Hey Reader,

This week, I'm sharing how dynamic framing can transform your storytelling, a simple method for capturing clean audio, and my thoughts on the Sony FX3 that recently joined my kit.

This Week's Frame

Key Takeaway: How changing camera positions during a scene creates emotional progression.

While consistent framing helps establish visual identity, intentionally shifting your framing throughout a scene can enhance storytelling and emotional impact.

Dynamic framing doesn't just keep viewers visually engaged, bit it subconsciously signals character development and narrative shifts.

Here's how to use it effectively:

• Distance Progression: Start with a wider frame and gradually move closer to your subject as tension builds or revelation occurs. This mimics how we naturally approach things that interest us.
• Perspective Shifts: Moving from high to low angles (or vice versa) within a scene can visually represent power dynamics changing between characters.
• Stability to Movement: Beginning with locked-off, stable shots and transitioning to handheld or more dynamic movement signals a character's world becoming less certain.

Directors like Denis Villeneuve masterfully use this technique. You can see this very well in "Arrival," the camera framing gradually shifts from disorienting and chaotic to symmetrical and controlled as the protagonist gains understanding.

But always remember, every framing change should serve your story. Ask yourself: "What emotional shift am I trying to convey here?" Let the answer guide your visual decisions.

Frame it Better

Key Takeaway: The 3-2-1 Audio Method for capturing clean audio on every shoot.

Poor audio can ruin beautiful footage quickly. After learning this the hard way too many times, I've implemented a simple 3-2-1 method that ensures high quality sound every time:

3 - Record three audio sources whenever possible:

• Primary mic (like a lav mic on your subject)
• Secondary mic (shotgun or boom)
• Camera's built-in mic (as emergency backup)

2 - Set two different audio levels:

• Set your primary recording at optimal levels
• Set your backup recording 6-10dB lower to prevent clipping if unexpected loud sounds occur

1 - One-minute audio test before every scene:

• Record a full minute of "room tone" (ambient sound with everyone quiet)
• Have subjects speak at varying volumes to check levels
• Monitor through headphones during this test (don't just watch meters)

This approach might seem excessive, but it takes just minutes and can save countless hours of reshoots or struggling with poor audio in post.

Pro tip: Always wear headphones while recording. Your ears will catch problems your eyes might miss on meters, like subtle interference, clothing rustle, or other sounds that could make audio unusable.

Final Frame

Key Takeaway: I finally got a FX3!

This camera has been on my wish list for a long time. I guess everyone who owns one knows why.

It's a beast of camera in this incredible small body. Perfect balance between the classic Alpha series and a cinema camera.

I actually didn't plan on buying this camera at that moment. By accident I found an incredible offer that was just a no-brainer. So I decided to go for it since it will be a great investment for everything I'm doing.

I'm definitely excited to start shooting and get new content out soon. I guess I will give a more in detail review here in a bit.

Thank you for reading The Weekly Frame. See you in the next one! Markus Galli

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