Why You Should NOT Shoot B-Roll - Part 1

[@ConnorLipke]

"don't shoot b-roll" meanwhile your intro is entirely b-roll.

[@BeyondSideshow]

How do you know?

[@WhatAboutTom]

B-roll is literally just a term used for the shots that aren't considered the "A-Roll." Even if you plan your shoot, there is B-Roll. B-Roll is nothing more than shots that help tell the story instead of having one single angle of someone being interviewed. You can write a 90 page shot list and draw a million story boards, it'll still be considered B-Roll. Please, if you're gonna dish out info, don't misguide people. You ABSOLUTELY need B-Roll. B-Roll IS part of the story.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Look, that’s how I wish it would be. It’s not, especially on KZbin. Professionals know all this, anybody experienced know this. But unfortunately you everyday see stuff that is weird broll and that’s definitely not well thought out way to tell your story. But sure, you’re right that broll is essential. I have Zero problem with Hollywood or professionals use of broll. Inexperienced could learn a thing about storytelling instead of taking the easy broll way out...

[@WhatAboutTom]

Creative North I think you're getting confused. There's nothing wrong with B-Roll. It's the fact that people aren't taking enough time to think about what they're shooting and make it interesting. That isn't exclusive to B-Roll. Having that mentality will ruin any film whether it's A-Roll or B-Roll. Not only that, but B-Roll is a very specific type of footage for a very specific type of film. You don't use B-Roll in Narrative films the way you use it in Documentaries. 80% of Documentaries are B-Roll. This doesn't make B-Roll a bad thing, it's just the way you decide to use it.

[@ASiddig]

@@WhatAboutTom well said.

[@eszesfilms1651]

this is now the best tip what you can give for me. I make a documentary about local archaeological excavation. First day i travel to the location without only idea. Just created a tons of footage about works. The main problem right now create a film and tell a story. This is the hardest part of it. Create good footages and edit it just a thing. At the next shoot i read all about books about this old turkey walls and find every person to shoot interview. This video came at the best time for me. "SHOULD NOT SHOOT B-ROLL"!

[@AdiSingh01]

Man.. I just found you today. Love your video. It''s so rare to find someone like you on KZbin. Such an amazing artist you are. Keep doing the great work man. Good luck.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Thanks! Makes me super happy to hear that!

[@Opticalwander]

I totally agree. Knowing the story before you head out is better. I am guilty of sometimes just not knowing I'm my videos but I have a general plan and idea. But b-role can be used to tell a story it's all depends on how you shoot the shots. If you shoot irrelevant b-role then it will confuse the watcher. Inserts help more I think ❤

[@prashanshakc822]

I am learning so many things from you. thank you and keep teaching.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Great to hear! Thanks for the thoughtful comment!

[@thel1195]

Originally, B Roll was alternative footage to help tell the story. Sometimes alternate camera angles, simultaneous action sequences going at the same time as the main image. It was not supposed to be random filler to plug a hole.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Then it got compromised :D

[@rickwelin9773]

Or footage for the second story line in the film.

[@KupalMediaNetwork]

*awesome* to hear that you have a *_point of view_* right from the start.. how amazing to hear out your idea in mis-using the b-roll shots.

[@Veptis]

When I am shooting a small documentary style report on a cycling event in my city... And I have an interview where the subject is complaining about a specific traffic light that takes cars and passengers over bikes for no reason. Would be great to have a secondary shot of said traffic light and have cars, cyclers and passengers. I think about b roll as the visual parts to an interview so you don't show the same face for a few minutes with wreid cuts. For a KZbin video you might want to get b roll for your introduction of the topic, but not for the characters

[@yoXneo]

Very good insight! Use "b-roll" only when it makes sense and it enhances the story! A lot of peoples use b-roll to cover up the scene they didn't plan on

[@SNORKYMEDIA]

so you never get a situation you didnt plan for?

[@revmatchtv]

So what he's really saying is plan your damn videos before hitting record.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah or at least know what the story purpose, conflict and all is before shooting. You don't need to plan a shotlist, rather I would focus on having a scene list that tells a story.

[@timrober75]

I think the takeaway here is something like "Don't consider the cutaway, incidental, detail, story building shots that are shot at a different time to your narrative as "B"-roll. Consider it rather as all "A"-roll" I agree, it shouldn't be thought of as desperately needing something to cover a cut, better to have planned to shoot specific, meaningful detail or positioning shots that amplify the story knowing that it will fit whether there is a cut or not. The problem is, "B-roll" is a common name given to it. Even words like "cutaway" put that footage in a 'secondary' place which I think is the point here. If I plan before I shoot an interview about someones business I'll make sure I have planned shots of the shop, the factory, the packaging department, etc and put the same care and levity to them as I give to the planning of the interview shot. SO everything is planned "A"-roll. But I would struggle to not talk about these shots as, in some way, supporting the interview, therefore there is a hierarchy... difficult.

