Putting video on your websites? It’s the new silver bullet isn’t it? Everyone is talking about it as though all you have to do is pop a video on a page and wait for the till to start ringing. Obviously there is a little more to it than that and there are definitely some benefits; however like all marketing it is not something to jump into without a clear vision or idea of what the objectives are.
This article provides a number of video production tips for small businesses. We’d be happy to add your tips to the list with a link back to your site, so if you have something to share please let us know.
• Lighting – Lighting is probably the most important part of video and photography. Make sure the subject is well lit and if budget allows you should consider investing in external lighting as well. There are a number of video companies in the UK who hire their lights by the day, so this is definitely worth considering.
• Sound – If you’re doing a talking head video or video where your subject is speaking then it is worth considering the use of external microphones. The main reason for this is that unless you have high end and expensive kit, you’ll find that most video cameras have poor microphones built in. An external microphone is a must if you’re recording events, presentations or training videos.
• Headwear – Ok, you may not like to wear headphones; but they are cool and make you look like you know what you’re doing (joke). They are used to help you to ensure the sound is balanced correctly. You’ll learn quickly that time spent ensuring sound is good is time well spent; failure to do this will often result in the need for a re-shoot.
• Be the Director/Boss/Shouty Person – Noise and interference do not contribute to good video recording. Make sure that you explain to people why the need for minimal noise is important. It’s always a good idea to add a sign to the doors requesting quiet.
• Tripod – This should be on your shopping/hire list if you’re doing any sort of camera work, without a tripod you’re relying on your own balance, which is definitely not going to be comparable to using a tripod, which is equal to a shaky effect when recording.
Tags: advice, director, lighting, sound recording, tips, tripod