Note:

You may use a cell phone, tablet, video camera or computer to record the performance. Good sound and video quality are important, so please use the best device available. (Cell phone may be the easiest option to use to record and upload afterwards.)

Before you shoot:

• Be aware of your light source. You want your light source in front of your subject, not behind your subject. Cover any windows or glass doors that may be in the shot.
• Avoid wearing clothing with checked patterns (like hounds’ tooth, for instance) or other close /busy patterns, these tend to “dance” on video.
• The closer the shot, the better. So, come in as tightly as your subject s you can. WE need to see your smiling faces and your instruments, but not much more.
• Remember to silence any other devices in the room (phones, computers, etc.) that might make noise while you are shooting
• Try to place your camera so it is at eye level, or better yet, shooting at a slightly down angle. Avoid shooting at an up angle.
• Beware of moving ceiling fans or anything else in your shot that might create distracting motion.
• Make sure your high definition video camera or smart phone is set to its highest quality video setting, at least 1920 X 1080 or higher. Many smart devices offer 4K and higher quality, which looks great. You will need to go into your video camera’s or smart phone’s settings to adjust settings. If you have never done this, don’t worry. A quick internet search should help you locate the instructions you need.

When you shoot:

• If you don’t have a tripod, ask someone to shoot the video for you, or rest your phone on a stable surface (again at eye-level or higher)
• Do not shoot vertical, or portrait. Do shoot horizontal, or landscape

  

• It is okay to move the camera as you shoot, but avoid quick, jerky movements. The video must be made in one continuous take and from one fixed, stable camera angle/location. No stopping of the recording between pieces. No zooming in and out.
• It is probably best to keep the camera still.
• Please begin your video by introducing yourself
  Example: the performer’s name, title of pieces in the order they will be played using the following script:
  “This is ____________. (entrant’s name) I will be playing pieces _____________ by ___________ and ____________by ______________.” (Important: Please announce in the order piece will be played.)
• Each video file should contain only one piece
• Videos must not be edited in any way. No splicing, and no manipulation of the recording in any way. Failure to comply will result in disqualification
• For violin, viola, cello, ukulele and other instruments, accompaniment is recommended, but not required
• Applicant must always remain on screen.
• For pianists, a full size 88-key (digital or acoustic) piano should be used to perform on. The student’s upper body including head, arms, and hands are to be visible at all times.
  (This is also necessary for all other instrumentalists; the student’s whole body must be visible at all times).
• Please Note: Memorization is required for all events

After the shoot

• Upload your video to YouTube. Create an account if you do not have one.
• If you can, rename the file RHFA followed by your last name. For example, “RHFA Williams”
• Because the video file will be too big to email as an attachment please send as YouTube link to: rhfa@cfl.rr.com
• Please be sure to put “RHFA(your name)” in the subject line
• Please allow sufficient time to prepare and upload your videos

Questions or problems may be directed to:Info@rubyhollandfoundation.org

Video Guideline provided by D. Wilson and adapted for RHFA Music Competiion