[@RobDymott]

One point that you’ve made previously is to let your audience assume parts of your story(great point) and through thoughtful b-roll this can be achieved, as it can in many other ways. I think so often, especially when beginners hear the word b-roll thrown around from their favourite youtubers and think they understand it to then use it. It can become an after thought. I’d much rather hear what someone has to say, in a well composed shot with good lighting and sound rather than watching a 15 second b-roll sequence. It’s something I’ve learnt through my own work. Woah, that’s a long comment, it’s a good topic to talk about!

[@behindthehertz]

It really pisses me off that you are not on trending with every video man. Your videos are amazing!

[@Super-id7bq]

Always be grateful for b-roll. Not everything is predictable once you get into the edit. I can't tell you how many times I've have to cover a fluffed line, or I've found a random bit of b-roll to make something work better. The key is don't OVER shoot b-roll otherwise your shooting ratio is well off balance and you spend more time searching for the right shot (plus it's data expensive). Unless you are someone who is self-shooting and you are planning the edit in your head as you shoot, be thankful that you have been handed b-roll. It will save your ass.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

That’s true, but b-roll that is tied to story is always better. It’s more natural, more effective, makes more sense, don’t waste as much time shooting crap you won’t use etc :)

[@Super-id7bq]

Creative North Yeah exactly, I'd say that goes without saying as if it isn't tied to the story it's probably useless (like I say, overshooting b-roll is a nightmare). I can't say I've had many instances though where the b-roll isn't tied to the narrative. I don't know if we are just confusing terminology but particularly with documentary stuff, anything that is shot as coverage to cover an interview for example is generally b-roll and shot with intention, not just crap like some random dude eating a sandwich but stuff that ties into the story. Basically anything that isn't the main sync I'd consider b-roll and I'd consider it essential.

[@iComplainer]

6:44 OH SNAP. Shots fired! Lol you just called out basically EVERYONE on KZbin. Love your channel, man. Been here since ~10k subs.

[@RyanThomasDalton]

Hey Jonny, been subscribed for a while now and just wanted to say that I always enjoy the videos!

[@victorbart]

Im missing the backlit leaf shot in this video!

[@peopleiknow2896]

Thanks man. I'm out in the field shooting my first (short) doc right now. It's a very beautiful story with lots of beautiful scenes to be placed in as B-roll but I'm totally hearing you re: focusing on what the story is and following that. In my case, I'm sitting people down and doing interviews, and then I'll base b-roll on what people say, so that I can illustrate it. That's my plan anyway. Again, thanks!

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

You could do that, but I think you really avoid it being like everybody else doing interview driven stuff if you truly focus on what’s being said. I don’t mean showing what they talk about, I mean visually telling a story about that. If they talk about how they were shot at sixteen, the only way to show that is not them being shot. Shooting b-roll could also be cinematically telling that story in a perspective that makes emotional sense. It doesn’t have to be showing what’s being said. In Sweden we joke about it calling it “Apple TV” as apples are being talked about. I would challenge myself to try to tell the story in a more abstract (not confusing), way. Where you reach deeper into people’s mind than if you just show what’s being talked about. My thoughts on it anyway ;)

[@peopleiknow2896]

Creative North right right, yes that makes sense. If I'm understanding what you're saying it's almost like shoot b-roll, but elevate the b-roll to a-roll. Or, like, don't use b-roll as filler. Something like that? I'm going to go watch part two :)

[@davesnocken]

Loved your channel. Please bring it back

[@naitikjoshi8816]

Hey bro appreciate that but the reality is that it depends on the person if he likes b-roll then he can shoot it if he doesn't he also can . One more thing that we can't also resist to the fact that b-roll is a cover for unplanned stuff .

[@jcutvlogs]

are you adding grain in your edits?

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Always

[@tripyramidfilms7187]

You are so right! I shot my first film with no B roll, and it turned out just fine.

[@ArcticxBeaver]

Are you constantly travelling and meeting new people? I’m just wondering how you get footage from such distinct situations? Like the sailor in his boat, the kid in the boxing gym, the guy in the hotel room, etc

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

A lot of the time :) next week gonna talk more about those shots, they’re from a commercial we did earlier. Will talk about how to light cinematic and those stories are great example of how to do it in various ways. See this part as a tease maybe :)

[@cinemakehinde9881]

The color grading in this is very nicely done

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Thanks!

[@PixelSheep]

I think B-Roll just really makes sense when creating a review or something similar but not for movie projects

[@DEEWON]

Its amazing how the b-rolls made this "should not shoot B-Roll“ video looks more engaging and interesting.. I subscribed..

[@CarolettaMurtari]

I really like the color in your videos :D

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Thanks Caroletta Murtari! Awesome to hear!

