VIDEO MADNESS

Video Madness has been a part of more than 2500 Bay Area Events. We are committed to preserving memories by marrying The Art of film and documentary with the Technology of cutting edge digital tools. Your special moments deserve to be filmed through the prism of Art & Emotion, not the sterile eye of techno-centered Videography. We also believe that our job is to capture your day, not create a spectacle with huge light trees, intrusive presence, or searchlights that blind your guests. We strive to become less visible so that you become more so. Arrange to see the difference.

What is "Cinematic", why all the fuss, what should I know?

Much like the advent of "photojournalism" in photography, the rage in hip videography terminology is "Cinematic". Just like photojournalism, there is no standard definition. It is a bit more of a marketing term than an artistic one. However, it usually contains some or all of the following:

- Narrative Storytelling. Using audio bits from throughout the event to help tell the story through words, images, and emotions. This can be as simple as floating the vows over highlights, or weaving complex audio throughout the production.

- Limited Slow Motion & Effects. Typically more modern short film narratives use little or no slow motion. There is, however, often a great deal of time spent on color grading. This is the alteration of the basic look of the film. It can be very compelling.

- 24p. 24 frames per second, progressive, is the speed of Hollywood Films. It has been forever. So shooting in this frame rate is often the choice for those trying to mimic the film look. There is much debate as to whether 24p is very different from 30p or whether frame rate in the modern era matters at all. Regardless, there is a look to the footage that is distinctive to many.

- HD-DSLR Video. While Narrative Storytelling, Color Grading, More Cut Shots, & sparse use of Slow Motion are part of the artistic pallette, perhaps the most effective method to achieve a more film like experience is the use of HD-DSLR Video cameras. HD-DSLR Video is video footage shot with high end photo cameras. They have a look that is much more film like than HD Camcorders. The Canon 5D Mark II is the current full frame leader. Shooting with these cameras in mission critical situations is ably handled by a select few. 

- Sliders, Gliders, & Cranes Oh My! Other tools can also add a cinematic flair to the finished product. A Slider is a set of rails, some very small, some large, that the camera can glide on giving a sense of motion that can be quite effective. A Glider, Glidecam, Steadicam, etc, is a rig designed to allow one to kind of gyroscopically mount the camera for free-floating footage. Can be very dramatic if you don't mind the gear. Cranes are rarely used at weddings but can be used in some events or traditions. Essentially the camera sits atop a large pole or tripod and can be see-sawed up & down. All cinematic tools should be contemplated and decided upon prior to the event.

There are also other significant considerations.

- The Long & the Short of It. Many "newbies" are talented professionals. This section is not about them. Without a lot of explanation suffice it to say that creating an effective documentary, up to two hours in length, is a dramatically different challenge than creating a 7 minute short film. What this means, in other words, is that one might create a 7-minute film that is effective with or without the quality sound, continuity, and composition to create the whole story. We beliwve true professionals accomplish both.

- Can You Hear Me Now? Quality audio is a major separator between good and great videographers. Getting enough sound for a short film is not the same as for the entire event. Be aware.

Contact us today to view samples and discuss the individual desires for your permanent memories.