Deliver toUnited Arab Emirates
How to Shoot Video That Doesn't Suck: Advice to Make Any Amateur Look Like a Pro

Description:

Newly updated and revised, How to Shoot Video That Doesn’t Suck is a quick and easy guide that will make your video better instantly—whether you read it cover to cover or just skim a few chapters. It’s about the language of video and how to think like a director, regardless of equipment (amateurs think about the camera, pros think about communication). It’s about the rules developed over a century of movie-making—which work just as well when shooting a two-year-old’s birthday party on your phone. Written by Steve Stockman, the director of the award-winning feature Two Weeks, plus TV shows, music videos, and hundreds of commercials, How to Shoot Video That Doesn’t Suck explains in 74 short, pithy, insightful chapters how to tell a story and entertain your audience. In other words, how to shoot video people will want to watch.

Here’s how to think in shots—how to move-point-shoot-stop-repeat, instead of planting yourself in one spot and pressing “Record” for five minutes. Why never to shoot until you see the whites of your subject’s eyes. Why to “zoom” with your feet and not the lens. How to create intrigue on camera. The book covers the basics of video production: framing, lighting, sound (use an external mic), editing, special effects (turn them off!), and gives advice on shooting a variety of specific situations: sporting events, parties and family gatherings, graduations and performances. Plus, how to make instructional and promotional videos, how to make a music video, how to capture stunts, and much more. At the end of every chapter is a suggestion of how to immediately put what you’ve learned into practice, so the next time you’re shooting you’ll have begun to master the skill. Steve’s website (stevestockman.com) provides video examples to illustrate different production ideas, techniques, and situations, and his latest thoughts on all things video.


Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

"Like two years of film school in 248 pages" - Steven Pressfield, author of "The War of Art" and "The Legend of Bagger Vance"

"Stockman has packed a veritable film school between the pages of this highly informative, yet entertaining book. Very highly recommended."

―Videomaker Magazine

"Great tips from a video expert."

PC World

"Whip-smart and funny... teaches readers how to think about film and reveals the why and when behind techniques; there is next to zero tech or tool talk."

―Library Journal

"His simple-to-follow guide takes readers step-by-step through the film- and video-making process"

―Kirkus Reviews

“Stockman skipped past all the technical crap about how to use a camera and cut right to the chase: how do you shoot a video somebody else will WANT to watch? The only thing missing is a time machine so I could reshoot fifteen years of sucky birthday party and school play videos.”
--David A. Goodman, Executive Producer/Head Writer of “Family Guy”

From the Author

My hope is that anyone, at any level, can open the book anywhere and get a great idea for their next video. 

IF YOU'RE BRAND NEW, this book will start you thinking about how to communicate with an audience.  Your videos will be more fun to watch-- for your friends, your relatives, and even for you.  It will help you make video you'll be really proud to share. 

MORE EXPERIENCED VIDEOGRAPHERS will find chapters on critical principles like storytelling, structure, emotion and composition-- plus exercises you can practice to improve your video skills. 
IF YOU'RE A PRO, you'll still find enough advanced ideas to make it worth the price of admission. Hell, when I flip through the book I find things I wish I'd remembered on last week's shoot (Because there's so much good stuff here, I'd like to think-- but it could just be failing memory.) Check out my blog (stevestockman.com) for more on shooting video that doesn't suck!

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Best Book on Video

D.C. · November 28, 2024

When people ask me the best way to learn video skills, I point them to this book. Whether you’re just starting to get into video or have video experience, Steve Stockman gives you the tools you need to create videos people will actually watch. Of course, you have to learn the skills, practice them and then implement them. First off, Steve tells you up front that this book isn’t about equipment. And that’s a good thing because you may have the latest and greatest DSLR/mirrorless camera, an old hand-me down camera or your smartphone. This is a technique and skills book. Steve breaks everything down into easy to digest chapters and succinctly explains everything. He doesn’t overwhelm you with technical jargon, but writes in everyday, understandable language. You don’t need a videography/cinematography dictionary next to you as you read this. He provides everything you really need to know to get started, or get reoriented if you’ve fallen victim to all those fancy YouTube techniques or crazy transitions. I have both the Kindle and paperback versions. If you thumb through the pages of my paperback edition, you’ll discover all the notes, highlights and underlines I’ve made in it. It’s a book I reference again and again. If you want to make videos and don’t know where to start, then start with this book. Or if you started already and need some help to cut through all the other video stuff “creators” inundate you with, then cut to the chase and get this book.

