Tips for Videos

42 Video Tips

Here are some pointers and budget savers.

Turn off Date Reference

Camera to Auto

Use SP mode

Use effects sparingly

Do not use pointless zooms and pan-tilts

Close your eyes. Check for sounds. What is it? Move away or turn off. Fridges hum so do computers. Clocks tick. Got the idea?

Get as close as you can to the sound you want to capture.

Always wear headphones

Have an extra person so you can wire your mic to a long cord.

Makeshift booms can be made from the paint roller kit, broom handle,

Don't skimp on batteries

Don't use the built in microphone

Don't forget a tripod

Don't turn on special effects

Make your own steadicam

Don't forget the rule of thirds

Get more than you need on film

Make sure anyone you use in the video is available for some after shoot in case of blank areas.

Make sure you over deliver if making video for someone else

Never ever pay retail

Don't make arty videos

Always carry extra light bulbs

Always have a torch

Watch daylight. Dusk won't show up so good

Make your reflectors-Kitchen foil!

Don't use copyrighted song without permission

Make sure you have wig tape and gaffer tape

Do plan out all your video

Shoot your video on paper first

Use stick figures if people involved

Don't forget a backdrop

Keep props down to a minimum

Plan the whole shoot

Shoot but have fun. The video will be better for it.

Keep shooting as many takes as possible

An old sales message used here-KISS - Keep it simple stupid

Use a key light, Back light and a fill light

Check equipment before you start

Check wardrobe

Shoot rehearsals - check and change

Be lucky. All the best

Thats it folks.