How to Shoot Professional-Quality Video
From social media platforms to corporate presentations, video has the power to engage and captivate audiences like no other medium. In fact, last year, 82% of global internet traffic came from video streaming and downloads, and a recent study showed that 91% of consumers want to see more video content. You can create your own videos but there are some essential tips to keep in mind.
Plan your shots
Create ideas around your shots, and start planning your shots by creating storyboards. Visualize the sequence of shots you want to capture, and think about the composition, framing, and camera movements. Remember every shot matters. Shots make sequences, and sequences build stories. A well-thought-out list will help you stay organized and ensure that you capture the footage you need. Don’t be afraid to overshoot. Once you begin shooting, if you see a good shot, take it! Take time to play with the composition and framing. Keep a steady camera with the idea of the story always in mind.
Invest in good equipment
While it’s true that you can create great videos with a smartphone, investing in quality equipment will significantly enhance the overall production value. Consider getting a professional-grade camera, tripod, external microphone, and lighting equipment. These tools will give you more control over the image and sound quality, resulting in a more polished final product. Keep in mind that you want everything to look good and sound good. Practice with the equipment as much as you can, so it becomes a muscle memory. Go through the manual and know how to push the technical aspects of the camera.
Master lighting techniques
Lighting is one of the most important aspects of video production. Learn how to use natural light to your advantage and invest in artificial lighting equipment for controlled environments. Three-point lighting is vital. Understand that the key light is your most important light with the fill and back light filling in the balance of the shot. Don’t be afraid to move lights to get the effect you’re looking for. Experiment with different lighting setups to achieve the desired mood and atmosphere. If there is a person on camera, focus on their eyes.
Capture high-quality audio
Audio is 70% of video. You read that right – good audio is just as important as good visuals. Get a good microphone and get it as close to the action as possible. Don’t use the camera’s built-in microphone, as it can pick up unwanted background noise. Consider using a lavalier microphone for interviews or voiceovers. Pay attention to ambient and background noise and try to minimize it as much as possible.
Use stable shots
Add a sturdy tripod to keep your shots stable and smooth. If you need to move the camera, use a stabilizer or a gimbal to achieve steady and professional-looking tracking shots or pans. You can also use a monopod to mount the camera. Always bend your knees to keep smooth camera movements which can greatly enhance the visual appeal of your videos.
Edit effectively
Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro are good options to trim and arrange your clips, add transitions, overlay graphics, and fine-tune the color and audio. You can also use a free software called DaVinci. Pay attention to pacing and keep the video concise and engaging. Lay out your audio first and then add layers of video, graphics, effects, and colorization. Editing is like sewing. It is tedious and takes a long time to get a great piece together.
Pay attention to details
Professionals pay attention to even the smallest details. Make sure your shots are in focus, the white balance is correct, and the exposure is well-balanced. Check for any distracting elements in the frame and remove or adjust them if necessary.
Remember, practice makes perfect
The more you shoot and experiment with different techniques, the better you’ll become at capturing professional-quality videos. Embrace creativity, learn from others in the industry, and always strive for improvement. With dedication and a keen eye for detail, you’ll be well on your way to producing outstanding videos that leave a lasting impression on your audience.
Check out ICB
If you’re interested in pursuing an exciting and rewarding career in video production, ICB can help you get there with our Video Production & Audio Engineering program. You’ll learn how to record, edit, and produce killer video, while also learning to master, mix, and lay down audio tracks. To get started, contact us or give us a call at 855-896-3733.