Skip to end of metadata
Go to start of metadata

You are viewing an old version of this page. View the current version.

Compare with Current View Page History

« Previous Version 15 Next »

Best Practices

  • Limit video recordings to 6-8 minutes
  • Segment lengthy topics sub-points to record separately
  • Write a script for prepared content
  • Determine key points; deliver them succinctly and concisely
  • Extend longevity for lecture content intended for reuse by avoiding: references to current events, dates, page numbers, the weather, etc.

Examples of Use:

  • Course lecture content
  • Guest speakers
  • Interviews
  • Discussions
  • Demonstrations
  • Weekly communication
  • Summaries of forums, assignments, blog posts, wikis, etc.
  • Audio contributions to assignments or forums by students

Apps and Equipment

Setting

  • Ensure that the place you are shooting will remain quiet
  • Avoid settings that easily echo
  • Static backgrounds make cuts between clips less distracting

Lighting

  • When recording videos of people, softer light sources are generally best
  • Large light sources create softer light
  • Windows are prone to vary in intensity due to cloud and sun movement, so avoid using them as a light source unless you are confident that the light will remain steady throughout your recording session
  • Don't use different color temperatures to light the same subject (e.g., using a tungsten bulb with daylight)
  • Never position light sources lower than the subject's face

Video

  • Position camera at or slightly lower than the subject's eye level
  • Placing the camera closer to the subject will make the video seem less formal. However, if the camera is too close, the subject's face may appear distorted
  • Allow for a couple seconds of silence between clips you may be editing together

Sound

  • Place microphone as close to the subject as possible, but at least a few inches away from their mouth
  • Even light wind can negatively affect sound quality
  • Microphone windscreens can help block out wind interference
  • An audio recorder or smartphone may be used instead of a wireless microphone if the camera has no external microphone jack. However, this method requires syncing the audio with the video in an editing program
  • Make sure audio quality and levels are good by recording a quick test and listening back to it
  • Drink water before recording to avoid mouth noises
  • Silence all devices
  • See Tips for Recording Audio for more ideas, especially for webcam recordings

Tips for Recording From Home:

  • Find a quiet room to record in
  • Record during a quiet time of the day or night
  • Avoid other voices, traffic noises, barking dogs, kitchen noises, etc.
  • Mute phones and other devices with alarms or audible signals
  • Select a room that has a significant amount of "softness" which will reduce echos. This includes items like:
    • carpeting
    • drapes
    • furniture upholstered with fabric
    • bedding
    • clothing
    • pillows
  • No labels