Video production can be daunting for those new to the field, but with some knowledge and helpful tips, you can make your video content or child's birthday party look better.
First and foremost, planning is critical. Before you start filming, it's important to understand what you want to achieve with your video. Consider writing a script outlining the shots you want to capture and determine what equipment you will need. This will help you to stay focused and avoid wasting time on unnecessary footage. Remember, gear and equipment are not as important as the story you wish to tell.
Next, consider your lighting. Lighting is crucial and one of the most important aspects of video production. Poor lighting can make even the most well-planned video look amateurish. Low lighting can and will introduce "noise" in your picture. Too much light will "blow out" the exposure. Both of these exposure errors will limit the details in your production. To ensure that your video looks professional, ensure that the lighting is consistent and that there are no harsh shadows or glare. You can achieve this by combining natural and artificial light, such as softboxes or LED panels.
Another important aspect of video production is sound. It's 50% of your content! Poor sound quality can be a significant distraction, making your video challenging to watch and difficult to understand. To ensure that your sound is clear and of high quality, use a good-quality microphone, ensure the sound is balanced, and that there is no background noise. If using a VU meter, -6 is typically where you want your sound ceiling to reside.
Another pro tip is to use a tripod. A steady camera is essential for a professional-looking video. Handheld shots can be shaky and make it difficult to focus on the subject if you don't practice camera movement daily. Tripods are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, and they will ensure that your shots are steady and well-composed.
In addition, pay attention to the composition of your shots. Composition refers to how the elements in your video are arranged on the screen. Most cameras and smartphones have a grid overlay divided into thirds. Turn this on and leave it on. The rule of thirds is the most important rule of composition. By paying attention to composition, you can create a sense of depth and movement in your video, making it more engaging to watch. All our eyes have been trained by watching commercial TV and films. You might not know how to produce a good composition, but you will undoubtedly know when you see it done poorly.
Finally, edit your video carefully. The editing process is where you can bring your video to life. Take the time to review your footage and select the best shots, then use editing software to add transitions, special effects, and music. A well-edited video will be smooth and engaging to watch.
In conclusion, video production is a complex task. Still, you can create engaging and compelling videos with some planning and attention to lighting, sound, composition, and editing. Remember always to keep the audience in mind, use a tripod and pay attention to sound quality. With these pro tips, you will be well on your way to creating videos that are sure to impress.
If video production or storytelling is not your niche, hire a professional. Amateur-looking marketing assets can give your brand an unprofessional look. Your audience's perception of your brand is paramount. You are a professional, and your video content should be too.
Stay in focus,
Ryan Davis