DigPhotog: Video Composition: From the Basics to the Advanced (W4-P2) [VID] Sp16

Let's continue our discussion about composition in moving photography.

First, note the techniques of getting a good hand-held video shot as laid out in the video below.  The video below is about using a professional video camera, but the same techniques apply to you using your smart phone or tablet camera.



And now, on to some more advanced aspects of video composition.
Q: What is the rule of composition that cant' be used well in still photography
A: Movement

For some keen lessons on composing with movement let's go to the master, Akira Kurosawa, famed Japanese film director.  Note the specific rules of movement discussed.




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DigPhotog: Can't Leave Composition Behind: How to Use in Video (W4-P1) [VID] Sp16

We've previously talked about photo criticism and photo composition, the artistic aspects of photography.  We'll very soon move into the technical aspects of photography.  However, before we take a look at the tech, let's take one last look at composition.  This time will not look at it in still photography, but moving photography.

The "rules" of composition that you learn for still photography can also be used in your video work.

Note that when shooting video on your smart phone or tablet, the rules of composition still apply. And now that you are adding more time and movement to the shooting of a subject, you can do some interesting things with the still photography rules of composition.

Note the four rules of composition that can be used in video work which are discussed below.





After you learned about composition in still photography (rule of thirds, framing, etc.), did you start to spot those same rules being used in your favorite TV show or movie?  If not, look for it the next time you are watching TV or a movie.

Take, for example, the Tarantino film, Kill Bill.


Just focus on the rule of thirds.  How often do you see the rule of thirds?  How is it used?




Now, you try it.  Go to YouTube (or another video source) and look for clips of a favorite movie.  See how many rules of composition you see being used.  Besides the rule of thirds, what else do you see?  Framing?



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More Secrets of Academic Success: Mnemonics and How to Use Them

Earlier I shared a variety of secrets to academic success (methods of studying, etc.) and I suggested learning tools like Quizlet.

Below is a continuation of that same conversation.

A mnemonic is "any learning technique that aids in information retention" (Wikipedia).
Mnemonic is pronounced like 'knee-monic' (think: a demon with really big knee caps).

There are several mnemonics or memory tricks that can help when learning new material.  The first video below defines and explains six tricks (acronyms, acrostics, the PEG system, image mnemonics, chunking and memory maps).



So, according to the video:

• acronyms: "word or term is created from the first letter of each item to be remembered.
• acrostics: "a complete sentence or series of words in which the first letter of each word stands for something to be remembered."
• PEG system: "is useful for remembering numbers - uses key words which are represented by numbers."
• image mnemonics: "the information to be recalled is constructed in the form of a picture that enhances memory."
• chunking: "involves grouping individual pieces of information together in a way that makes them easier to remember."
• mind map: "a visual pattern that can create a framework for improved recall."

Now, the last video covers the memory palace technique (my favorite).



How could you use the above memory tricks to learn course material or anything else you need to learn?

Study smarter, not harder.

If you are curious, you can find more information about mnemonics on YouTube and Google.

I'd especially suggest these two YouTube videos:

• Memory Champion Teaches You How to Memorize Anything
• How To Study Better - Best Study Techniques

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