5.0 out of 5 stars Practical & enjoyable guide!

A.F. · June 30, 2025

This book focuses on basic techniques without getting deep into jargon or tech not available to the average person. Even if you're not the one creating a video, it's a good read to help you articulate about what you like or dislike about films. There is lots of practical advice and the author is quite funny. Overall, an enjoyable read that (like a good movie) entertains and educates.

4.0 out of 5 stars A quick read with a lot of information.

V.R. · September 7, 2024

The short chapter make this an easy book to pick up for a few minutes, get a new concept, and then out it down.It changed how I think about making videos. I just finished it, so I haven't got a finished video. But I shot one last night, and I shot it very differently, based on what he said. We'll see how it comes out.

5.0 out of 5 stars Videographer must have!

m.a. · July 17, 2025

Great book for the beginner and for those who need a refresher. You think you nothing more to learn and then you read this book and it gives you perspective. You can always learn something new if you are open to it. Third time reading this one.

5.0 out of 5 stars Junior filmmaker loves this book.

J. · August 10, 2025

Junior filmmaker loves this book.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great book on something most people can't do well

D.F. · June 21, 2013

I came across a guy recently who's put out a really good book, for everyone that has a video camera. I've owned a whole lot of cameras since the 1970s, culminating in my DLSR. I thought I knew a lot about composition and engaging an audience, but Steve Stockman's book showed me, like most people I had little idea about how to shoot movies.The book is called "How to Shoot Video that Doesn't Suck." As Steve says, if you shoot the normal sort of video people will get bored and zone out or leave. He has a number of solutions. The first thing is to have some sort of a plan. Don't expect that you'll get interesting video by walking around with the camera. He suggests that when you start shooting you don't move or zoom the camera, but just position yourself and set the camera so that you can see the your subject.His second point is to close up on people's faces. Parts of your video should be emotional, and that emotion is seen on people's faces. Again, stay in one place where you are able to capture a face in close up. Their expressions are the best way to tell your story.He says that newbie videographers often let each shot run too long. Around 10 seconds is usually long enough. If the person is saying something that that takes a long time to explain, cut to other shots for a second or two during this time. Almost everyone will grow bored quickly with a person on screen that shown in the same position, even if they're telling an interesting story.The other thing is a problem with light. I see so many cruise videos where the camera person starts in the corridor, opens the cabin door, and the light from the windows is so bright that until the camera adjusts you can't see anything. He advises shooting against the light, for instance if a person is sitting in front of a window. All you'll get is a silhouette where you can't see the face.I felt really bad because, in spite of my photography experience, I would have made these mistakes pretty much immediately. The book has around 250 pages and there are plenty of other tips which will make your videos more interesting. If you don't want to invest in the book, you can go to Steve Stockman's web site (Google it) and find a lot of the lessons there.But since this book is so cheap (just over $11 on Bolo) and because I like to have something in front of me where I can refer to rules rather than try and remember what happened in a training video, it's worth getting.

5.0 out of 5 stars Make your next video look great.

J.J. · July 11, 2025

If you’re new to video production this is a must read. You can now shoot video with your phone that looks like it was shot by a team of professionals. This is perfect for newbs.

Excellent no nonsense guide for film novices

M.B. · August 2, 2018

This is an excellent, easy to read, non technical guide to getting it right when starting out making your own videos, whether for your own private consumption, YouTube or even corporate presentations. The author writes knowledgeably about filming technique using any type of camera, beit film industry pro gear or a smartphone. He deliberately avoids talking about cameras and related gear, so if that is what you are after choose another book.We all make mistakes and get things wrong when we start out, but, a quick read through this book by a leading professional in the film making world will make you think about your production in a professional way and help the budding film/video maker produce interesting watchable films.Highly recommended for the novice and a great reference for the more experienced. I keep my copy handy and dive back in regularly for advice and encouragement.

READ this Boo!

J.t. · November 25, 2016

This book is alot of fun and an easy read. The problem ( not really) is youdo not want to put it down.Lots of great points and information to make your video better. As an editor and videographer for a rest many years I learned some new tips. I highly recommend this book.

Très bien pour les débutants

C.B. · October 30, 2021

Ce livre enseigne beaucoup de techniques faciles à mettre en place. Il indique aussi quoi ne pas faire, et enfin quelques techniques de pro à ne faire avant d'avoir une bonne maîtrise (par exemple bouger une caméra de manière pro s'apprend).C'est théorique et il faudra compléter avec un autre contenu pour apprendre l'édition vidéo.

