Have any of you ladies out there ever tried to make a video and post it on your blog? If so, I salute you! Making videos can be pretty intimidating, but it’s an excellent way to change up your blog posts from the typical “read me” layout. On top of that, not everyone’s a reader (especially with attention spans getting smaller and smaller in today’s technological society) and sometimes people just want to click the play button and listen.
Here are a few tips to help if you do decide to pick up that camcorder and film away!
1. AUDIO, AUDIO, AUDIO! – I can’t stress this enough, but clear audio is soooo important. Have you ever watched a video and heard that awful, annoying buzzing sound in the background, or heard the wind roar up against the mic? Terrible, right? Know where the video camera’s microphone is located and be sure to direct your voice there. If anything, purchase a microphone or wireless mics (you won’t regret it) that you can connect to your camera to hold close to you or the speaker. Also, try not to film if there’s a lot of background noise. The camera WILL pick it up. You have been warned!
2. Whoa, steady there mate! – Shaky video is also a no go. I know there are a lot of blurry, all-over-the-place videos out there like that already (youtube, anyone?)- but why not fix a problem that can EASILY be solved? Use a tripod! Plus, you’ll get a much clearer image in the end because the camera will be able to focus a lot quicker and easier. If you’re looking to be professional, or even be able to keep the viewer from clicking away, this is the way to go.
3. Don’t overuse video effects! – Yes, I know speeding up the video is fun, especially if you’re a newbie. However, if a video effect/filter won’t add to your story, don’t do it! Sometimes it’s better to just keep a video clean and simple. Side-effects are for Sci-Fi films, NOT real life.
4. Keep it short. – I recommend you keep your video from 30 sec – 2min long, unless you’re professional. Any longer and you’re likely to lose the viewer (thanks to our short attention spans again). I know it sounds short, but it’s actually a pretty good amount of time to tell your story, get to the important part and show some interesting shots.
That’s all for now folks. Hopefully I’ll be able to show you some of our own video work soon!
P.S. Here’s a cute little video I found done by the Chicago Tribune. Hopefully, it will inspire you and show that making videos can be fun!
Hope you guys liked my first post for The Lady Bloggers! More to come