Why One More Camera Can Transform Your Event
How a Single Camera Addition Can Reshape Audience Experience
By Rob Nimmo, Chief Video Engineer, Video West powered by ON Services, September 12, 2025
Key Highlights:
Local Venues, Big Impact: Whether you're producing at the Phoenix Convention Center, a hotel ballroom in Orlando, or a corporate stage in Las Vegas, one more camera adds cinematic polish that resonates with both in-person and remote audiences.
Telling a Story: Our camera directors understand the storytelling styles that resonate and capture moments that matter to your audience, to actively enhance the message of the event and maximize engagement.
Designed for Your Space: From wide ballrooms to intimate breakout rooms, our setups are tailored to your venue’s layout and lighting, ensuring optimal coverage and creative flexibility.
From Technicians to Storytellers: The Emotional Impact of Camera Direction
When it comes to live events, cameras do more than just document what’s happening on stage—they shape how your audience feels about it.
ON Services's camera directors aren’t just technicians. We’re storytellers. We use the visual language of television to enhance the emotional impact of your event. A well-timed cut from a wide shot to a close-up of a speaker’s face can underscore a key message.
A close-up shot during walk-ons and walk-offs adds cinematic flair, turning routine transitions into dramatic moments. A handheld camera capturing a musician’s raw expression can elevate a performance from simply entertaining to truly unforgettable—drawing the audience deeper into the emotion and artistry of the experience.
These aren’t just production tricks—they’re tools for engagement. They help your audience stay connected, whether they’re in the room or watching remotely.
The Power of One More
Sometimes, the difference between a forgettable session and a memorable one is just one more manned studio camera.
That extra angle can:
- Capture nuance: A tight shot on a speaker’s face during a pivotal moment can make the message land more powerfully.
- Add energy: Adding one more camera—strategically placed for reaction shots, sweeping stage views, or behind-the-scenes glimpses—amplifies that energy. It captures the spontaneous applause, the tearful smiles, and the electric atmosphere from multiple angles, making the audience feel like they’re right there in the moment, not just watching it.
- Showcase your investment: A wide, moving shot reveals the full scope of your beautifully designed set—something a static camera can’t do justice.
It’s Not Just Coverage. It’s Craft.
Every camera angle is a choice. Every cut has a purpose. And every additional camera gives us more creative tools to tell your story, sell your message, and keep your audience engaged.
So when you’re planning your next event, consider what one more camera could do—not just for your production value, but for your audience’s experience.
Manned Studio Cameras vs. PTZ Cameras: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Manned Studio Cameras | PTZ Cameras |
|---|---|---|
| Creative Control | High – operated by skilled camera ops who can anticipate and react in real time | Moderate – controlled remotely, with limited ability to respond to spontaneous moments |
| Shot Variety | Wide range – from dynamic dolly moves to tight emotional close-ups | Limited – fixed positions and slower transitions |
| Audience Engagement | Strong – helps tell a story and build emotional connection | Functional – provides coverage but less cinematic impact |
| Best For | Keynotes, entertainment, awards, high-impact storytelling | Breakout sessions, static coverage, budget-conscious events |
Q&A: One More Camera—Is It Worth It?
Q 1: How do I know if my event needs an extra camera?
If your event includes emotional storytelling, live entertainment, or high-profile speakers, one more camera can dramatically enhance audience connection and production value.
Q 2: Will adding a camera disrupt my budget or setup?
Not necessarily. We work with your budget and venue specs to recommend the most impactful camera additions—often with minimal footprint and maximum effect.
Q 3: Can I use both PTZ and manned cameras together?
Absolutely. A hybrid approach lets you balance coverage and creativity. PTZs handle static shots, while manned cameras bring your story to life.
Rob Nimmo, Chief Video Engineer
Rob Nimmo has worked in live video production for 20 years. He is currently the Chief Video Engineer at Video West powered by ON Services, where he designs and builds all of the video production systems and helps advise clients on the best equipment to achieve their vision.
Main: 480.222.3180 | Direct: 480.440.3084
robnimmo@videowestinc.com