[@jacksp8de]

Inserts are also B-roll lol I think you mean just plan your b-roll. I Have a rough plan but I might see more shots that I didn’t plan for that would make the story better, I’m gonna get those shots.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Do you Jack. But lazy broll or inserts whatever is what I hate people fighting for their right to shoot. Not having an idea or concept of the story your telling comes from inexperience. Practising that will only make you more efficient and professional in the end. But as always with everything, you should do what works for you...

[@iComplainer]

”When you're Peter McKinnon, your B-roll *is* your A-roll" -Antti Karppinen 🤔😂😂

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Even Pete’s slow motion works the best when he’s telling a story. Generally I like his videos that are most energetic and vloggy more than the slow motion. Him as a character is amazing and that’s why I watch his stuff, not for the slowmo :)

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

But also, I’m not against slow motion, I use it too. But shit just get repetitive and boring when 60-70 of your video becomes a Music video. But then I don’t like music videos either

[@selexie]

I'm confused as to what is being referred to as "b-roll" here. Planned shots of parrallel or related action is still b-roll, even if planned no? I get that your point is plan your shots, but does a planned shot mean it's no longer called "b-roll"?

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

That’s the million dollar question. I think people should stop calling it b-roll because with calling it B you subconsciously make it less priority, less tied to the story. In the end it’s all the same put people need to stop looking at there being anything that’s B. There’s a story. Focus on telling that

[@selexie]

Fair enough! Understood.

[@PeteWoronowski]

Wow this is a real eye opener and it makes sense. Being new to this level I did think B roll was very important but I agree what I really need to do is better think out my story. Good thing I'm not lazy just stupid lol. Thanks so much for this Jonny! Cheers, Pete

[@PeteWoronowski]

I have been thinking about this nonstop since watching the video and went back and re-watched other folks video's that contained a lot of B roll and it makes so much sense that better thought planning is the key. This is such a fantastic lesson, Thank you!

[@lifelikejosie]

Ahh I'm starting to realize this more and more!

[@Taiwaneverything]

Thanks for the food for thought! Love the colors of your shots. :)

[@zvonimirdrolc1316]

So if I got this right what you're saying is, if I shoot a b-roll that's telling a story of my "A-roll" then it's not a B-roll and if its not telling a story as my "A-roll" then it is a B-roll. So your end point is to shoot the B-roll that's not essentially a B-roll as it tells a story as "A-roll"?

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

So if I get this right you didn’t watch the second part did you?

[@zvonimirdrolc1316]

Creative North No, unfortunately I had to go to work, will watch it when I get home, my bad ;)

[@mylifeontour6664]

Jonny, what about if you planned to take shots in slow motion with a music overlay?

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Then that’s totally fine :) if the rest shows that it makes sense. Like what @playthegamefilms does. Justin always uses it but I always buy into it. It adds to his way of telling stories. But far too often it just become cliche:)

[@PeteWoronowski]

Hey Jonny, something you or your brother need to look into is that Firefox has blocked your website roughcuts.com saying connection is not secure. Last thing you need if you have customers looking for your work. There are ways to resolve this with Firefox and would be worth your time and effort. Cheers, Pete

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Thanks Pete! It's not just on Firefox, but on all browsers. We've solved the issue but it's going to take a few hours for the website to be back up :)

[@sivabala5232]

I was going to do a whole feature made out of b-roll. Now I have to rethink.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Look at Koyaanisqatsi, fantastic film. All b-roll or archive maybe. Amazing film, it can be done ;)

[@sivabala5232]

Creative North Thank you.

[@studiocorax8790]

A typical you tube b-roll, the Slow motion shot, is so frequent that it is predictable and have become the exact opposite of what it intended to be.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah that’s my thought on it. Nowadays slow motion is so overused it rarely adds anything. Then if you look at a lot of KZbin stuff people need to learn when you’ve seen enough. The collages usually become really repetitive and does tell a story. It’s only there not to let the audience get bored but in the end it does the opposite. I find myself turning off a lot of videos because of that,

[@ms.5779]

Good idea and examples..thanks

[@vesakko]

never really thought it this way, but it really makes sense. lots of sense actually... btw, how come you don't have any snow? :)

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

It comes and goes :) got ice on the lakes though. But it melts all the time. Just got some new snow today though, which is melting...

