Capturing video might be as easy as point-and-shoot, but it’s still important to think like the director of a movie and consider what you’re trying to capture and how to capture it such that the resulting video is high-quality. Here are some tips and tricks we’ve gathered over time.
For more information on what sort of equipment we recommend for capturing quality video, click here.
Sound Quality
- Background noise. Make sure the camera is away from any machine or object that might add background noise to your recording. This includes fans, air conditioning units, or even one of those mysterious black boxes on the wall for networking equipment.
- Mind the microphone. A microphone attached to a phone or camera can improve the sound quality of videos. Regardless of whether you use an external mic or a built-in one, make sure it is not blocked by a finger or muffled by a case.
- Get close to the source. Microphones are designed to pick up all noise -- small and big. That means student whispering and paper shuffling will be featured in your recording if they are the loudest and closest sounds. Place the camera as close as possible to the source of the audio you want to record.
Visual Quality
- Even lighting. The room in which you’re recording your video needs even lighting in the area you're trying to record. Make sure there isn’t a bright window or light-source directly behind the subject of the video, as this makes for harsh backlighting that makes the subject appear dark.
- Frame the shot. Make sure the camera is facing the subject of the video, and make sure everything you want to capture fits in the frame. Before recording the important 15-minute video, maybe try a 15-second test recording.
- Steady camera. Ensure the camera is stable and not shaky by placing it on a flat surface or propping it against something, like a book or wall. You can also utilize a tripod or flexible stand.
- Clean lens. Having a dirty or obstructed lens will essentially ruin an evenly lit, well-framed shot on a tripod. Check the lens for fingerprints and smudges.