Video Shooter - Barry Braverman

Video Shooter by Barry Braverman, copyright 2005

I suppose the author is adequately qualified to brag about his childhood accomplishments and his family, which he does throughout this book. However, I question his qualifications to write about video basics like framing and composition (among other things).

Braverman may be forgiven, I suppose, for using the term "Law of Thirds" when the generally accepted term is "Rule of Thirds", but how do we forgive him for not properly illustrating what it means on the pages where he introduces the term? In fact, three of the four illustrations on those pages aren't in either 4:3 or 16:9 format - not even close.

I think the most telling photo that shows his lack of understanding of composition basics, is on page 29 - the photo of his daughter (also not anywhere near a 4:3 or 16:9 format). She is centered, ignoring the rule of thirds, and looking out, not into the frame. She is cut off at the knees (a big no-no) and arguably has a bit too much headroom - especially for a shot where you're trying to show composition basics. I won't even get into the lighting issues.

Add this book to the list of those written by people who claim to have multiple years of experience but instead, appear to have but one year of experience multiple times over.

I could go on and tell you that Braverman's roots in film are showing as he continues to prefer putting things in front of his lens, thereby cementing the effect onto the tape instead of adding effects in post where you retain more control, and he generally displays an elitism of sorts, perfering film and showing a general disdain for video.

It takes two important assets to write a good instructional/educational book:

1. You must have a thorough understanding of the topic.
2. You must be able to effectively communicate your knowledge in a way that can be readily understood by others.

I feel that both of these attributes are missing here and cannot recommend this book. Also, if the author dislikes the video medium so much, why doesn't he write about film, his obvious preference?