When you videotape a segment, it will help the video editor if you provide a log to accompany the taped footage.

This log should provide:

• A take-by-take list of the content of each tape.

• Camera time codes to indicate how far into the tape each segment begins.

• Indications of which takes are the best (with asterisks or stars).

• Other notes about audio levels or camerawork.

The log doesn’t need to be fancy; it is usually hand-written as the footage is shot. But whatever information you provide in it will save your editor countless hours and a lot of headaches.

Here’s an example of a log for a how-to video about applying rub-on scrapbooking stickers.


How to Apply Rub-Ons

Camera 1

Taped on May 15, 2007

Location: Scrapbook work room

Talent: Megan Boettcher

Videographer: Katie Nugent

Intro
0:35—take 1
0:55—take 2 (possible noise from hallway)
1:20—take 3**
1:40—take 4*

Application

2:05—take 1
3:30—take 2*
5:15—take 3
6:44—take 4**
7:00—take 5

Close-ups (no audio)
9:20—take 1
10:10—take 2 (slower panning)


Closing
11:25—take 1*
11:55—take 2*