Shooting a sequence is when you record a number of shots that relate to each other to tell a narrative or story.
Good video stories present those shots in a sequence that complements the parts and creates a finished package.
I have learnt that shooting and editing effective sequences are essential to my video storytelling. For example, shot sequences can enhance cohesion, help communicate more information in less time and create an overall sense of purpose.
Check out the video below to see how I used different sequences to tell a story using my Samsung phone.
A step-by-step guide to how I made and edited the video using my smartphone:
As soon as I identified a location with good lighting, I arranged to shoot at daylight. During shooting, I was able to achieve the following sequences: establisher to give orientation, wide shot to capture the character in full but not so much environment, mid shot (from the character’s waist up) for more focus while still showing some environment. Other sequences were close-up to capture the character’s mood and extreme close-up for greater details.
I recorded some action several times. This was to allow for continuity/flow at the editing stage. I also took cutaways to give more information about my work with the aim of making it interesting and dynamic.
Editing was done using the Kinemaster app. I took the following steps:
- Created a project and choose the 16:9 aspect ratio option
- Imported videos into the timeline according to the order I wanted the clips to appear in the final video. Import was done by clicking ‘’media’’
- Trimmed/split clips where necessary to adjust start and end positions while ensuring there’s continuity in the story I was trying to tell
- Repositioned videos where required
- Added b-rolls by clicking ‘’media’’ and selecting clips
- Added text by hitting the ‘‘layer’’ button
- Imported my background music by clicking ‘’audio’’
- Exported by clicking the button at the top right-hand corner of the app
- Ensured the default setting was unaltered and that the slider was at high quality.
Your smartphone can do much more than you think besides making calls, texting, taking photos or surfing the internet. The comments section is open for any question.
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