Understanding the technical jargon used in the video services industry can occasionally feel like cracking a hidden code, whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned professional. However, do not worry! In this post, we’ll demystify a few of the essential technical phrases used in video creation to understand, giving you the tools you need to explore this creative space confidently. Therefore, we’ve got you covered whether you’re seeking video services, want to learn more about video production techniques, or create your own corporate videos, brand films, or digital ads!
Must know technical terms:-
Aspect Ratio: Aspect ratio refers to the proportion of a video frame’s width to its height. It determines the shape and size of the video, such as the standard 4:3, widescreen 16:9, square 1:1, or vertical 9:16 format.
Codec: A codec is a piece of software or an algorithm that compresses and decompresses audio and video data. Consider it a digital translator that optimizes file sizes for storage and transmission. H.264, H.265 and ProRes are a few common codecs.
Frame Rate: Frame rate denotes the number of frames displayed per second in a video. It determines the smoothness and realism of the visuals. Common frame rates include 24fps, 25fps, 30fps, 60fps, and 100fps.
Resolution: Resolution refers to the number of pixels that make up a video frame. It influences the clarity and sharpness of the visuals. Common resolutions include 720p, 1080p (Full HD), and 4K (Ultra HD).
White Balance: White balancing is the technique of altering a movie’s colours to ensure that white objects show up as true white under various lighting situations. It ensures precise colour representation.
Chroma Key: Chroma key is a technique that combines two video layers by swapping out a certain colour from the top layer with the bottom layer, usually blue or green. It makes it possible for actors or objects to blend in with various backdrops or environments.
Colour Grading: In colour grading, colours are changed in a video to produce a particular visual aesthetic or emotional tone. Fine-tuning contrast, saturation, and colours improves the overall appearance and gives the film its own artistic appeal.
Script: A script is a written document that outlines a video’s dialogue, action, and structure. It serves as a blueprint, guiding the production team in bringing the story to life on screen.
Storyboard: A storyboard depicts the script in images, frequently in the form of sketches or pictures. It offers a clear road map for the production process and aids in planning and visualizing how the video will be recorded and produced.
Shot List: A shot list is a document detailing the specific shots to be captured during filming. It includes shot types, angles, and movements, aiding in efficient planning and execution on set.
Location Recce: Location Recce involves finding and evaluating potential filming locations. It includes assessing factors like lighting, accessibility, and permissions and making necessary arrangements or modifications.
Casting: Casting involves selecting actors or talent for video production. It includes auditioning performers and making final decisions based on their skills, appearance, and availability.
Production Schedule: A production schedule outlines the timeline for the entire production process, including pre-production, filming, and post-production.
Budget: A budget is a financial plan outlining projected equipment, talent, and other production expenses.
Equipment List: An equipment list details the specific equipment needed for the production, such as cameras, lighting, and sound equipment.
Call Sheet: A call sheet is a document distributed to the cast and crew before filming. It provides the schedule for the day, including call times, locations, and specific instructions.
Pre-Production Meeting: A pre-production meeting is held before filming begins, bringing together the production team to discuss plans, including the script, storyboard, and schedule.
Visual Breakdown: Documents or images that list the visible components of a film or video production make up a visual breakdown. Sketches for the storyboard, camera positions, ideas for the sets, clothing, and character designs are all included.
Shot Breakdown: A shot breakdown is a list or document that describes how each shot in a movie or video was made. Shot number, type, size, angle, movement, lens, lighting, special effects, and contextual annotations are all included.
Camera Angles: Camera angles refer to the position of the camera in relation to the subject. Common angles include high-angle, low-angle, and eye-level shots.
Camera Movement: Camera movement refers to how the camera is physically moved during filming. Everyday activities include panning, tilting, dollying, and using crane shots.
Lighting: Lighting involves using artificial or natural light to illuminate the subject and create a specific mood or atmosphere.
Sound Recording: Sound recording is the process of capturing audio during filming. It includes using a microphone to record dialogue, sound effects, and music.
Continuity: Continuity refers to maintaining consistency in visual and audio elements within a video. It ensures that lighting, sound, and camera angles remain consistent across different shots.
Boom Mic: A boom mic is a long pole with a microphone attached to the end. It is held by a boom operator and positioned close to actors during filming to capture clear dialogue.
Gaffer: A gaffer is a production crew member responsible for lighting on set.
Director of Photography (DP): The Director of Photography is responsible for the video’s overall visual look and feel. They handle lighting, camera movement, and framing decisions.
Production Assistant (PA): A production assistant supports the day-to-day operations of a film or video shoot. They assist with equipment, set organization, and other tasks.
Drone Cinematographer: A crewless aerial vehicle (drone) is flown by a drone cinematographer to record aerial images for movies or television shows. They offer distinctive vantage points and expansive views.
Gimbal: A gimbal is a device used to stabilize a camera, isolating it from external movements. It ensures smooth and steady shots without additional equipment.
Director: The director is responsible for the overall creative vision of a film or video production. They interpret the script, cast actors, work with the cinematographer, direct actors, and make final creative decisions.
AD (Assistant Director): An assistant director assists the director with day-to-day tasks like scheduling, coordinating cast and crew moves, and ensuring the project stays within its allocated spending limit and time frame.
Colour Correction: Color correction involves adjusting the colour balance and overall footage look to achieve a desired visual style.
Sound Design: Sound design involves creating, selecting, and manipulating audio elements to enhance the film’s overall sound.
Sound Mixing: Sound mixing involves combining and balancing various audio elements, such as dialogue, music, and sound effects, to create a cohesive audio track.
Visual Effects: Visual effects include computer-generated imagery (CGI) and digital techniques to create special effects, such as explosions or realistic visuals.
Motion Graphics: Motion graphics use animation and graphic design techniques to create dynamic visual elements, like title sequences and animated transitions.
Titling: Titling refers to creating and adding titles, subtitles, and captions to the video.
Grading: Grading involves adjusting the colour and tonal values of the video to achieve the desired look and feel.
Rendering: Rendering is the process of compressing and converting video files into a suitable format for delivery.
Voice-Over Recording: The process of collecting audio narration or speech for a movie, video, or audio-visual production is known as voice-over recording. In a recording studio, the screenplay is read aloud by a voice actor or narrator.
Davinci Resolve: Davinci Resolve is video editing software commonly used in the industry.
Adobe After Effects: Adobe After Effects is software used for creating motion graphics and visual effects.
We hope this blog has served as a helpful resource in your journey to understand the intricacies of this fascinating field better. Having a firm understanding of these concepts will surely improve your video production experience, regardless of whether you’re looking for video services, wanting to produce interesting corporate videos, explainer videos, or brand films, or attempting to produce persuasive digital ads.
Keep in mind that the field of video production is continually changing, and new terminologies and techniques are frequently developed. So, to stay on top of the game, maintain your curiosity, keep learning, and keep up with current events. With the correct information and a little imagination, you can use video to make your ideas come to life. Grab that camera, and let your imagination soar as you embark on your next video production adventure!
Conclusion:-
We at Surge Productions help you elevate your brand’s story. Creating stunning videos that inspire action. We are a Video Production Company in Bangalore, dedicated to building a story brand that elevates your business and inspires action. We partner with corporates and startups for all things video! We are a team of dreamers, storytellers, and creators, who are passionate about using the power of video to bring brands to life.