[@CarolettaMurtari]

I've been watching tons of videos about this (i have a background in ph but none in video and I am trying to learn), and I believe that both peter and you are saying the same, the difference is how you approach "B roll" because in your idea it's not b roll per se, which i have to say I kind of see your point. the difference lays in the semantics

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

I think my experience of making feature films and tv (which are longer formats) where things become repetitive. Just like a KZbin channel does after a while. That's where it matters. After a while everything looks the same. So one video it doesn't really matter, but any storyteller that wants longevity needs to reinvent themselves constantly. Always try new things etc. I used to do so much slides and crap just to make stuff look good. So I come from the background that KZbin is, I did that on TV 6-7 years ago. But when everybody started doing that it became less important. It forced me to really look beyond what looks good. That's when I realised how to tell stories, without easy gimmicks like transitions etc. Now I don't say don't do those, but have a wise intent with it. Otherwise they loose the effect and just makes the work pointless :D

[@CarolettaMurtari]

@@Jonnyvonwallstrom I truly appreciate the fact that you took the time to reply to my comment (and I mean this). I like your approach to film making and how you make the story the center piece. I hope I learn as much as I possibly can from you and your channel. Also, I appreciate all the davinci resolve tutorials, I just downloaded it (iMovie started to lack features I wanted to learn) and my first though was that it wasn't really user friendly :D I will binge watch your channel this weekend :D

[@dreadchampion5840]

SHOTZ FIRED!!!

[@SurajBoddu]

Good points there but say you're creating a product review, a smartphone review for example, would you just film yourself talking about the phone for 10 long minutes or would you do that + add product shots of the phone to keep the video engaging? Or would you consider even product shots as a-roll in this case? I think you should have really prefaced the video by defining, in your terms, b-roll. I did see a "what is b-roll" text firing up right at the start but you left me confused when you did not actually define it. Either way man, keep up the thought provoking content! I'm a huge fan!! Looking forward to part 2.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

I think in that case it can be fine, its what you expect. But you’ll do a better job engaging people if you manage to tell a small story while doing the review. That could be anything, but personal usually works the best, but if it’s a funny type of review it would be something else. Either way, telling a story will make the b-roll if we still wanna call it that. More organic and natural. Less sales video with weird details of irrelevant things. Or my favorite, same shot in a million variations. Just cutting and then showing the same thing doesn’t engage, you need to tell a story to engage and that’s what’s hard.

[@area4race]

B-Roll is just a Term, it gets uses inflationary these days. These days youtubers and filmmakers call b-roll the stuff you just film to fill in gaps in your story. The thing is, if you plan your B-roll, its not b-roll anymore. B-roll should be suppose to be extra film material that you havent planed but you are happy you got it to use it in your movie/film.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

100% agree :D

[@jervinquisada9774]

Nice clips man! Really like your videos, because I do same kind of stuff! ⚡️⚡️

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Awesome mate!

[@KosFishingTeam]

where is Peter's comment?

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

+KosFishingTeam I should ask him

[@KosFishingTeam]

Creative North btw i agree with you!! Great videoo man!! Subbed

[@fabioroncal8763]

I thing B-roll is not always bad, if you use it wisely, however, in these times, with lots of bloggers coming up, it feels like b-roll is just that part of the blog in slow motion, and nice color correcting, with no sense in the story, it can be the most stupid thing but in slow-mo and color corrected looks "dramatic". i completely agree with you on this one, you should have made some b-roll examples while you were opening the box though...;)

[@ChrisSchieritz]

Don't just do things by the book, it seems crazy not to shoot B roll, doing it your way seems like taking a massive step back into the basics like when you first pick up a camera you can only see what's going on in the foreground of your idea without that creative edge, I've probably got you all wrong because it seems to me like you're saying never shoot B roll because it's unplanned, therefore if something incredible happens on the scene you turn the camera off and refuse to film it because you didn't plan for it to happen!

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Look its the definition of what planning is that’s screwed up. If you tell a story, a visual story. You need certain shots to do that. I do not think that the best way to do that is to have a shotlist based on whatever everybody else is doing. That lacks perspective and personality. That’s what I mean you should not do. b-roll has because of the KZbin gen lost any value so I just think it’s better to stop to force oneself to be unique rather than doing what everybody else does. That’s what’s going on now, everything is 120fps, it’s the moody music to seem cool, it’s flashy action or whatever camera creep in moves. If you have any interest in telling a unique story you would go about in what I define cinematic as. Creating a consistent visual narrative perspective that only can be you. You telling the story. I would guess you don’t think KZbin or whatever is being in a Hollywood film is that? That’s what it lacks, it’s just generic crap that looks like a copy cat of a copy cat. But hey, I’m old...

[@ChrisSchieritz]

I'll back that up a little by saying this generation doesn't have the patience to watch one long shot of something happening, it's too boring for minds to process so some sweet buttery smooth slow motion B roll shots are just eye candy for them, obviously if you're doing a commercial for a coffee company and you add B roll of someone flying a kite that's just useless but if you use what's in front of you to really focus on the subject matter that makes a huge difference and that's a more advanced way of telling a story in our opinion of course! That being said neither of us are wrong it all depends on what you are shooting, weddings, commercial and vlogs are great for B roll but there are projects that can do without it!

