Video Production Jargon You Need To Know

Video Production Terms So You Can Sound Smart On Set.

With the exponential growth of video marketing and production, it is necessary to know the jargon that comes along with the territory. 

Let's get you caught up to speed:

Accent light:  

The accent light is a light unit that emphasizes one subject or area. So it can either be a key light (highlighting the form and dimension of a subject), a kicker (highlighting the edges of a subject) or a back light (lighting the subject from behind).

B-roll:  

B-roll is alternate or supplemental footage intercut with the main shot. There is A footage and B footage. The A footage consists of the main shots while the B footage consists of the accompaniments. B-roll is shot without sound and is shot separately from the primary footage. It is composed of supporting scenes for cutaway shots or shots further demonstrating what a subject is discussing.

Call sheet:  

A call sheet is a list of all the crew, talent and clients who will be required on set for a day’s shoot. The call sheet contains details like required attire, location, and the schedule for the day.

Clapper:  

Clapper is short for clapperboard. It is iconic for being 'clapped' together after the director calls “lights!camera!action!”. It is a black and white rectangular board used by the director and editor to identify a shot when editing. The board identifies the scene, take, and shot and names the production title, director and director of photography. 

C-stand:  

Also known as a century stand, it is a multi-purpose piece of metal equipment which is used on most film sets. Primarily, it is used to position light modifiers in front of light sources. It has a collapsible base, 2 riser columns and a baby pin at the top.

C-47: 

Don't be fooled by its fancy-sounding name. A C-47 is simply a generic wooden clothespin that has various uses on set. 

DP: 

The DP refers to the Director of Photography, a crew member who works alongside the director. He or she is in charge of the look, lighting and composition of the film.

PA: 

PA stands for production assistant. This person is a member of the film crew and is responsible for various aspects of a production. They provide help to the producer whenever it is needed.

Per Diem: 

This refers to the daily allowance of costs incurred while filming on location. It can be used for food, transport and lodging.

Post:  

Refers to post-production which happens when the filming is completed and editing begins.

Rough cut:  

This is the first version of an unfinished video often including a sample voice over, music and placeholder graphics.

Sticks: 

Sticks are 3-legged pieces of equipment which hold up the camera, also known as a tripod. 

VO:  

VO refers voice over. A voice over is an off-screen voice narrating the footage on screen.

This is just the beginning of learning the ins and outs of filmmaking, but, hopefully, it gives you a head start.