A really engaging 'how to' book!

M. · July 18, 2021

This is a wonderful book for video beginners. An excellent introduction to the film language that reads like a crime thriller!

Für jeden Filmemacher geeignet

M. · October 26, 2015

Ich habe schon einige Kurzfilme gedreht und arbeite hier und da als freier Kameramann. Ich habe schon einige Fachbücher zum Thema Filmemachen gelesen. Dieses Buch wäre am besten mein erstes gewesen. Denn es behandelt wirklich alle Grundlagen, geht aber nicht auf die Technik ein was es somit zeitlos macht. Steve Stockman hat einfach Ahnung von der Materie und vermittelt diese kinderleicht. Zu empfehlen für YouTube-Anfänger oder richtige angehende Filmemacher. Erst das hier lesen und dann euren ersten Film vorbereiten, drehen und schneiden.

How to Shoot Video That Doesn't Suck: Advice to Make Any Amateur Look Like a Pro

Product ID: U0761163239
Condition: New

4.6

AED9092

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Type: Paperback
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

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Imported From: United States

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Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

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How to Shoot Video That Doesn't Suck: Advice to Make Any Amateur Look Like a Pro

Product ID: U0761163239
Condition: New

4.6

How to Shoot Video That Doesn't Suck: Advice to Make Any Amateur Look Like a Pro-0
Type: Paperback

AED9092

Price includes VAT & Import Duties
Availability: In Stock

Quantity:

|

Order today to get by 7-14 business days

Delivery fee of AED 20. Free for orders above AED 200.

Returns & Warranty policies

Imported From: United States

At BOLO, we work hard to ensure the products you receive are new, genuine, and sourced from reputable suppliers.

BOLO is not an authorized or official retailer for most brands, nor are we affiliated with manufacturers unless specifically stated on a product page. Instead, we source verified sellers, authorized distributors or directly from the manufacturer.

Each product undergoes thorough inspection and verification at our consolidation and fulfilment centers to ensure it meets our strict authenticity and quality standards before being shipped and delivered to you.

If you ever have concerns regarding the authenticity of a product purchased from us, please contact Bolo Support. We will review your inquiry promptly and, if necessary, provide documentation verifying authenticity or offer a suitable resolution.

Your trust is our top priority, and we are committed to maintaining transparency and integrity in every transaction.

All product information, images, descriptions, and reviews originate from the manufacturer or from trusted sellers overseas. BOLO is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or an authorized retailer for most brands listed on our website unless stated otherwise.

While we strive to display accurate information, variations in packaging, labeling, instructions, or formulation may occasionally occur due to regional differences or supplier updates. For detailed or manufacturer-specific information, please contact the brand directly or reach out to BOLO Support for assistance.

Unless otherwise stated, all prices displayed on the product page include applicable taxes and import duties.

BOLO operates in accordance with the laws and regulations of United Arab Emirates. Any items found to be restricted or prohibited for sale within the UAE will be cancelled prior to shipment. We take proactive measures to ensure that only products permitted for sale in United Arab Emirates are listed on our website.

All items are shipped by air, and any products classified as “Dangerous Goods (DG)” under IATA regulations will be removed from the order and cancelled.

All orders are processed manually, and we make every effort to process them promptly once confirmed. Products cancelled due to the above reasons will be permanently removed from listings across the website.

Description:

Newly updated and revised, How to Shoot Video That Doesn’t Suck is a quick and easy guide that will make your video better instantly—whether you read it cover to cover or just skim a few chapters. It’s about the language of video and how to think like a director, regardless of equipment (amateurs think about the camera, pros think about communication). It’s about the rules developed over a century of movie-making—which work just as well when shooting a two-year-old’s birthday party on your phone. Written by Steve Stockman, the director of the award-winning feature Two Weeks, plus TV shows, music videos, and hundreds of commercials, How to Shoot Video That Doesn’t Suck explains in 74 short, pithy, insightful chapters how to tell a story and entertain your audience. In other words, how to shoot video people will want to watch.