[@ChrisSchieritz]

@@Jonnyvonwallstrom I mean yeah you're not wrong, it is a copycat game and it works both ways, if your video was entitled "only shoot B roll and nothing else" I'd have similar things to say about that, I wouldn't flat out say b roll is lazy and takes all the creativity out of your work, there is a time and a place to use it, it's just the norm of today's content, when a new style comes along people will most likely jump on board with that, I'm open minded with your views in this video but it came across as dead harsh on using b roll opposed to talking about it in a way that explains when it is suitable not to use it! Certainly a smart video to make because I feel like millions of people such as myself will be all over it with their opinions, almost like we're the police and you're breaking the law! If anyone gets a chance to read this I'd personally say none of our opinions are necessary the right opinion, just aim to make great content to the best of your ability and add your own personality to it to make it stand out from the rest! The right way isn't choosing between b roll or no b roll the right was is finding a new way of doing it, which would have been something good to press on!

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah I’m not really saying don’t do this, even though I am. That’s just something I say to get ppl to think though. Just regurgitating what other ppl does is not the way to win at anything. I’ve seen many fads come and go, anything that’s too easy. Like 120fps will be seen as a document of this time. Just like my first doc used short depth of field because the 5Dmk2 made that a fad. That I’m very certain of, but as a contrast to what you say about generation wanting slowmo crap. I click away or fast forward that shit. Too me it’s just lazy meaningless filmmaking. But then again, that’s me

[@ccudjoe89]

It's harsh but i think it is the reality...if it doesn't add to or progress the story or narrative, then its almost like wasted room in your film or video. That's what i understood from this. When I think of the Broll that we usually see from other major creators...it looks cool but most of the shots don't progress the story much. it's like fillers in anime

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

So true, I think b-roll is fine if you don't use it as an excuse to telling a story

[@brannicpang]

half agreed ...for featured shot B-roll useless if is only for backup... but there are few situation b-roll is needed, 1. the b-roll footage itself was planned because of the time limitation, the availability of something else (such as props, location, actor) exp.. a scene where a house will be demolished .. that's only 1 take available... 2. non featured shot such as live events ...again ... only 1 take ..... i am so agree that when we are planning for a shot or sequence. never put a b-roll as one of the matter in planning ... B-roll is a solution and shouldn't be a regular process... these are only my humble opinions. 😁😁😁

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah but then that’s something you plan from experienced because you know you need it. But b-roll in a sense of just covering up for running out of ideas is laziness. But if it’s used to cover up for not having time, then I think it’s fine. But the whole thing of cinematography is about choosing a perspective. So shooting a thing in a traditional way doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the only way. Those time limitations is what feeds creativity and it’s how you solve the limitations that essentially shows how talented or experienced you are. Not to say b-roll is something you never should do, but going to it as your first solution is skipping a chance to develop your storytelling skills also.

[@brannicpang]

i do understand what you trying to say .. B-roll shouldn't be a solution for everything when people keep misused of it ... by the way, about the time. what you mentioned is the ideal way to work with ... but ...the reality is ....haih~~~

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah that’s true, but everybody wants to convey an emotion to the viewer. That hopefully lasts and makes an impact. You do that best by making things feel natural, logical and not just pretty for sake of being pretty. So in my eyes it’s always worth striving towards making things organic rather than perfect. Even thought I value perfect shots I try not to let them dictate too much. Kill your darlings is pretty damn useful

[@AmineHamouda]

on youtube... it seems to me that the ''cinematic'' norm is the ''flashy'' b-roll ... with whooshy transition and 3-4 luts and upbeat music. that;s not cinematic.. that's not telling any story...

[@SceneAmatiX]

I think this only makes sense for certain projects.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Always makes sense to strive for

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Excited to hear your thoughts on this one!

[@Champ.offisiell]

Agreed! Just before this video I watched a video on 5 tips for better b roll where he used b roll just to show that he was walking to the beach. I think a lot of peopl dont understand that we can put two and two together.

[@Champ.offisiell]

Also i think you should have cut out the intro where this white text and nature b roll pops up and just cut to the pink intro. Just a thought

[@judekeenleyside9792]

Love your videos, but completely disagree with this one!!!

[@GusDaCosta]

Keen Photos same here, totally disagree. Shooting b-roll doesn’t not mean u r lazy or does not know what you are doing

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Well it means you ran out of ideas, was lazy or inexperienced. All of them leaves room for improvement. But agree to disagree on that one then...

[@SatanicJamnic]

I shoot only B roll. And C roll. My alphabet is a bit fucked.

[@foxcatcher40]

Sooooo many vids on youtube are almost all the same...10% info and 90%slow motion b roll. Nice to see once in a while but its the "Go to" for most bloggers now it seems. That said some of it looks really well done!

[@RiseHigh]

" Yeah i'm talking to *You* " *PETER MCKINNON* ! Haha, really like what you say, how you shoot and tell this story ! You gain a sub ! Great work ! See you soon !

