Video Production Glossary: A Concise Guide
Film and video professionals use specialised terms throughout the process of making a video.
Below, you’ll find a handy glossary outlining commonly used terms in Australia.
This glossary will help you understand important video production terms. Whether you’ve hired a production company and are confused by industry jargon, or just want to refresh your knowledge, this resource will improve your understanding of key concepts and techniques. Knowing these terms will help you communicate better with a video production company.
Depth of Field (DOF)
Depth of field refers loosely to the part of frame that is in focus. Varying your depth of field can alter emphasis on different parts of a shot. For example a deep depth of field can show everything in a shot without any blurring of the background, while a shallow depth of field can emphasise specific things – such as a flower or face, with the background blurred out.
Diffusion
Diffusion is any type of material placed on or over a light source to soften it. Diffusion is often used for interview lighting to soften shadows on a persons face. It is also regularly used outdoors to soften harsh sunlight.
Director
The director leads the shoot, overseeing shots and guiding actors and crew to achieve the productions objectives.
DP/DoP
The DP is the Director of photography, the head of the camera department. They are a cinematographer who often operate the camera or work with a camera operator or assistant.
Draft Video
A draft video (or rough-cut) is an initial or preliminary version of a video project. It's typically an incomplete or version used for review, allowing for adjustments, feedback, and revisions before the final version is produced. Draft videos serve as a working copy, presenting the main content but often lacking final touches, such as refined editing, color grading, or visual effects.