The use of IMAG (short for image magnification) has grown exponentially in churches across the US over the last several years. The decision of whether or not to implement this concept should be weighed carefully.
By IMAG, we mean that one or more cameras are focused on a person or group of people (e.g., a teaching pastor or worship pastor), and the image from that camera is projected onto large screens in the sanctuary so that the congregation has a better view of that person or group. It can be a great help to a church when used correctly.
But here are some random thoughts:
But here are some random thoughts:
1. Make sure it fits the size and style of your church. If the size of your church is not sufficient to necessitate its use, don't do it. Also, anything that is projected should fit into the overall flow and style of the service. So, for instance, if your church strives to create a 'big living room', homey-type feel, IMAG may not be the approach for you.
2. Do not use the same video feed as you use for your broadcast ministry. When selecting shots for broadcast, you generally will incorporate wide shots, and well as shots of the congregation. These shots are not appropriate for IMAG (wide shots, because they would serve no purpose, and congregational shots, because they would be incredibly distracting.) Side note: NEVER turn a camera on the congregation during an invitation time - this can have a huge, unintended negative effect.
3. Only attempt IMAG if you are able to do a good job with it. If it is not done well, it can be more of a distraction than a help. Do you have a competent director who can call the camera shots? Do you have the cameras, tripods, lighting instruments, switcher, headsets, cabling, etc. that you need? Take a good inventory before you get started to determine what pieces you might be missing.
