This video is a sort of testing of my abilities with a video camera as to the types of shots that are common to ensure that I’m comfortable with the whole process for my JRN 340 class. I shot several sparrows, nuthatches, and even one very grumpy common snapping turtle in a respectful manner.

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I shot the majority of this exercise on a Canon 5D mk. IV, with secondary/wide angle shooting on a Canon 60D. I used a 150-600mm lens with a 1.4x teleconverter on a carbon fiber tripod, and on my secondary body used a 17-85mm ultrasonic lens.

I edited the whole thing on iMovie, my limitations were many. With such a heavy setup, it was difficult to create smooth movements. Not only that, but while shooting the snapping turtle, the wind was rather vicious and to shoot over its shoulder I had to extend the tripod a good deal so my camera was subject to the wind.

I learned a few things, such as why I don’t shoot video. It’s shaky, difficult to operate and edit, you can’t move for better angles while the video is shooting, it lacks much creativity that photography offers. On the other hand, it does offer a third dimension that you don’t get with photography – audio. With a picture, you can see it, sure. But you can also feel it, emotionally. And some video allows you to see, hear and feel all in the same shot. So naturally, combining all three in an artistic way should make something truly great.