Juneteenth Video Reflection Submission Guidelines
Please follow the guidelines below and film a 30-second video of you reflecting upon the question, “What does Juneteenth/Black liberation mean to me?”
Please make sure you state your name and Pitt affiliation (if any) so we can add captions to your video.
Please upload your video files at this link: http://bit.ly/2MIfB9u
Submissions must be uploaded by Friday, June 11, 2021.
Please know we may not be able to use every submission and we may need to edit your video for length.
Preparing for Shoot
- Dressing for Video
- Do not wear any small patterns (like pinstripes or textured weaves) – these patterns can cause moire effect, which cannot be fixed in post
- Double check your outfit before filming – is your collar flipped up? Do you need to use a lint roller?
- Setting your scene
- Using natural lighting is best, so try to film near a bright window.
- Film with lights /a window in front of you and slightly off to the side if possible. This diagram is a good starting point (you can use a lamp instead of a reflector)
- Do NOT film with lights / a window directly behind you – this will make your face look like it’s in shadows
- Be mindful of your backdrop. A simple backdrop (like a wall or a clean office) is best. Clutter, or walls with intricate wallpaper can be distracting.
- Be mindful of where your head is in the video. It is best to stay centered or slightly off to the side like this. Make sure there isn’t too much room above your head, and make sure there aren’t any distracting objects directly behind your head.
- If possible, take a few test shots before filming to make sure you like how the shot looks!
- Make sure the room is quiet. Be mindful of rooms with lots of foot traffic or loud HVAC sounds.
Filming with a Cell Phone / Webcam
- For phones, film horizontally (with your phone sideways)
- Use a tripod or prop your camera up on a table using a stack of books or other heavy object. If you must shoot handheld, a selfie stick or an extra set of hands staying as steady as possible and keeping the subject centered is best.
- Keep your camera at eye level. Setting the camera too high or low can create distracting and unflattering angles.
- Make sure your camera lens is clean and smudge-free.
- Allow for a few seconds of silence at the beginning and end of each take, so the camera isn’t cutting in and out during your speech.
- Film at least two or three takes! This gives you a little time to practice and helps you get more comfortable on camera. Be mindful of your energy on camera!