Here’s how to think in shots—how to move-point-shoot-stop-repeat, instead of planting yourself in one spot and pressing “Record” for five minutes. Why never to shoot until you see the whites of your subject’s eyes. Why to “zoom” with your feet and not the lens. How to create intrigue on camera. The book covers the basics of video production: framing, lighting, sound (use an external mic), editing, special effects (turn them off!), and gives advice on shooting a variety of specific situations: sporting events, parties and family gatherings, graduations and performances. Plus, how to make instructional and promotional videos, how to make a music video, how to capture stunts, and much more. At the end of every chapter is a suggestion of how to immediately put what you’ve learned into practice, so the next time you’re shooting you’ll have begun to master the skill. Steve’s website (stevestockman.com) provides video examples to illustrate different production ideas, techniques, and situations, and his latest thoughts on all things video.


Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com Review

"Like two years of film school in 248 pages" - Steven Pressfield, author of "The War of Art" and "The Legend of Bagger Vance"

"Stockman has packed a veritable film school between the pages of this highly informative, yet entertaining book. Very highly recommended."

―Videomaker Magazine

"Great tips from a video expert."

PC World

"Whip-smart and funny... teaches readers how to think about film and reveals the why and when behind techniques; there is next to zero tech or tool talk."

―Library Journal

"His simple-to-follow guide takes readers step-by-step through the film- and video-making process"

―Kirkus Reviews

“Stockman skipped past all the technical crap about how to use a camera and cut right to the chase: how do you shoot a video somebody else will WANT to watch? The only thing missing is a time machine so I could reshoot fifteen years of sucky birthday party and school play videos.”
--David A. Goodman, Executive Producer/Head Writer of “Family Guy”

From the Author

My hope is that anyone, at any level, can open the book anywhere and get a great idea for their next video. 

IF YOU'RE BRAND NEW, this book will start you thinking about how to communicate with an audience.  Your videos will be more fun to watch-- for your friends, your relatives, and even for you.  It will help you make video you'll be really proud to share. 

MORE EXPERIENCED VIDEOGRAPHERS will find chapters on critical principles like storytelling, structure, emotion and composition-- plus exercises you can practice to improve your video skills. 
IF YOU'RE A PRO, you'll still find enough advanced ideas to make it worth the price of admission. Hell, when I flip through the book I find things I wish I'd remembered on last week's shoot (Because there's so much good stuff here, I'd like to think-- but it could just be failing memory.) Check out my blog (stevestockman.com) for more on shooting video that doesn't suck!

Reviews:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Best Book on Video

D.C. · November 28, 2024

When people ask me the best way to learn video skills, I point them to this book. Whether you’re just starting to get into video or have video experience, Steve Stockman gives you the tools you need to create videos people will actually watch. Of course, you have to learn the skills, practice them and then implement them. First off, Steve tells you up front that this book isn’t about equipment. And that’s a good thing because you may have the latest and greatest DSLR/mirrorless camera, an old hand-me down camera or your smartphone. This is a technique and skills book. Steve breaks everything down into easy to digest chapters and succinctly explains everything. He doesn’t overwhelm you with technical jargon, but writes in everyday, understandable language. You don’t need a videography/cinematography dictionary next to you as you read this. He provides everything you really need to know to get started, or get reoriented if you’ve fallen victim to all those fancy YouTube techniques or crazy transitions. I have both the Kindle and paperback versions. If you thumb through the pages of my paperback edition, you’ll discover all the notes, highlights and underlines I’ve made in it. It’s a book I reference again and again. If you want to make videos and don’t know where to start, then start with this book. Or if you started already and need some help to cut through all the other video stuff “creators” inundate you with, then cut to the chase and get this book.

5.0 out of 5 stars Practical & enjoyable guide!

A.F. · June 30, 2025

This book focuses on basic techniques without getting deep into jargon or tech not available to the average person. Even if you're not the one creating a video, it's a good read to help you articulate about what you like or dislike about films. There is lots of practical advice and the author is quite funny. Overall, an enjoyable read that (like a good movie) entertains and educates.

4.0 out of 5 stars A quick read with a lot of information.

V.R. · September 7, 2024

The short chapter make this an easy book to pick up for a few minutes, get a new concept, and then out it down.It changed how I think about making videos. I just finished it, so I haven't got a finished video. But I shot one last night, and I shot it very differently, based on what he said. We'll see how it comes out.

5.0 out of 5 stars Videographer must have!

m.a. · July 17, 2025

Great book for the beginner and for those who need a refresher. You think you nothing more to learn and then you read this book and it gives you perspective. You can always learn something new if you are open to it. Third time reading this one.

5.0 out of 5 stars Junior filmmaker loves this book.

