Top tips for a successful video shoot
Video recording requires a great deal of planning. There are so many factors to consider before getting started. Great sound and lighting are essential. Poor light and distorted sound can be extremely distracting. Be sure to test the sound and lighting before you start recording, unless you are using a professional. A great camera and microphone are key, as well as a clean, well-organized environment.
Background & PROPS
Remove all clutter! An untidy background can be very distracting and will leave a lasting impression on your viewers. Even if you are casually shooting a YouTube video your background should be tidy and presentable. You don’t have to spend a lot of money or overdo it, but be mindful of your background. If you want a basic setting to record your videos… great, but be sure to ‘tidy up’ and remove dirty laundry, dirty dishes, etc. from within the screenshot. It’s easy for viewers to get distracted by these things. Remember, once you upload your video to the internet, it’s out there for everyone to see.
Also, select and utilize engaging and relevant props, but if you’re going to stage keep in mind that less is more. Pay very close attention to your props. Should you have to re-record or edit a scene and a prop has been moved, your viewers will notice. The position and placement of everything is essential during production. I recommend taking still shots of your set to ensure that you have everything in place for each shoot.
Lighting
Great lighting is essential! If you want a good video, it is imperative that you have good lighting. Investing in a lighting kit will be well worth it. Do your research in determining the type of lighting that will work best for you and be sure to test it out before you begin recording. Natural lighting is great and can be your best friend. The best video is filmed outdoors and/or near a window.
You Appearance
The outfit you select should be appropriate for the purpose and type of video you are recording. It’s great to stand out and be unique, but busy prints and distracting attire are not always camera-friendly. When considering your wardrobe, be sure to select materials and jewelry that will allow you to move freely without a lot of noise. Should you need to re-record segments of your video, you will need to keep the same outfit on hand to wear again in case you are recording on different days. Also, I strongly advise against cutting or coloring your hair until production is complete. You may need to re-record segments of your video and you’ll want everything to be consistent throughout, i.e. same hair style, makeup, clothing and accessories.
Also, be aware of your hand gestures and facial expression. If you are not quite feeling up to recording, it can show in your delivery. Many of us talk with our hands. Try to be mindful of this during recording. It’s a good idea to review your recordings to see what you unconsciously do that you’d like to change going forward.
More Tips:
- Video editing software (i.e. Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro)
- Pay close attention to background noises— planes, trains, automobiles, the humming of the furnace or air conditioning unit, loud jewelry, echoes, sirens/traffic, barking dogs, crying kids, thunder, and any noises that can be heard on the recording.
- Use a tripod~ an unstable hand will definitely be reflected in your recording
- Appropriately adjust the camera height
- Choose a location
- Prepare a script and/or talking points
- Practice your content and delivery BEFORE your video shoot— this will help reduce editing time
- Avoid using fillers (umm, ahh, hmm, etc.)
- Put all cell phone ringtones & alerts on silent