Tips for Recording Quality Videos - QuickGuide - External
Quick Reference Guide
Tips for Recording Quality Videos
Summary: In this guide, you will get tips for recording good-quality videos
Getting started
Information:
You will need to find a place to record with good lighting and as little noise as possible.
You will need a device to record (cellphone, laptop with webcam and mic, iPad, etc)
How to:
Lighting works better if in front of you, not behind you. Do not place yourself with a window or a light behind you, since your face will not be seen. It is better to have even lightning, but if you don’t have that option, a well illuminated room, with as much light as possible in front of you is best.Try to avoid lights on top of your head.
Choose a clear background. Empty and clear walls are preferred over bookshelves or walls with paintings, since it is easier to notice every move or expression without anything in the background.
Choose a room where you can close the door and not have anybody disturb you. If possible, choose a place where you can’t hear any noise. If you can hear it, the mic will most likely capture it. Try not to record in the kitchen since the background noise of the refrigerator can interfere. Turn off any fans or heating devices to avoid fan noises.
Check which one of your devices has the better camera and mic and use that one. A simple and short video with each one could show which one has the best quality. Remember that sound is as important as image
Start recording
Information/How to:
You will need to have a script for your video. Planned videos are better understood than improvised videos.
Place yourself at a good distance from the device, at least let the video show until your upper torso.
You can be either sitting down or standing up. If you are seated, avoid chairs that move, that make squeaky noises, or that have wheels.
Place the recording device on a tripod or on a steady place. Don’t hold the device yourself to avoid shaky images. If your desk is shaky and you are using your computer’s camera, refrain from leaning against, or touching your desk during recording to avoid shakiness in your video.
Try to avoid clothes that blend with the background. Instead, wear clothes with a contrasting color.
Press the record button and go to your place. Wait a second, and start (the extra second can be edited out later)
Record everything according to the script, speaking slower than you would in person.
Look directly at the camera lens, and not to the recording of yourself or other spots in the room.
Finish the recording
Information/How to:
When recording outside
Information/How to:
Try NOT to wait until the sun is too high, since the lighting could be too strong
Find shade when recording on a sunny day, but avoid dappled shade.
If possible, use a microphone
Try to find a spot with the least background noise as possible.
Follow the same principles as above.
If you’re going to be moving, have someone else record you, if possible with a stabilizer, if not, as steady as possible, and try to always look at the camera when you’re talking.