There are three key factors that determine the quality of your video: video picture, audio and lighting. Here’s how to succeed with each factor:
1. Set the Scene for Your Video
When filming, first “set your stage.” And remember, details are important! For example, if you’re using a tripod, make sure it’s level. Are there papers in the way? Any classified information on the wall in the background
Also, make sure your scenes stay consistent, also known as maintaining continuity. This is incredibly important for post-production and editing. Was there a mug on the table in your first take that somebody moved in your second take? If you use clips from both takes, it will look awfully strange when a mug suddenly appears!
2. Use Specific Camera Shots and Film Techniques
How you film your video can make your content more interesting and add a touch of professionalism. When filming different scenes, think about the best angle and perspective for each shot.
Over Shoulder: This is a great angle to show the perspective of one person listening to another person. This technique could be used during a camera interview or a character dialogue. To get this shot, put the corner of the camera directly behind someone’s shoulder. You can use this technique with multiple people to capture the dynamic of a conversation.
Low-Angle Shot: This camera angle is done by putting the camera below an individual, pointing up. This gives the person on camera an essence of power and strength. These shots may be great for presidential figures, bosses and heroes.
High-Angle Shot: This shot is the exact opposite of the previous shot, with the camera above the actor, pointing down. This shot makes the character seem timid, lost or young. This would be a good angle to show an adult looking down at a child or a superior looking down at a scared employee who is about to be reprimanded.
Bust Shot: If you are filming a video interview, this would be the best shot to use. Frame your characters from the belly button up, or lap up if they are sitting. This shot is important if you need to see hand motion and interaction.
Close Up: This shot shows detail of a character’s face, and focuses on a character’s expression. This would be a good shot to use if a character is feeling an intense emotion or has an epiphany.
3. Record Quality Audio
Having high-quality audio in your production is even more important than having a perfectly crisp picture. People need to hear the dialogue and information to understand what’s going on.
Quality Audio Checklist:
- Plug headphones into the camera to listen to the audio feed while you’re recording. That way you will be able to hear more detail.
- Always do a sound check before you officially begin recording. Check audio levels and sound quality.
- Remove all background noises, if possible. Check for buzzing from items like refrigerators or ventilation systems.
- Avoid filming in open rooms with tile or other building materials that could create echoes.
- Make sure you stop or pause your recording if you’re interrupted by loud noises like sirens or construction.
4. Use Good Lighting
Lighting is an incredibly important factor in video quality. Without good lighting, your video could look dark, grainy or even discolored. Good light also helps remove awkward shadows and increases the clarity of your picture!
One very simple lighting technique is called “three-point lighting.” With this technique, you have a key light, a fill light and a back or hair light.
- Key Light: This is the primary light facing the person being shot.
- Fill Light: This light is slightly to the right or left of the person, and fills the area with light.
- Back Light (or Hair Light): This light goes directly above and behind the subject. This removes shadows and gives the person’s hair a nice glow.