Want to be able to create engaging videos from the comfort of your home or office? Now you can produce videos online anytime, on the go or on demand with your own personal video studio. But here’s the best part: you don’t need to build an elaborate TV studio or spend a lot of money to stream videos online; all you need is a computer, a webcam, some free software, and maybe some lights. That’s! This checklist and guide will walk you through exactly what you need (and what you don’t need) to get started quickly …
1. Computer – This may seem a bit obvious, but it is actually the key element in your studio, especially if you are using a webcam. At some point, you will have to upload your video, so even if you are using a Flip Video camera, a computer is vital. It doesn’t matter Mac or PC, although I am a huge fan of Macs due to their built-in “iSight” webcam and ease of use.
2. Webcam – Many new computers come with a built-in webcam. If yours does, I suggest you keep it simple and use what you have. If you need a separate webcam, any Logitech webcam is a safe bet. The quality is good and they connect to your computer or laptop with a simple USB connection. Prices range from $ 30 to $ 130 USD. The more expensive models have more bells and whistles. Find one on Amazon.com or visit CNET.com for reviews and more information.
3. Lighting – Assuming you’re not doing anything too advanced, like a green screen, you don’t need a lot of fancy studio lighting. The main thing is to keep the light source, even if it is just natural light from a window. in front of you. Natural light from a window is usually sufficient. However, the only “studio” lamp that I use and recommend is the Promaster SystemPro Cool Light 16. I got mine at B&H Photo for $ 120. You’ll also want to get a light stand.
4. Settings / Background – Your settings are very important, so take some time to determine where you will install your camera (or computer / webcam) and what will be behind you in the shot. Some people prefer a plain white or black background. A black sheet will work if you opt for a black background, but don’t wear black! The goal of your backdrop is not to distract the subject (you) and / or add to or enhance the message / brand you are trying to convey. In most cases, an office experience is appropriate, as long as it is not cluttered or distracting. The bookstores are also a good backdrop. If you go for a plain white, don’t use a white sheet … You can usually see the wrinkles and it looks tacky. If necessary, spend the money on a good material if you are ‘placing’ it behind you as a backdrop. When it comes to your surroundings, let common sense prevail.
5. Composition / Framing: This is another area where common sense should be your guide. Obviously, you have to make sure that you are “framed” correctly in the shot, that is, that you do not cut your head or neck. Use traditional photography guidelines like the “Rule of Thirds.” Imagine the screen as a tic-tac-toe board and be sure to use the place where the lines intersect as a guide. In other words, your eyes should generally be on the top line of the imaginary grid. You probably don’t want to focus on the shot, but use the grid to align yourself slightly to the left or right of center. Lastly, make sure you’re not too far away in the shot. The head and shoulders are usually best, unless you are demonstrating something or doing something that requires you to stand up. The further away you are from the camera, the less personal your video will appear. Get closer and connect with your audience.
Other considerations:
Sound – This is a large part of video that is often overlooked. If you are using a webcam, the microphone is probably “in” the webcam. Again, stay close enough to the camera / microphone so that you can be heard clearly. Test your sound and make sure it’s not too soft or too loud. If you are using a rotating camera, you really have to stay within a few feet of the camera (where the microphone is) to be heard. The Kodak PlaySport is a great camera option if you want to plug in a “lav” microphone, which you can get for less than $ 50 at Radio Shack.
Edit: I suggest just going online to use the free web-based video editor at YouTube.com. If you have iMovie or a PC editing program, that’s great, but YouTube is good to start with. All you really want to do at this point is trim the beginning and end of your video to make it “clean” and maybe add a title graphic and a closing graphic with your website URL or callout. action at the end. Keep it simple.
Pocket or Foldable Video Camera – If you don’t want to use a webcam or need mobility, pocket video cameras are very convenient, affordable, and easy to use. I use Flip Video cameras because they are so versatile and simple. Kodak’s line of pocket cameras is pretty good too. If you shoot with a pocket camera or mobile camera, be sure to use a tripod to keep the shot steady. Regular camera tripods are fine, but don’t skip this step! The fan “Shaky-cam” yells.
Video Capable Mobile Phone – Many of the newer mobile phones also have video capabilities. The iPhone 4G, which I use, produces videos of extraordinary HD quality. In fact, with the new iPhone, you can record, edit, and upload videos to YouTube without having to touch a computer. It’s perfect for videos on the go!
Teleprompters – Finally, some people prefer to use a script and may need a teleprompter. If you’re using a webcam and don’t want to read on a Word document screen, you can find some indicator options online. I have used “Prompt!” at http://www.movieclip.biz/prompt.html. You can try it for free or buy it for $ 44. It works on Mac or PC and allows you to enter or import text and scroll it on the screen. You can change the speed, font size, etc. Personally, I prefer to use notes or an outline and not read a script on the screen, but you have to do what is most comfortable for you! Prompt is a good option if you decide you want to teleprompter.
As you can see, there really isn’t a lot of expensive equipment involved in setting up a home studio. Much of it boils down to the basics of communicating clearly and using some low-tech photography skills, like the old “Rule of Thirds.” Hope this short guide was helpful to get you started …
Happy branding!