Multi camera production is a method of filmmaking and video production, using more than one camera.  Several cameras are employed on the set and simultaneously record or broadcast a scene. Normally 2 outer cameras focus on the most important characters and the central camera shoots a wider shot and to show the whole scene.  

 

Multi camera production, gives the director less control over the filming, but gives him/her more control in the editing of the piece, as he/she will have more footage to choose from, giving the perspective from different angles.  It also reduces the time taken to film as there is no stopping snd starting to change camera angles. Multi camera productions are necessary for regular high output shows like soap operas and programmes which are on tv most days like the News and the Jeremy Kyle show.

 

In multi camera production, you don't have to reset the scene each time you want to get a new angle on the content. This means that it takes less time then single camera production. Another advantge is that editing film scenes can be shot very quickly and there is no need for relighting and setting up of alternative camera angles.  It also reduces the possibility of issues with continuity with props etc.  Multi camera production is now an essential part of live television.

 

Disadvantages of multi camera productions include that the lighting may not be optimal and there is always the risk that other camera shots may include equipment being used.  It also uses up more digital space when filming, much of which will be discarded

 

The first time that multi camera production, was used, was the Queen's Messenger in 1928 (a drama) on the BBC. This led way for the multi camera prodcution technique, to be used mainly in narrative silent films, and dramas. I Love Lucy is largely credited for developing the technique even further.

 

Directors normally have a desk of the various camera shots infront of them and use a line cut to or a 'vision mixer' to switch between cameras.  the Director has less control over a particular shot but it is faster and less expensive than single camera productions.

 

It is also the most common technique of filming nowadays -  most of what we see in the cinema and on TV is made using the multi camera technique.