Choosing the Number of VIDEOGRAPHERS for your Theatre Performance

Your SharpShooters Video package will include 3 video CAMERAS at your show.

The part you get to customize is how many VIDEOGRAPHERS you want operating those cameras:

  • 1-videographer.

    • You’ll get just 1 videographer following the main action of the show. The other 2 cameras will capture different stationary angles of the stage.

  • 2-videographers.

    • You’ll get 2 videographers following the action of the show - coordinating their shots to capture as much of the action as possible. The 3rd camera will capture a stationary shot of the full stage.

 

Your choice determines:

  • the LOOK of your final video

  • the PRICE of your final video


So how do you Decide?

The following samples can help you choose.

  • 1-MANNED CAMERA

A 1-manned camera package features 1-videographer positioned at the center of your venue/auditorium. They’ll be shooting “documentary-style.” This means their camera will follow the main action of the show.

This style is preferred by:

  • Smaller groups performing on smaller stages

  • Groups who prefer to see more of the full action at all times, including ensemble characters, choreography, lighting, and tech elements

  • Groups with smaller budgets

PROs:

  • The video will feature more of the full action of the show, including full choreography

  • See more of the lighting, set design, and technical aspects of the show that could be missed with more main performer close-ups

  • Most affordable option

CONs:

  • Less variety of footage throughout the show

  • Minimal close-ups, especially during split-stage action

  • Lose the option to edit to a “tighter” camera angle to potentially cut-out/cover any on-stage flubs

  • 2-MANNED CAMERAS

A 2-manned camera package features the main videographer positioned at the center of your venue/auditorium. They will follow the action just as they would for a 1-manned camera shoot.

Then, you get a 2nd videographer seated in the front row for an unobstructed view of the stage. That videographer will be capturing performer close-ups during the show.

This style is preferred by:

  • Larger groups performing on wider stages

  • Groups who prefer a variety of footage for a more “entertainment-style” final video

  • Groups performing an advanced show with rapid dialogue between characters, quick entrances/exits, or multi-level blocking that could be more fully captured with 2 videographers following different action

  • Groups with larger budgets

PROs:

  • More variety of footage, including impactful performer close-ups

  • More coverage for split-stage action, like 2 performers on separate wings at the same time

  • Can potentially avoid showing on-stage mistakes by cutting to a different camera angle

CONs:

  • Not all on-stage performers can be seen at all times in the final video

  • Higher price than 1-manned camera package