[@Ahtisham]

so basically he is just naming 'B roll' as 'telling a story' while it is actually kind of B roll xD

[@AstroHBF]

I love b-roll! But this was very thought provoking

[@KamalThada]

You shoot whatever you like, prefer. GO SHOOT B ROLL if you like it

[@ELJAGUAR]

" Yeah, i m talking to you " xDDD

[@IAMDIMITRI]

Maybe the biggest differences between A-roll and B-roll is the money and the crew. When you have actors + lighting + makeup + cloth and all the other things, it's kinda expensive to shoot. But if you need an wide shot to tell where the story is taking place. You just need 1 or more people with a camera. Thus its a B-roll... Or you hire people to shoot B-roll just in case and because it's convenient..... /// People who shoot documentary or Vlogs need B-roll to tell people the setting. But it's called B-roll because it's a different way of shooting. /// Sure, you should plan for the B-roll, but it's still a b-roll. //// Btw. I'm not pro. I could be wrong.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Hollywood’s broll is a good way to look at broll, that has to do with time. It’s a way to produce more which is essential. I got zero problems with that. But the way inexperienced filmmakers use broll ends up looking unnatural and not motivated to tell the story. That I have issues with. Too me it’s obvious it’s inexperienced, but from the comments on these episodes you can clearly see that some doesn’t want to face the issue. Instead of going, oh shit, I should probably prep more. They go, broll is the best thing in the world bla bla. Anyone offended I really believe isn’t getting the whole idea of talking about broll as secondery is a problem for especially inexperienced filmmakers.

[@nalaka.perera]

You can shoot your video as you want but it dosent mean that we need follow you

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Nope but watch the first 10min of this video and I bet you will kzbin.info/www/bejne/hp3ImJ6jettrpM0

[@GLOBIK]

Very on point! Especially with the current trends on KZbin. I never shoot B-roll for my videos.

[@mariosubasic.media1]

The question is, does B-Roll HAVE to be off-topic to cover up "your blank space"

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Haha yeah, far too often it is, especially on KZbin. But of course it doesn’t have to be. But it’s too often as you say something you use to cover up for running out of ideas :)

[@mariosubasic.media1]

Yea, it's a little bit of both. But if you make it look seamless without anyone noticing, i guess you did good job. Only film makers see this stuff cause they deal with it all the time, and they look at all the aspects of the making, from camera moves and angles to color correction and so on. If you are true critic to your own work and see these kind of things and they bother you a lot, you will see them even more on other peoples films. I guess it comes with experience and love for it

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

True! But if you do it right you make everything more emotional which everybody wants it to be at the end of the day. So always worth striving for. Even though sometimes it’s not

[@theuktoday4233]

I always thought B roll was the boring bits in between the interesting bits, I imagine that Stanley Kubrick never used any B roll ever or for that matter Alfred Hitchcock, B roll is like taking photographs for the sake of it because there is nothing interesting to take pics of.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah for me that's exactly what it is. Tell a story then call the footage whatever, but tell a story first. Shoot pretty shots second ;D

[@IssarCerrato]

I vlogg everyday.. I dont have time to plan hahaha... so broll has really helped but at the sametime.. it really need to ad to the story though... working on that :)

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

It for sure makes it much more difficult since there’s so much randomness and you usually don’t take the time to think. Actually you rarely can take the time to think. Vlogging to me is much more about the consistency than it is making something perfected. But without a doubt the best vlogs I’ve done has been planned :) that’s just the way it is. Isn’t always so practical though :D but I think anybody finds a system eventually from experience. All of a sudden you realize you’re 100 more effective with what you do and I gets you better results

[@boipelojoe]

My advice is to Keep shooting B-roll .. You can plan all you want, there will be some things that you can't plan for: e,g. a bird flying by.. Be ready to capture those moments; they might make a different to you video. Don't just throw those shoots in your video; use them to tell the story. Use them with a purpose.

[@S555I666C]

I think some scenes deserve a slow motion closeup or something like that, so it seems to be a B-Roll... like a closeup of paying for something or put keys into a car... generally I agree with you if it's about planing the clip and just fill clips with nonsense shots. Like always and everywhere it's ☯️

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah but just the mindset of shooting b-roll is often what’s wrong in my opinion. If you have a plan, for instance all this b-roll or stills in “How to make it to America” is suppose to show the life in an area. Then that’s telling a story. That’s what I’m for. Not so much for shooting some hands in an interview though. That’s just standing in the way of everything...

