The advent of smart phones that shoot video in high definition makes video blogging easy. Many digital SLR cameras also shoot in HD. Mounting your video device of choice on a small tripod, to maintain a steady shot, along with a few of our tips and tricks will help you produce an excellent video.
There is a significant difference between a professional video shoot and a video blog. Video blogs are intended to be raw, allowing the blogger a lot of freedom and flexibility when it comes to shooting and lighting the subject. Newbies can free themselves of the technical demands of video shooting by using automated settings; video blogging is meant to be authentic and real, in a documentary-type style.
The following tips will help you create the best possible product:
- Frame your subject with different focal lengths to give options for cutting: shoot a close, medium, and wide angle for each interview.
- Choose the subject’s background conscientiously; do not be afraid to add a little character or personal touch. For example, if you’re filming a how-to-video, you may want to focus the video on forms and other objects while you provide a voice-over. A formal lesson might be filmed in front of a whiteboard.
- Take some time to film from different angles in under various types of light to find which type of lighting is appropriate for the style and content of your video blog.
- Shoot your subject so he or she is eye-level with the camera. In an ideal world, the most attractive angle is a three-quarter profile shot from a slight downward angle.
- Choosing an angle – whether to shoot your subject looking straight into the camera or looking at an interviewer – is completely up to you. Most commonly, video blogs are intended to have a “first-person” effect.
- Because video blogs address the viewer directly, be personable and approachable when speaking to the camera. Although this may require practice, the more engaging you are with the viewer, the more likely you are the keep their attention.
- You can edit your video blog using mobile editing software. iMovie or Pinnacle Studio are good options.
- Add music to complete your blog. You can purchase royalty-free tracks from iTunes or other web-music providers.
