Using Graphics

The term graphics (captions) covers all the two-dimensional visuals used in the production – diagrams, charts, maps, graphs, titling, etc.

Forms of graphics

Graphics can range from scribbled roughs to immaculate pseudo-three-dimensional art. Graphics can be presented as cards/boards set up in front of a camera or within a setting. Photo-slides of graphics can be front or rear projected, or scanned by a slide-projector. Static or animated graphics can be created electronically (computer graphics, desktop video). Solid three-dimensional graphical models are occasionally used.

Simple graphics

The simplest, most versatile form of graphic is card-mounted artwork supported in front of a camera. You can shoot the entire graphic, select various parts of it, or explore it with the camera. You can fill the TV screen, or inset (insert) it as a small segment of the shot Using chromakey, the graphic can become the entire background of the shot.

There are various simple tricks, such as placing a black card over a list of names, and progressively revealing them, or using the switcher to wipe names in/out. If you videotape a graph in a series of very brief takes, adjusting it or adding details between each, it will appear animated when the tape is run, Simple animation may just involve interswitching; e.g. between ‘hand-up’ and ‘hand-down’ versions.

Care with camera graphics

• Wherever possible, arrange graphics in 4 wide by 3 high overall proportions. Otherwise the camera will overshoot or miss parts of the graphic. (To prevent this, use a large black backing card.)

• Keep important details away from the edge of the frame, to avoid cut-off.

• For best results, limit detail and information. Small detail, close fine lines etc., will not reproduce well.

• The ideal graphic’s surface is matte, flat, with no buckling, curling, blistering, wrinkles.

• When shooting camera graphics, avoid fast intercutting between a series of rapid changed cards. It only requires one false change, a wobble or misalignment, to wreck the sequence.

• It’s easier and more reliable to zoom on a graphic card (remember’ to prefocus), than to dolly (track) in/out (problems in following focus).

• Always shoot a graphic head-on to avoid distortion.

• Surface light reflections or glare may be remedied by slightly angling the graphic.

Computer graphics

Depending on software and design, computers can produce a variety of effects, such as line drawing, ‘watercolor’, ‘poster’, ‘oils’ and textured ‘brushes’ in several styles. You can introduce logos, symbols, and prearranged effects from library files. ‘Grab’ a video still or a photo shot, and you can treat it in many ways: adding, altering or removing details; modifying color and textures.

Typical camera graphics sizes (4 units across, by 3 units down)

Thickness of support card (minimum) 2 mm (in line image)

Exploring graphics

By exploring a detailed graphic with the camera, a story can be told while providing continual visual change.

Aspect ratio

1. Only a graphic in 4 by 3 proportions will fit the TV frame. graphic can be shot as a whole but with black side borders.selected areas.

2. A tall narrow

3. It can be shot in