Shooting video, like all other skills, is difficult at first, then easy and later, somehow, becomes hard again.

When a novice first walks through the front door of Community TV looking to learn how to use a camera, we teach them the functionality of a miniDV camcorder. Understanding completely new equipment and new skills that members didn't know they had often comes with a steep learning curve. Life is difficult.

After crewing on a few half-hour studio shoots, or volunteering on some field productions, we become complacent. We understand how to record, how to capture audio, how to piece together a montage. Life is easier.
Then comes the difficult part. The next step is perfecting our art, when and if it becomes art. Life, as we all know, is hard- again.
Here are some quick tips for shooting better video:

• Shoot to Edit - Shoot your opening first, then your interviews, then your b-roll (overlaying video). Try and record in the order that you will need content while editing. Only record what you will use. Stop recording when setting up a shot.? Use an External Mic - On-camera microphones should only be used for ambient "nat" sound. For interviews, checkout a lavaliere or stick mic from the station. People might watch bad video, but they change the channel on bad audio.

• Use a Tripod - Using a tripod for each shot will force you to think about your framing and will eliminate shaky video.

• Shoot Static Shots - For your next project try to not use any tilts or pans. Don't worry; some will sneak their way in. This is a tool that's usually overused and slows down the pace of your project.

• Consider Lighting - Take out a lighting kit, or make your own for under $100 at the hardware store. You can also try and use the sun, or other directional lights, to achieve a lighting scheme. Look for how-to's at libraries, bookstores or the station.

• Consider Composition - Use the "rule of thirds," shoot off-center, tell a story through pictures. Focus on people's faces, rather than their backs; in fact, use more people. Be aware of your framing by trying to mix in plenty of tight shots and some wide-angles. Medium framed shots will always sneak their way into your project, so don't worry about them.

• Watch TV - See what you like, and what you don't like, on 25/71, 26/72 and 27/73. Watch your favorite movie with the sound off and study how the director tells his or her story visually. Look up photographers like Ansel Adams and Henri Cartier-Breson.

Simply by thinking more about how you shoot, your product will improve and more people will watch your show. From the checkout room, happy shooting.