How to add motion footage to your Stock Photo Shoots.
Motion Footage Is In Demand
Why shoot motion for Stock? The primary reason, from a
business perspective, is that motion is a growing and lucrative segment of the
stock photography market. The use of motion is exploding. We see it
everywhere, from the gasoline pump to billboards to pervasive use on the
Internet. Every major, and quite a few minor, stock agencies are now offering
footage. In a recent survey of stock photographers who participate in both
motion and still photography, all but one respondent indicated that stills sales
were dropping while motion sales were on the rise. In my own experience five
out of my top twenty selling stock images over the first quarter of this year
were film clips!
More Video Cameras, More Distribution
Getting in to motion has never been easier. Canon, Nikon
and other camera manufactures now offer 35mm cameras in the mid-price range that
shoot High Definition Video. Additionally, an entirely new camera is available
called The Red One that shoots video with feature film quality and from which
individual frames can be pulled for still images. That Micro Stock agencies now
offer video means that getting distribution has become much easier as well.
Hiring A Director Of Photography
For the still shooter who wants to get into motion there
are two distinctly different avenues. You can hire a DP (Director of
Photography) who will usually furnish the camera and supply all of the knowledge
needed, leaving you free to use your creativity as you take on the role of
Director. If you want to go the extra mile you can hire a production team that
will take care of all of the lighting and grip needs for you as well.
I personally know of two still photographers who have
forged partnerships with production companies and split the proceeds of their
motion stock shoots.
Shooting With Still Cameras
For those wanting to dip their toes into the water a little
more slowly you can pick up a HD Video still camera, such as a Canon 5D MK II
for less than $3,000.00, and shoot both motion and stills. Of course, you can
always rent a wide range of video cameras. You will definitely want a camera
that will shoot HD, and that can shoot digital files to a card or hard drive.
Spreading the Risk
A great way to work is to set up a still shoot that also
can offer motion possibilities. In doing so you can spread any risk across both
mediums. Keep in mind that motion does present some challenges that stills do
not. You can’t fix things in Photoshop. Everything has to be perfect. Shoots go
a lot slower for video as well, so you have to allow more time. And finally, if
you are used to shooting with artificial light such as strobes, you will need to
arrange for “hot lights” for your motion work.
Editing To Clips
Once your video is shot you will need to edit it into
clips. The premier application for video editing is Final Cut Pro. The
learning curve is a bit daunting, but luckily editing video into clips is a
fairly simple process. If you need it, great place to learn how to use software
is
www.lynda.com. If you are serious about video you might consider getting
the best equipment and software upfront and learning it well. In the long run
the payoff will be well worth it.
A Plus For Your Career
Combining video shoots with your still shoots is a great
way to move into the future of stock photography. While still images will
always be needed, motion use is on the increase, there is inherently less
competition, and there is a huge need for material. You never know, you might
find that motion is something you really take to and that might be a real plus
for your career. Worst case, you will find that motion isn’t for you and you can
move on and refocus on stills. Either way you will be that much more
knowledgeable and on top of your chosen profession.
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