Guidelines for Filming

Guidelines for Filming

Guidelines for Filming a Video for COMPETITION

“The Power of Goodness”

1.Plan the filming in advance.

As you prepare your project or event, decide who will be responsible for filming, what equipment will be used, and which shots will be needed. Assign a dedicated person or team for this task.

2. Use a drone when possible.

For outdoor activities, aerial shots provide dynamics and add a professional look to the video.

3. Include interviews.

Record short interviews with participants, volunteers, organizers, or beneficiaries. Ask what the project means to them, how it made them feel, or what inspired them.

4. Tell a story, not just document.

Focus on emotions, action, and outcomes. Show people, not only activities.

5. Capture the preparation phase.

Behind-the-scenes footage of volunteers packing, organizing, or coordinating creates authenticity and highlights the effort behind the cause.

6. Gather short statements.

Even one or two sincere sentences from someone whose life has been touched can be very powerful. Seek authenticity rather than long monologues.

7. Ensure good lighting.

Whether indoors or outdoors, light is essential. Avoid dark rooms or shooting directly against the sun.

8. Use stable equipment.

Unsteady shots are distracting. If you don’t have a professional camera, use a tripod or stabilizer for your phone.

9. Film in horizontal format.

For higher quality and compatibility with platforms such as YouTube, always shoot horizontally.

10. Include close-up shots.

Faces, smiles, and hands in action bring warmth and humanity to the story.

11. Ensure clear sound.

Use an external microphone if possible. In noisy environments, consider recording separately or adding narration afterwards.

12. Show the final result.

Present the completed project, the happy participants, and the overall impact achieved.

13. Build a timeline through your shots.

Show “before, during, and after” the event. This structure helps tell a complete story.

14.Capture audience reactions.

Smiles, applause, and emotions are living proof of the project’s impact.

15. Include children and youth (with consent).

If children are part of the initiative, ensure parental consent for filming. Their smiles often speak louder than words.

16. Add supporting images or archives.

If your project has history, use “before and after” comparisons, documents, or older photos to show progress.

17. Use music to enhance emotion.

Neutral, uplifting music reinforces the message. Make sure to use licensed tracks or free-to-use libraries.

18. Add English subtitles, especially when people are speaking.

Even short statements should be subtitled to ensure clarity and accessibility.

19. Display names and roles.

When showing someone speaking, add their name and role for context.

20. Start and finish with identity elements.

Open with a short title/intro and close with your club’s logo.

21. Include a message or a quote.

A powerful line or inspiring quote at the end can leave a lasting emotional impression.

22. Prepare a clear script before editing.

Decide what story you want to tell, in what sequence, and with which footage.

23. Show the impact achieved.

Highlight how lives were improved or what was accomplished. This is the heart of the contest — the lasting mark of kindness.

24. Respect Rotary branding.

Use the official Rotary logo, fonts, and colors. Guidelines are available at brandcenter.rotary.org.

You are not alone in this process! Contact us if you have questions!

Arkan Apturahman
ARPIC 2024/2027 Zone 21B, 
D2482 Bulgaria

Mail: arkannihat@gmail.com