Video Recording Tips

Audio

• Think about where you will record and make sure it is quiet.

• Minimize audio distractions.

• Consider ways to eliminate noise from a fan or air conditioning unit, lawnmower, TV, radio, children, and dogs.

Background

• If you will be on camera, think about your background. Ideally have the camera face a wall with a few uncluttered items in the background, such as plants, books, or artwork. Generally, one of the best places in a home to record is the living room because it's usually a big bright room with nice backgrounds and depth that looks great on camera.

• Avoid bright windows or lights behind you to reduce glare. If you cannot avoid windows, close the curtains/blinds.

Lighting

• Bright is best. Images usually look clearest and best if the subject is in bright light. Soft natural light is the most flattering with light from the window shining on your face.

• If natural lighting is not an option, place a light directly behind the camera/computer and shining toward your face.

• Try to avoid lights directly above you as they tend to create unflattering shadows under your eyes and nose. In addition, lighting from below looks spooky and is unflattering. Bad or dark lighting can make your video look depressing or even ominous.

Framing

• The most flattering position for a camera is at eye-level. If you have a laptop place it up on a stack of books to achieve the right height. If you must use a phone, make sure it is positioned securely.

• When framing your shot, your head and shoulders should be the only thing in the frame. Avoid having your face in the dead center of your picture, it creates too much space above your head. Instead, have your face positioned in the top half of the frame.

Planning

• Think about what you will say before you hit record. Take some notes or create an outline if doing so will help you stay on track.

• State the objectives of the video.

• Try to create videos that have longevity by avoiding references to current events and dates.

Appearance

• Think about how you want to be seen on camera. Consider what you are wearing (at least from the waist up). Solid, soft colors, pastels, earth tones, and jewel tones look best through the lens of a camera.

• Avoid detailed patterns, bright white, and black if possible.

Presence

• Imagine your audience watching on the other side of the lens. Look at the camera lens to give the impression of making eye contact with your audience. If you have any notes or reference materials, position them high up on your computer screen near the camera.

• Speak clearly.

• Project the same energy and expression as you would when speaking to a class or to someone in person.

Practice

• Record a few minutes of your material in the exact location, wearing the same clothing, using the tone and volume you will use during your recording and then critique yourself or have someone give you constructive feedback.

• Ask yourself the how the video looks. Consider the following:

  • Can you see yourself clearly in the video?

  • Are you too rigid and monotone in the video?

  • Should you start with a smile?

  • Can you hear everything you said in the video clearly?