For example, shoot the entire room full of people, then get tight on the turkey waiting to be eaten, then get a medium shot at your nephew sneaking a bite. Avoid zooming, panning and tilting the camera. Use a tripod if you can. Steady shots are more interesting and professional.

6. Keep the camera rolling during big events. If someone is opening presents or blowing out candles, let the camera record throughout the process. Even if you shift positions the camera should roll. This way there is a reduced risk of missing something spontaneous. You can always edit and reuse tape. You can't rewind time and capture a lost moment again.

7. Interview your guests. Since family holiday video is a time capsule, it is a great opportunity to immortalize relatives on tape. Ask Grandma about her childhood memories or your parents about their wedding. Ask children what they want to be when they grow up or what they think is the most important thing in the world. Years later you will cherish what you captured on video.