Cinematography Demo Reel Content

magicmack

magicmack

Active member
Hey, so I am soon going to have to put together a demo reel for a university portfolio. Would it be best to keep it 2:30 or less? The maximum time we have is about 5 minutes. Also the question I have about the content is, should all the content used in the reel be taken from completed projects that I have done? Or is it accceptable for some of the footage be from uncompleted projects, and footage shot specifically for the reel?

Thanks
 
only use your strongest clips - basically, your highest quality work - where it comes from doesn't matter, what matters is that its YOUR work. I'd say 2.5 min is way too long for a demo. keep it under 2, preferably 1.
 
Hey, thanks for the response. It is definately my work and will showcase my strongest work.

So it is fine if I shoot footage specifically for the reel, and not for any other project? There won't be any issues with that? The footage doesn't have to come from completed projects?

Thanks
 
I've seen a couple demos longer than 3 min that were amazing i've seen shorter ones that were amazing as well.

Make it at as long or as short as it will keep people mesmerized.

When you place all your favorite clips in the timeline I'm sure you will have a hard time chopping it down so run it past some know film confidants or trusted friends a couple times before you turn it in.

As far as footage from completed projects or works in progress. Use both. I have a shot or two in my demo that are scenes that I didn't shoot for any project in particular I just thought they were beautiful.
 
I personally make a decision after only a few seconds of a demo reel. Having contact info in the beginning is a frustration. A reel longer than 30 or 40 seconds can easily become a drag (unless it is filled with fantastic-ness).

The main thing is that it depends on what the reel is for. Does it really need to contain long scenes (maybe if it is a director's reel showcasing blocking and acting). Does it really need to show two or more shots from the same piece? Figure out what you audience is and edit for them. IMHO, it is better to have multiple specialized reels than one long one.

As for uncompleted work, it shouldn't cause any issues unless you misrepresent it as completed work.


Jason
 
You can and should use anything and everything that you ever shot if there is no NDA type issues. make it 2:30 or less (mine is too long at like 4 mins). Most people won't watch the whole thing anyways. The hardest part is getting rid of so much that you love.

Far and away the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.
- Theodore Roosevelt

Justin McAleece
http://www.redonerental.net
Justin@BLAREMedia.net
 
Thanks guys for all the advice.

Now one more question about it. Should you place the majority of your strongest work at the beginning or the end? Or should it go from weakest to strongest?

Thanks.
 
It should start off strong, then transition to some strong stuff in the middle, then finish it off with some more strong work of yours.

Why show anything weak in something that's supposed to be your best?
 
I understand that it all must be your strongest work, but what I am saying is where should the most impressive, outstanding shot be. Your most amazing shot. Should you start or finish with it?
 
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