[@S555I666C]

Creative North totally true! Thanks for always sharing your opinions and knowledge, helps to make my way

[@nathanwabre]

Love it 😂🤘🏻

[@HLCMEDIA]

I hope now your Live Sessions😍 will work better for you :)

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

The live sessions we shot is actually a good example of how I avoid shooting b-roll. We just shoot 3 takes instead of trying to shoot b-roll. That makes it more fluent in my opinion. Make it feel like one take without being it. It’s about using the cinematic language to create a feeling of reality, doesn’t have to be one take to feel liken it :)

[@HLCMEDIA]

Shure, iam totally with you with this :) We are all spoiled of B-Roll 😊 But i think a little bit of BRoll is okay, it is the Cherry on the Cake :-P

[@mikonhaaksman]

Quite a misleading video title. Technically, any shot that is supplemental to your story is b-roll. If you have the luxury of shooting and editing your own materiel, this concept of yours makes sense. If you work as an editor, you beg for more footage (b-roll) so you can fix the mistakes made on set, whether a film, documentary, or corporate piece. As a hired DP, I have to shoot way more footage than what I think would be necessary so that I can ensure the end client gets exactly what he/she needs. Why? Because most of the time - they haven't figured out what they need or want. Sure, if you are producing a film you should really know what your shots are going to be, but outside of that, you rarely have the luxury of knowing exactly what you will need. As so much of documentary and corporate work these days is interview based, I shoot those first so that I can get a better sense of what coverage I will need to get the story told. The differentiator is in how you decide to shoot the b-roll (and it is b-roll) to create a compelling and interesting story. While I agree that you should always strive to get the best and most creative footage for your story, it is still technically "b-roll."

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Look this comments screams haven’t watched part two. But I’ll elaborate anyways. Yes b-roll is what you say. But that concept of there being a B anything is a lazy way of telling stories. Both as a director and DOP. Sure what Hollywood see as B or what high end adverts see as B is super planned. I have no probs with that. But the lazy ass not wanting to plan doesn’t fly in my opinion. It’s not possible to work that way when you do high end commercials. You wouldn’t get a sign off from a client by that. It’s the essence of not being prepared. And sure everybody starts somewhere and I get it. I have too done that type of b-roll a million times because of time or planning lacking. But that’s not something to strive towards...

[@mikonhaaksman]

I certainly hope you aren't insinuating that I am a lazy ass with that comment. After 25+ years in this business, I have seen everything and worked on everything. If you work in this world long enough, you will discover that even on a commercial, you often deal with people who really don't know what they want and we end up over shooting to cover their butts. This isn't a matter of striving towards something as much as working within the realities of actual paid for productions where there are more often than not, scores of other people to deal with who may or may not share your vision. The media is cheap as they say, and it has never failed me to get everything I could than just what I thought was perfectly suited for the project. Any real professional realizes that the shoot is just one part of the full project, and an amazing amount of the story telling can be done in post. If you only have the shots you thought you needed on set, you could discover you missed an opportunity in post.

[@Sundirre]

I lovre b-roll so much it turned into my a-roll

[@embracetheart]

B-Rolls and slowmo are overrated. You don’t need these at the first place if you have a great story to tell through a vlog. It’s possible. BUT, Casey’s unboxing, Peter’s b-rolls, and Kold’d edit are the things which made them popular. Things is, You don’t even know what thing will work for you on KZbin. People are looking for uniqueness, some kind of originality when they see other’s blog and THIS uniqueness become their strengths. It’s upto you to find out what works for you. There is nothing original in the world but everyone has a unique perspective on an idea and this is what that is important. Regarding Casey, he is really a good actor, he won’t admit it but he actually is and it’s fun to watch Casey. Same goes with peter.

[@tyacoe]

Sweet Van! @5:20

[@ohthefuture7618]

I totally agree with what he's saying. People "b-roll" the shit out of everything nowadays. It's lazy. Watch any random unknown artists music video

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah misused even tough I like things to look pretty

[@SimonBarnes]

Super challenged man, because you just called out exactly how I shoot haha

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Haha at at least try it ;) because if you do bigger commercial projects you have to know this in order to get a sign off on things. You need to have a solid plan that you of course can move away from. But to present it to a client in the pre-production meetings. You need to have both a moodboard and storyboard. It really helps once you’ve worked like that for a while. You get more efficient and more consistent in style etc. A moodboard is the least anybody should do before a serious project. Then shot list can be sufficient if you’re experienced, but if you’re not, chances are you end up all stressed trying to figure shit out instead of making something fantastic.

[@SimonBarnes]

Creative North I actually just prepared a treatment for a client after watching your video on getting clients. Gave the a mood board, colour board, music samples and a basic storyboard for the idea and they took the pitch. Biggest client I've had and best paid job so far, so I owe your advice that much haha. The process was easy too because everything was planned. Shooting and edit no problem. Just very challenged because compared to how I've been rolling on YT where I go somewhere, talk about something and then stress out about what Broll to shoot to cover the rest of the video haha. Tonight I'm going to sit down and give myself my a treatment for tomorrow's YT shoot. Very inspired!

