Single camera is when a production is filmed using just one camera; every shot and every angle is used with the same camera. This technique is often used for music videos, low-budget films and documentaries. There are two different methods of using single camera. The first one is one single long take, this is when you film something all in one take instead of different shots. The second one is different takes of different shots; this is similar to multi-camera where you take different shots and edit them after. The technique which is chosen to be used all depends on the best fit for what is being filmed.
The single camera technique; one long take is often used in music videos. A band called ‘OK GO’ use this technique in the majority of their videos which is alternative compared to most music videos, this makes them stand out. The band also belong to the indie genre which are usually independent producers therefore tend to have less money. A song called ‘Here It Goes Again’ is very famous by the band particularly for the video that goes with it. It is very unique and took many hours to film due to it being so complicated to film in only one shot; this meant that they had to get everything exactly how they wanted it. The video features the four artists dancing on a tredmill using very complicated steps.
The single camera technique comes with advantages and disadvantages. It is a good technique to use as it is low-budget and doesn’t require much editing. Also as a replacement of editing, it is a great opportunity to experiment with using different camera shots and zooms. This can make the video appealing and eye-catching to those viewing and also fits in with the indie genre.
There are disadvantages to using this technique for example there is a lot more planning needed to create this video, also if something goes it wrong it will need to be reshot. As mentioned above, the videos are also very time consuming. It could take many hours of planning and filming in order to get the video the way you want it to be.
The second single camera technique, which is similar to multi-camera is often use in news inserts. For example in an interview, over the shoulder shots are used a lot so there isn’t a camera present in the background. There are many styles different styles used in the video ‘This Too Shall Pass’. One example is tracking where the camera follows the movement around the room. The lighting is minimal in the room however there is lighting shown on the different objects featured.
A positive example of using this technique is that it is easier to film. This is due to the different shots being taken and being able to edit together to create a final piece. This is a lot more simple than the first technique as if something does go wrong, you do not have to re-film it all again.
Alongside the positives, there are also negative aspects of this technique. It is very time consuming as it it longer to film than multi camera as shots have to be edited together in different ways using effects such as transitions to make it look visually appealing to viewers. It is a much longer editing process than the first single camera technique but is however quicker than editing multi camera.