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Culture in the Community 2020 Video Guidelines

  • Videos should be uploaded to a cloud file sharing service (e.g. Dropbox, Google Drive) and include a link to the video on the application
  • Videos should not exceed 5 minutes.
  • Videos should be clipped or edited to only include one performance. Applicants may submit more than one video per application.
  • No additional graphics or text should be added to the video.
  • Video submissions may be pre-recorded from a previous event (i.e. videos from past performances or events are acceptable). If submitting a video from a previous event avoid large promotional banners (i.e. businesses, sponsors, etc.).
  • If creating a new video specifically for Culture in the Community, please keep safety in mind due to COVID-19 (masks may be worn by performers).
  • Videos with any inappropriate themes or content will not be considered for use.
  • By submitting an application and video you agree to have your video(s) downloaded by the City of San Ramon and posted to the City of San Ramon website for an indefinite amount of time.
  • The City of San Ramon has permission to edit the submitted video to include graphics, logos, text overlay, or trim the video at its discretion to best fit the event.
  • Be creative and have fun!

Culture in the Community 2020 Video Tips 

  • Always shoot your video in landscape mode.
  • Clean your camera lens regularly to avoid dust or grease.
  • Check your lighting and background so you can easily see the performer(s) and minimize distractions.
  • Use a DSLR or GoPro type camera before a cell phone if possible.
  • Consider using a tripod or gimbal to keep your camera steady and level. If you do need to hold your camera/phone, you can make it more steady by holding with both hands, as close to your body as possible, and/or propping your elbows against or on something.
  • Consider using a microphone to increase sound quality. Unfortunately, a phone’s built-in mic alone isn’t great, especially if you’re shooting in noisy environments or want to focus on specific sounds. If you do not use a microphone, but your camera/phone close to the audio source.
  • Review your video. After recording check your video to ensure that you captured all of your performers and the audio is at an appropriate level. Make sure there are no distractions, external noise, or shaky video before submitting.
  • If recording using a phone here are some tips:
    • Don’t use the zoom function. The zoom on most phones is digital zoom, not optical zoom, which is no good for detail or image quality. Using it will likely make your video look grainy.
    • Use the exposure lock. The phone automatically focuses on the subject in your shot and adjusts to the proper amount of lighting your camera “lets in”, or exposure. If you’re shooting a video with someone talking, the constant automatic adjustments can make the footage choppy. Use your Auto Exposure/Auto Focus (AE/AF) lock feature by tapping on the screen and holding it until AE/AF box appears. Once it does, the focus is locked and you can adjust exposure by dragging your finger up or down. Both of these keep the video looking consistently sharp.
    • Put your phone in Airplane mode. This is to avoid getting unnecessary interruptions and sounds from notifications while you’re shooting. You can do that in Settings or by swiping up on your screen to bring up the Control Center and hitting the airplane symbol.