Basic Setup

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Easy video production tips for beginners, focusing on lighting, sound, and camera setup basics.

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Optimize Video Length for Platform

Optimize Video Length for Platform

Adjust the length of your video depending on where it's being published. Shorten for social media and extend for platforms like YouTube or your website.

For best results, research platform-specific best practices and use tools like Vidyard or Wistia for length optimization.

Lower Thirds for Key Information

Graphics & Text

Lower Thirds for Key Information

Add lower thirds to introduce key speakers and display important information such as donation details.

For best results, use simple, readable fonts and include donation links or QR codes in the lower thirds.

Wide Shot Composition

Wide Shot Composition

Use wide shots to establish context and show the environment around your subject.

For best results, use a wide-angle lens or step back to capture more of the scene.

Ambient Sound Setup

Ambient Sound Setup

Capture ambient sound to create a sense of space and atmosphere in your scene.

For best results, use a handheld recorder or a microphone positioned away from direct noise sources.

Proper Lighting for Historic Buildings

Proper Lighting for Historic Buildings

Use soft, even lighting to highlight the unique features of historic buildings without harsh shadows.

For best results, use softboxes or diffused lighting to avoid overpowering architectural features.

Architectural Detail Shots

Architectural Detail Shots

Focus on architectural details like textures and patterns to enhance visual storytelling.

For best results, use a macro lens or zoom to capture intricate details.

Pre-Interview Research

Production Planning

Pre-Interview Research

Research your interviewee’s background to ask insightful, engaging questions and guide the conversation.

For best results, use research tools like Milanote for notes and Otter.ai for transcription.

Handheld Camera Techniques

Camera Movement

Handheld Camera Techniques

Use handheld shots for a raw, realistic documentary feel, but avoid excessive shaking.

For best results, use a handheld stabilizer or shoulder rig to minimize camera shake.

B-Roll Planning

Production Planning

B-Roll Planning

Plan B-roll shots that support your narrative and add visual context to your documentary.

For best results, create a shot list to capture the most relevant supplemental footage.

Interview Framing Basics

Interview Techniques

Interview Framing Basics

Frame your interview subject using the rule of thirds for a balanced, professional look.

For best results, use a tripod and a mid-range lens for steady, clear shots.

White Balance Adjustment

White Balance Adjustment

Adjust your camera's white balance to match the lighting conditions and achieve accurate colors.

For best results, use your camera’s auto white balance or set it manually based on the lighting.

Basic Sound Setup

Basic Sound Setup

Position your microphone close to the subject to capture clear, crisp audio with minimal background noise.

For best results, use a Lavalier mic or a smartphone microphone close to the subject.

Natural Light Optimization

Natural Light Optimization

Maximize natural light by shooting during the golden hour for soft, warm lighting.

For best results, use a reflector to control natural light and fill shadows.

Rule of Thirds Mastery

Rule of Thirds Mastery

Use the rule of thirds to keep your shots balanced and visually engaging.

For best results, use a camera with a grid overlay feature, like a DSLR or Mirrorless camera.

Go intermediate and higher

Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC)

Audience Engagement

Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC)

Encourage your audience to create videos featuring your brand, and integrate this user-generated content into your campaigns for authenticity and broader reach.

Use tools like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to promote UGC, and use platforms like TINT to curate and display user content.

A/B Test Thumbnails and Titles

A/B Test Thumbnails and Titles

Experiment with different thumbnails and titles, then A/B test them to see which generates higher click-through rates and engagement.

For best results, use platforms like YouTube’s A/B testing feature or TubeBuddy to compare and analyze thumbnail and title performance.

Behind-the-Scenes Footage

Behind-the-Scenes Footage

Show behind-the-scenes footage of your organization in action to build transparency and trust with potential donors.

For best results, use handheld or gimbal shots to capture authentic, real-time interactions.