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Awesome to hear!!!

[@PriestBeats]

U used b roll in your intro

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

If you're serious about storytelling I'd watch this one kzbin.info/www/bejne/m2m5l52Ng7mnqas

[@WoodnMetalShoppe]

So why did you shoot b roll on this video? Your b roll was part of the story. Which is what b roll should be.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yep, watch the second part and that should be obvious :)

[@Ninoocon]

Its an art bro

[@BlackWoodFilmmakers]

Why is everyone relating this with Petter McKinnon?

[@BeyondSideshow]

Because he is probably the biggest youtuber uploading "how to shoot b-roll" -type videos & it's very much a part of his own style

[@KyuKim]

BUT... if used and shot correctly.... 👁 Eyegasm. 💦

[@samaatiia1650]

Finally someone calling B roll BS !!

[@pratikrai6407]

I believe you didn't convey it properly but i got your point.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

+Pratik Rai yeah agree, this one though really explain why you need to think beyond b-roll CINEMATIC STORYTELLING FOR FILM kzbin.info/www/bejne/aF6nfGBspLeeoZY

[@TheRainydayvideo]

I made the mistake of shooting B roll when I made my first film and quickly realised it was a bad idddeaaaa.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah, why not shoot some hands moving, cause that will really make this interview here truly emotional ;)

[@TheRainydayvideo]

Haha! my film teachers actually taught us to do that when I was at university (it was 7 years ago though). So funny to think about.

[@Faisalqedra]

Ok you say dont shoot B roll and in the middle of the time you talk you put B roll WOW

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Please, for you're own good, just go watch this: kzbin.info/www/bejne/nn7JlYyppNxljs0

[@KupalMediaNetwork]

*subscribed* #43615 Now i know,, B-Rolls are spoilers of the story you are conveying to your viewers.

[@fermixx]

Your video was 2 years too early. Back then B-roll was the hot stuff, all the viewers where ignorant of it being used deliberately to fill up boring (or unexistent) stories. Now we are all aware of it and demanding more of lazy youtubers when it comes to making content

[@popwillsaveus]

Who said B-rolls are not planned?

[@UlreyProductionsfilm]

I’m so guilty of this

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Everyone is ;D

[@opportunityknocks3088]

LMAO! Dude it depends on what you are shooting to use b-roll. If you have a good main story(A-roll) then you wont need it. So you should say and the title of the video should be the proper way to use b-roll!

[@overlaymedia1]

you look like the guy from Die Antwood but with long hair lol

[@mikolajm9175]

"Don't shoot b-roll" B-roll shows up immediately after in into XD Understand your approach though - but in my opinion you're just fussing about naming the shots which don't include your main character/thread but still are a part of a story

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

We’ll deploy some patience and watch the second part maybe?

[@mikolajm9175]

I hope i wasn't rude or smth. I understand your thoughts but in my opinion you're emphasising the fact that even b-roll should be planned - not totally random but connected to the told story. But it's a b-roll still ;) keep up the good work

[@jona595]

You don’t have as much subs as Peter and he uses b-roll all the time

[@ryanmammen7471]

U used b roll for this

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Did you get to part 2?

[@macfive4597]

Please crop your videos properly.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

What is properly dear sir?

[@macfive4597]

Thank you for acknowledging my comment! What I mean by "properly" is that you have put black bars on the top and bottom of your video to give it the "anamorphic look," but you kinda just stopped there. My problem is that I watch videos on a 21:9 monitor, so when the a 2.4:1 video is uploaded, it is actually just being uploaded in 16:9 with two black bars on the top and bottom of the frame, What you need to do is crop out the black bars after you have added them in, in post so I and many other people can view the video utilizing their entire monitor. Sorry for the inconvenience and somewhat abrupt comment, because nonetheless the video is actually very good and has a really interesting point to it that not many cinematographers have touched on.

[@Jonnyvonwallstrom]

Yeah reason for it has been KZbin, they won’t let you use endcards if it isn’t 16.9. I’m as annoyed as you at that. But I’ll check if they’ve changed that, doubt it though

[@macfive4597]

Alright, thanks for checking and sorry for the inconvenience.

[@Coloringg666]

Alright, so you're going on Peter Mc. 2m sub > 42k sub. Hopefully your theory and idea will make you success and famous than him in the future. Good luck catching up with your "Why You Should NOT Shoot B-roll" have fun... ;)

[@BeyondSideshow]

Ah, because of course it has to be a competition.

[@JuusoSFilm]

I dont remember Peter having a movie on netflix 😏 This guy has...I think this guy is more honest and informative about making movies and pro videos than peter for example. But again, its not competition, they're both informative and entertaining...for free! 🙌

[@BeyondSideshow]

All true - and really, they have very different aims indeed.

[@finnarmstrong3532]

So wrong bro