Dancers and choreographers have the rare artistic ability to create beautiful and inspiring pieces of art. We all want to showcase our passion and hardwork in the best way possible. However, translating your work from in-person to on-film can be difficult and time consuming to get it just right. At SALT, we want to encourage the sharing of art within the world. Especially now, when spreading light and dance is an important part of our community. Below are some tips and tricks for filming choreography:

Finding the Right Space

When finding the right space to dance in, make sure there is enough space for the dancers to fulfill the choreography given. The videographer should also have space to film straight on and get every dancer in the shot. If you are unable to find studio space at the moment, think about the free spaces you can still use. Such as, going outside to the park, parking lot or even using your own backyard.

Film Horizontally

Filming horizontally will allow for more dancers to be in the shot. As well as, this makes it easier for the upload and edit process, if needed.

Finding the Right Lighting

The more lighting, the better. To ensure that all dancers are well lit, the dancers should face the light source. Consider how daylight or indoor fluorescent light affects the dancers’ lines and mood of the dance.

Stabilize your Filming Device

Whether you have a professional camera or just a smartphone, having a clean and stable video will set your video apart from the rest. No one enjoys watching a shaky or clumsy filmed video. Try using a tripod or resting the camera on a piece of furniture to hold the camera more steady. 

Sound Volume and Background Noise

If there is sound, make sure it is close to the camera for the audio to pick up on it clearly. If you can edit your sound in afterwards, that would guarantee no background noise and the music will be clear and loud.

Know the Edges of Your Frame

This one is kind of tricky. You should fill the frame as much as possible with the movement without cutting off the whole body. You don’t want to cut out the dancers’ limbs and not have too much empty space. Try setting boundaries or spike marks on the floor for the dancers to know where the end of the frame is. 

We know filming can be a tricky process. So we hope these tips and tricks will be helpful for your next video project. Continue to share your art and inspire others to do so in the future. We look forward to watching all of the works to be adjudicated for our SHAPE Choreography Festival this December!