As video becomes a bigger part of our lives due to social media and streaming, we are expecting and starting to see our clients - architects and interior designers - showcase their work in video form as well.
The equipment for interior design videography and real estate videography is similar. However, interior designers prefer more thoughtful, precise clips that focus on the materials, light and space. The time spent on an interior design video shoot is also longer than real estate and to showcase the project in the best light, it is important to use a variety of video equipment (gimbal, slider, fluid head) to highlight each space specifically.
The angles for video and photo can be really different. Video should cover a combination of different angles - from wide shots to details and how natural light highlights certain materials. It is also more about portraying the mood of the space than the still photographs. For example some of the introduction clips can be close-ups of the exterior flowers or a waterfall detail. When you think about video you have to think about a series of images.
Equipment
Your first question might be... Can my existing camera shoot video well?
The overall answer is yes, your camera can shoot video but if you want your video footage to be comparable to your stills output, the technical aspects do matter. The basic requirement is a camera that can shoot a detailed 4K video. If the color science of your camera is good for photography, it doesn’t mean it would be good for video. Cameras that focus on videos are constantly improving with a focus in ISO and highlights.
Some cameras have log or flat profiles that allow better color grading opportunities in the editing stage. However, some still cameras produce really low sample video files that don’t offer much flexibility in post production. (P.S. I still have my old Canon 5D Mark II which back in the day 10 years ago was impressive for video and now I won’t ever shoot video with it!)
Ideally you should look at cameras that can film 10bit and have a log profile or flat cine curve. If the camera has the option of 4K at 60fps, it’s a big plus. Generally speaking, mirrorless cameras are better than DSLRs because of the specs and weight.
What new gear should I consider?
If your current camera doesn’t shoot video well, here are some suggestions:
FUJIFILM X-T4 Mirrorless Camera (Black)
- It's color science is pleasant and it shoots 4K at 60fps which is good for gimbal use.
- The stabilized sensor is great for handheld use because it’s a mirrorless camera so it’s light and the lenses are small.
- It’s good for lightweight sliders
- The camera also has a flip out screen which is key for video.
Blackmagic Design Pocket Cinema Camera 4K
- The Blackmagic Pocket Camera shoots in pro-res.
- The raw video’s color science is also good.
- It doesn’t have a record limit which is useful for interior designers talking for long periods of time so you don’t have to stop and start.
You’ll need to get familiar with other types of gear, so let’s look at some you’ll want to consider.
Magnetic ND filters for timelapse
The proper way to cut the light is using ND filters. ND filters for interior and architecture are not as important as in other genres like narrative filmmaking where motion blur is key for a cinematic look. However, it’s still recommended to use as the filter allows slower shutter speed, which creates a smooth motion blur. This can be especially useful when shooting trees, water, and other fast moving objects.
The filter recommended here is the Freewell 77mm Magnetic Quick Swap Neutral Density 0.3 Filter (Click image to view)
Sliders
Sliders are necessary for creating a smooth clip, especially a motorized slider is a must for shooting because it’s more precise. The effect is similar to that of a small dolly on TV sets. Small sliders are beneficial for video because every second matters and having a long slider requires more setup time with two tripods, which you then have to make sure are both level. (Click images to view)
Gimbals
Gimbals, if used correctly, can be a good tool for shooting interiors, but it is key to shoot slowly and to match the slider speed. Gimbals are handheld so if you want to shoot in a straight line there is no limit on how far you can go. They offer a longer track than sliders but also bring other possible movements that were only possible previously with cranes and dollies. The set up and initial learning curve isn’t as easy as sliders but once you learn it, it’s a good tool to have. Some people even use hover-boards or skates to stabilize even further!
(Click images to view)
Fluid Head
Although it’s not mandatory, it’s good to have a fluid head because it can add a subtle motion to the detail shots. You can pan fluidly left and right and tilt up and down. However, make sure to shoot at 60fps since you will need to slow down the footage. (click image to view)
Drones
It’s not necessary to spend a fortune to have a nice drone with a nice camera. I like using small drones because they’re easier to fly indoors and good for beginners to learn. For example, you can fly them indoors for certain angles which isn’t possible with a gimbal, like flying over a living room or in a staircase when a ceiling is high or a birds-eye view. Make sure that you have the correct FAA 's Small UAS Rule (Part 107) license and insurance in order to pilot it legally as a business in the US.
Tripods
I tried different tripod styles but the best one for video sliders are the ones that have a flat replaceable base that can be switched for both photo and video. A bowl head makes it easier to level the slider or the fluid head on top. When I’m shooting stills I change the ball head for a centre column and I can use the same tripod. If you want to make your life easier you should buy a carbon fiber tripod as it’s lighter. It’s key to have a light tripod as video equipment setup is heavier than photo.
Final Thoughts
I encourage all photographers to try video even if it’s just for fun because it’s a good tool to communicate visuals in a different way! Also, don’t feel pressured to try everything at the same time. For a year when I started, I just used a slider, and even to this day 80% of the time I just use a slider. You can start by doing a short 30-second video at an upcoming photo job and share it with the client. Sometimes it’s hard for clients to see the value of it unless you show them an example. I love shooting video because it tells a different story and it’s really fun to bring the project to life in a more dimensional way. If you have any more questions feel free to reach out to me on Instagram!
Want to see a few samples of Lauren’s amazing video work? Here are two sample videos that can serve as aspiration and examples of what designers seek out!
John Lautner - Salkin House from Lauren Engël on Vimeo.
10443 Corfu Lane Me.mp4 from Lauren Engël on Vimeo.
Lauren Engel is a Los Angeles-based videographer and photographer whose work has been featured in major publications such as Dwell, The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Variety Magazine, and Yahoo. Growing up in Hong Kong, she developed an interest in capturing architectural and interior environments being surrounded by neomodern environments and futuristic forms, and now focuses her expertise in that genre. She also has a background in digital marketing and uses this to better understand client’s branding, scope of marketing projects, and assist in growth.
Website: www.engelauren.com
IG: www.instagram.com/engelaurenphoto