All things remote filming (lockdown and beyond!)

What is remote filming?

Lockdown has thrown up a whole bunch of problems for many companies but, for production companies, live-action filming has become tricky. How do you film when you can’t film? The simplest option is remote filming. Many people are using Zoom and other video platforms to record interviews on their webcams. The main problem with these is that you are usually recording the video in the cloud, meaning not only a reduction in quality but, being at the mercy of your broadband speed. This can lead to drop-outs in the sound and glitches in the video. Not great for a video that you want to represent your company. The other option is to use a mobile phone. This is great for informal videos, but what about if you want something more polished?

What’s the alternative for remote filming?

At DreamingFish, we use a platform called OpenReel. We can direct and record a shoot using a subject’s webcam or mobile phone. Talking directly to you, we can assist with lighting and audio, control your camera and check focus, white balance, exposure and whether it’s level. When the shot is set-up perfectly, we can then talk about the content and once you are comfortable, we press record. Click the video below to watch our example of OpenReel:

Where the magic really happens

OpenReel allows us to record straight to your device. Rather than clogging up your hard drive or phone with video files, once we stop recording the file is uploaded straight to the cloud and then removed from your device. Because we are recording locally, we can use the camera’s full HD capability (1080p or 4K on some phones). The platform is easy to access and when you’re being filmed remotely you can see your director on the screen and it feels just like a video call. The director can direct you during the recording and none of their audio is picked up on the final video. The platform has so many uses like fireside talks, interviews and testimonials, and it can cater for up to four directors and four subjects, which could be a host and three interviewees.

OpenReel tips

DreamingFish has filmed dozens of remote filming shoots with OpenReel and the results have been great. Below is a list of some of our tips and advice that we have learnt:

1. The platform works best on Chrome if you’re using a webcam and currently the resolution when using a browser is 720p.
2. The mobile phone app currently works on an Iphone, but an Android version is being developed.
3. You need a good broadband connection for the upload. Depending on the interview length, the footage can take a while to upload. But this isn’t necessarily a problem. As long as the browser tab or the app isn’t closed it can upload in the background and your subject can carry on with the rest of their day.
4. With any video recording, lighting is important and remote filming is no different. We would recommend a simple ring light and you can get these quite cheaply from Amazon. We would recommend one that you can adjust the brightness and also change the colour temperature so that you can match the light in the room at different times of the day.

OpenReel advice

1. As with any video recording, think about the background of the shot and decide if you would prefer to standing up or sitting down. Standing up can come across on screen as more dynamic as people tend to use their hands more and add more movement to the shot.
2. Remember that your camera should always be at eye level, but the joy of OpenReel is that a director can help you to set up your camera in the correct way to make for the very best possible shot.
3. Always ensure you are addressing the audience by looking at the camera, not your computer or phone screen. This is important to ensure your audience feels engaged. Don’t forget to smile!

FAQS about remote filming