J. · August 10, 2025

Junior filmmaker loves this book.

5.0 out of 5 stars Great book on something most people can't do well

D.F. · June 21, 2013

I came across a guy recently who's put out a really good book, for everyone that has a video camera. I've owned a whole lot of cameras since the 1970s, culminating in my DLSR. I thought I knew a lot about composition and engaging an audience, but Steve Stockman's book showed me, like most people I had little idea about how to shoot movies.The book is called "How to Shoot Video that Doesn't Suck." As Steve says, if you shoot the normal sort of video people will get bored and zone out or leave. He has a number of solutions. The first thing is to have some sort of a plan. Don't expect that you'll get interesting video by walking around with the camera. He suggests that when you start shooting you don't move or zoom the camera, but just position yourself and set the camera so that you can see the your subject.His second point is to close up on people's faces. Parts of your video should be emotional, and that emotion is seen on people's faces. Again, stay in one place where you are able to capture a face in close up. Their expressions are the best way to tell your story.He says that newbie videographers often let each shot run too long. Around 10 seconds is usually long enough. If the person is saying something that that takes a long time to explain, cut to other shots for a second or two during this time. Almost everyone will grow bored quickly with a person on screen that shown in the same position, even if they're telling an interesting story.The other thing is a problem with light. I see so many cruise videos where the camera person starts in the corridor, opens the cabin door, and the light from the windows is so bright that until the camera adjusts you can't see anything. He advises shooting against the light, for instance if a person is sitting in front of a window. All you'll get is a silhouette where you can't see the face.I felt really bad because, in spite of my photography experience, I would have made these mistakes pretty much immediately. The book has around 250 pages and there are plenty of other tips which will make your videos more interesting. If you don't want to invest in the book, you can go to Steve Stockman's web site (Google it) and find a lot of the lessons there.But since this book is so cheap (just over $11 on Bolo) and because I like to have something in front of me where I can refer to rules rather than try and remember what happened in a training video, it's worth getting.

5.0 out of 5 stars Make your next video look great.

J.J. · July 11, 2025

If you’re new to video production this is a must read. You can now shoot video with your phone that looks like it was shot by a team of professionals. This is perfect for newbs.

Excellent no nonsense guide for film novices

M.B. · August 2, 2018

This is an excellent, easy to read, non technical guide to getting it right when starting out making your own videos, whether for your own private consumption, YouTube or even corporate presentations. The author writes knowledgeably about filming technique using any type of camera, beit film industry pro gear or a smartphone. He deliberately avoids talking about cameras and related gear, so if that is what you are after choose another book.We all make mistakes and get things wrong when we start out, but, a quick read through this book by a leading professional in the film making world will make you think about your production in a professional way and help the budding film/video maker produce interesting watchable films.Highly recommended for the novice and a great reference for the more experienced. I keep my copy handy and dive back in regularly for advice and encouragement.

READ this Boo!

J.t. · November 25, 2016

This book is alot of fun and an easy read. The problem ( not really) is youdo not want to put it down.Lots of great points and information to make your video better. As an editor and videographer for a rest many years I learned some new tips. I highly recommend this book.

Très bien pour les débutants

C.B. · October 30, 2021

Ce livre enseigne beaucoup de techniques faciles à mettre en place. Il indique aussi quoi ne pas faire, et enfin quelques techniques de pro à ne faire avant d'avoir une bonne maîtrise (par exemple bouger une caméra de manière pro s'apprend).C'est théorique et il faudra compléter avec un autre contenu pour apprendre l'édition vidéo.

A really engaging 'how to' book!

M. · July 18, 2021

This is a wonderful book for video beginners. An excellent introduction to the film language that reads like a crime thriller!

Für jeden Filmemacher geeignet

M. · October 26, 2015

Ich habe schon einige Kurzfilme gedreht und arbeite hier und da als freier Kameramann. Ich habe schon einige Fachbücher zum Thema Filmemachen gelesen. Dieses Buch wäre am besten mein erstes gewesen. Denn es behandelt wirklich alle Grundlagen, geht aber nicht auf die Technik ein was es somit zeitlos macht. Steve Stockman hat einfach Ahnung von der Materie und vermittelt diese kinderleicht. Zu empfehlen für YouTube-Anfänger oder richtige angehende Filmemacher. Erst das hier lesen und dann euren ersten Film vorbereiten, drehen und schneiden.

Similar suggestions by Bolo

More from this brand

Similar items from “Cinematography”