At-Home Video Production Tips

Over the last several months, we have all experienced a shift in work and resources. A change of pace, whether it just be in the way we work and shop, can lead to a creative reset. For a lot of us, this has introduced some challenges, but it has given us the opportunity to evolve. Over here at OTM, we are viewing this time as a chance to learn. From us to you, here are some tips on creating videos from home with fewer resources.

Tweak Your Composition

It doesn’t matter where you set up for video in your home as long as the background is cleaned up. Whether you’re in your kitchen or your bedroom, people on the other end will observe your space, so you want to make sure it is presentable. If you are recording with your laptop or computer, make sure that it is at a 90-degree angle and that is it is at eye-level. If this means you’ll need to prop it up on books, do just that. This will help any vertical and horizontal lines in your background look clean.

Use QuickTime

At-home meetings have become the norm. There may come a time when you have to record a meeting, and you’ll notice that Zoom doesn’t always allow for it. Another tool a lot of people forget to consider is Quicktime. Almost every computer has this already installed, and it is great because it actually records videos at a better bitrate. This will give you a higher quality video for post-editing.

Only Do One Take

The best thing you can do when recording a presentation is to only allow for one take. This brings out a more authentic tone which is what viewers want. If you record the same thing over and over, it will become robotic.

Lighting

A lot of us do not have fancy lights we can set up or an at-home studio. So one of the best things you can do to improve how the lighting looks in you video is to use the natural light. Set yourself up in front of a window with you facing it not from behind and you will see the difference natural lighting flowing in from the window can help you out when you don’t have other lighting sources.

Posture

Stand up while recording to create a confident, authoritative, and commanding presence. You’ll also want to stand further back than you may think, so the camera angle is about chest-high or above. Lastly, pay attention to your posture. Overall, the best thing you can do for your video is to be yourself and remain energetic to make it worth your audience’s time.

Video Don’ts

There is no need to use a virtual background. It usually does more damage than good because it is distracting. As mentioned before, let people see you for you.

Of course, we encourage you to do your best with the resources you have. Improve your lighting and composition whenever possible and stay confident. If you have any questions, please let us know!