Advantages and Disadvantages of Single and Multi camera production

single camera production set up is a method of making film and video. As its name suggests a production using a single camera set up generally employs just one cameraman to operate. Camera angles are taken by using the same single camera, which is moved around and rest to get each shot or new angle. Here are some examples of where single camera production may be found in :

 Music Videos

TV Dramas

Thriller Films

What is Multi Camera? 

Production multi camera is a method of film making and video production. Several cameras—either film or professional video cameras—are employed on the set and simultaneously record or broadcast a scene. It is often contrasted with single-camera setup, which uses one camera

Generally, the two outer cameras shoot close-up shots or "crosses" of the two most active characters on the set at any given time, while the central camera or cameras shoot a wider master shot to capture the overall action and establish the geography of the room.






Here are some examples of where Multi camera production may be found in :

Live Concerts

Sporting events

Talk Shows


Advantages and Disadvantages of Single and Multi camera production

Multi Camera Advantages 

 Multi-Camera production uses more than the one camera, using more than one camera has its advantages. Using multi-camera allows people to: Cover more area as there are more cameras, Use different shots for each camera, be able to see reactions and emotions through different angles, the transition from one person to another will be smoother as they film the whole thing together than shooting one person then re-doing it to film the other person. It will also be quicker to film as they do not have to re-do the same scene over and over to get each piece of footage like they would in single camera.

Multi Camera Disadvantages

It takes longer to set up due to the large amount of equipment. Its more expensive than single camera because there are more than 1 camera you would be using. Directors would only be able to use this in studios as it wouldn't be possible to be used outdoor.

Single Camera Advantages 
The advantages of single camera (film or video) dramatic production is that scenes don't have to be shot in sequence. The final sequence of scenes is arranged during editing. Single camera shows that directors believe it appears more real to the audience. Therefore it has a greater impact on them making it easier to relate to what is on screen. Cheaper to film apposed to multiple camera techniques, as only one camera needs to be purchased or hired. Easier to set up and move around as there is only one camera.

Single Camera Disadvantages 
 Disadvantages probably most disadvantageous aspect of shooting with single-camera production is that you only get one angle at a time. you'll be spending a lot more time in the editing room. Because all of the film will be from one camera, all of your outtakes and mistakes will be have to be sorted out over time, as opposed to a multi-camera approach, where you can edit certain sequences, angles and scenes based on the camera that was shooting. The quality of the camera wouldn't be that clear or realistic.