Video Resources & Best Practices

Filming considerations (In person events)

  • Have gear charged up with full batteries

  • Find a quiet place to film interview (as quiet as possible)

  • Place the subject in a well lit place

  • No windows in background if possible

  • Windows should be behind or next to camera, so they light the subject

  • Have subject sign release form on Easy Release Pro

  • Test audio with headphones/earbuds while subject fills out release form

  • Make sure the mic is not picking up noise from clothes or hair

  • Film the subject saying and spelling their full name

  • Allow 3-5 seconds of silence after subject answers a question

  • Film B-Roll of the subject/event

After filming/Post Production

  • Upload video, photos and/or audio

  • Upload partner logos

  • Upload any graphics, flyers

  • Include blurb of what is in the video

  • Include editing instructions

  • Indicate where the video will be shown/published

Apps

iOS/iphones

iMovie

  • Free for most iphone users

  • Fast way to edit your videos

Adobe Rush

  • Great features, works with Adobe Suite

  • Can export straight to youtube

QUIK

  • Free

  • Fast way to edit videos

  • Limited controls

  • Works great with Gopros

Android Phones

Adobe Rush

  • Great features, works with Adobe Suite

  • Can export straight to youtube

QUIK

  • Free

  • Fast way to edit videos

  • Limited controls

  • Works great with Gopros

KINEMASTER

  • Paid, monthly option

  • Advanced features

  • Also adds controls for the smartphone’s camera

  • Exports directly to Youtube

Video-editing software

Adobe Premiere

  • Price: $20.99/mo (membership)

  • Industry standard program

  • The most amount of control to edit video

HitFilm Express and VSDC are popular

  • They both have free versions

Pinnacle Studio

  • About $50

PowerDirector

  • They have a free download to try it out

Davinci Resolve - Free Download

  • The most 'pro' free editing software. More complicated though, sometimes overkill

Equipment

AUDIO

Rode smartLav+ Lavalier Condenser Microphone SMARTLAV

  • Price: $57.99

  • Records audio directly to smartphone

  • Lavalier design

  • Helps cut down external noise

Zoom Handy Recorder H1N

  • Price: $99 - $119

  • Audio must be synced up when editing video

  • Great for handheld recording or mounted on stand

  • Can be used with or without an extra mic

Back to top Top Samson - G-Track Pro USB Microphone

  • Price: $119-$150

  • For laptops and desktops only

  • Best for virtual meetings and recording on your laptop or desktop

  • Has an additional ¼” input to record an instrument and your voice at the same time

Tripod & Stabilization

Manfrotto Compact Action Aluminium tripod with hybrid head

  • Price $74.99

  • Light weight

  • Sturdier than most light tripods

  • Compact design

  • Does not come with smartphone mount

Mefoto Sidekick 360 Plus Titanium Smartphone Tripod Adapter

  • Price: $42.99

  • Sturdier than plastic mounts that can be found online for cheaper

OR

DJI Osmo Mobile 3 Smartphone Gimbal (With app for automatic tracking)

  • Price: $119-$139

  • Automatic tracking helps keep you in the shot

  • Useful for shooting outside

  • Great for On-location Interviews

  • Can be mounted on tripod or tabletop tripod

SUNPAK FlexPodDX Tabletop Tripod for Compact Cameras, Smartphones and GoPro

  • Price: $17.99

  • Use with Osmo Mobile 3 gimbal

  • Small lights can also be mounted on the tripod if they have a ¼” thread

Lighting

Westcott 18in Bi-Color LED Ring Light Kit with Batteries & Stand

  • Price: $199

  • Better quality light coming from larger 18” source

  • Local business

  • Includes stand (smartphone mount not included)

ikan iLED-MA Micro Flood Light

  • Price: $30-$35

  • Rechargable

  • Can mount on camera or clamp

  • Dimmable

GVM Bi-Color LED Ring Light (14") GVM-HD-14S B&H Photo

  • Price: $79

  • Includes stand with smartphone mount

  • Online order

GVM 560AS Bi-Color LED 3-Panel Kit GVM-560AS3L B&H Photo Video

  • Price: $296.84

  • Great entry level 3 point light kit

  • More control of your lighting

  • Higher production value look

Extra Resources

Make Your Youtube Videos High-Quality Using These 4 Simple Tips

Vlogging: The Basics of Audio and Sound

4 Essential Elements of a Basic Vlogging Setup

Audio for Film 101: A Vlogger's Guide to Better Sound

The Best Lights and Lighting Equipment for YouTube Videos