The Ten Commandments Of Videoing Fencing

I watch a lot of fencing video. A lot of it is filmed by supportive parents, friends, and various other non-fencers, and many of them make the same mistakes. We should thank these people, but also help them do better. Follow these rules and you will be happy, healthy, and have watchable footage.

1. No Portrait Mode

I know it’s popular on Tiktok and Instagram. Fencing is a side-to-side sport. Film it in landscape mode.

2. Keep Both Fencers in the Shot at All Times

Both fencers matter. You can’t tell if someone is fencing well if you can’t see what their opponent is doing.

3. Keep the Box in the Shot

The box is the thing in the middle with the lights and noises. If you can’t keep it in the shot, pan to it whenever it goes off.

4. Keep the Ref in the Shot

The ref decides who gets the point. If you can't keep them in the shot, pan to them whenever the box goes off. You can do these last two together.

5. Get Close

If you stand too far away, people will stand in front of you, and you'll miss everything. Don't be afraid to bump shoulders a bit.

6. Upload to Youtube

All other video sharing options are strictly worse. If you’re worried about privacy, you can mark it as unlisted, then only people with the link will be able to see it.

7. Shoot in at Least 720p

Nobody wants to watch something filmed on a potato. If it’s not at least 720p, you can’t see the blades.

8. Film From The Open Side

Your fencer’s torso will be open to one side. If at all possible, film so that side is facing you.

9. Don’t Stop Filming After Every Touch

It’s jarring to watch. Instead, continue recording for the whole period, then stop for the minute break.

10. Film From The Center

Or as close as you can get without the ref being in the way. The skewed perspective from the endlines makes it difficult to see the actions.