Video Motion Picture - Brief Article

PSA Journal, July, 2000 by Christine E. Haycock

The hot summer days are here. But it is not too hot to bring out your camcorder to record summer events. Starting with the Fourth of July there are often many Community events worthy of your attention. Street fairs, boat races, dog shows, fishing contests, soapbox derbies, etc.--all lend themselves to possible documentary videos.

Look in your local newspaper for a list of events and choose one that seems interesting. Do some research before you go if at all possible so that you can plan what you are going to record and from what location you will get the best opportunity to do so. If people are specifically involved, the chairmen of the event, the mayor of the town, etc., try to set up an interview with that person in advance so that you get an introduction and explanation of the event for your video. Especially in small towns this is usually relatively easy to arrange. This may then lead to your being given a choice spot to record from.

When did you last visit your local zoo or botanical garden? Don't go on a very hot day or the flowers may be wilted or the animals sleepy. Go early in the morning or find out when the animals are being fed at the zoo. Any time except noon time for the flowers probably will be OK.

So you see, there are many opportunities to make that award winning video! Bring it with you to the PSA Conference in Albuquerque and let us evaluate it. Join in with our workshops to improve your efforts. We look forward to seeing you!

Christine E. Haycock, FPSA, PPSA, Editor
361 Roseville Ave., Newark NJ 07107

chrish2@juno.com