Keeping focus while shooting videos with DSLR
How to keep everything in focus on DSLR video, keeping the subject in focus is an ultimate challenge while shooting videos, this becomes easy in photography as the subject is mostly in a constant distance. This completely changes when it comes to video shooting, it's a different game. Many have asked me do you use manual focus for video?
DSLR video focus tracking can be achieved either m manual focus or by autofocus. A new video camera focus technique has come into the market called the 'Remote focus puller', a focus puller helps you by focusing your camera through a wireless controller. Best focus mode for video is neither manual focus nor autofocus, both works in different situations and also based on the abilities of your camera.
Many have asked me how to keep the focus on a moving subject in focus, I have tried a few methods and those have worked successfully for me.
I have shared my experience and all methods I follow when I do a video shoot.
1.Wide angel Lens
2. Constant Distance
For moving subjects always keep a constant distance between the camera and the subject, of course, you have a little freedom based on the aperture, use higher aperture more range of focus will help you keep the subject in focus.
3. Autofocus
4. Remote Focus Puller
Having a Focus puller is a good idea if you have the budget. A focus puller will help to do the focusing from a remote monitor or a tablet, you can have the Focus puller remotely operating the focus so the camera can move freely and also capture the subject in their quiet Focus. We get remote focus puller kit available like the Zhiyun focussing kit, comes as an addition to their awesome gimbals.
5. Fixing a Meeting point for Focus
6. Back-up plan
7. Multiple takes
8. Shoot the rehearsal
The above video is completely shot with manual focus in a DSLR camera, I have managed to keep everything in focus. Keep practising and you will understand the techniques better.
Thank you for reading all my experience, if you have better ideas please do write them in the comments so I could learn from you as everybody who reads this blog.
