We don’t need or expect studio-quality sound and video for most of the things we are doing! Having said that, there are a few simple things we can do to make our amateur phone/home recordings easy to listen to and pleasant to watch.
How to record
You can record using a regular camera, webcam, phone or other device, as long as it can remain steady.
If recording on your phone: Film in landscape rather than portrait mode, and mount/prop your phone on something to ensure it remains steady.
If recording on a device other than a phone: Record your audio on your phone while you film yourself, with the phone resting on a surface near you with the microphone facing towards you. We can then sync this audio with your video for better quality sound.
Visuals
Where possible, find a space where there is natural light on your face. If natural light is not available, position lamps/lights to ensure there is no shadow on your face.
Avoid standing/sitting with bright light behind you (e.g. a window or the sun), as you will be in silhouette.
Try and position your eyes so they are about a third of the way down from the top of the screen.
Be aware of what’s in the background - i.e. any personal photos you’d rather not have online, unintentional brand endorsements, anything too distracting.
Mix it up! Feel free to get creative with your setting - e.g. outside, or with something interesting behind you.
Audio
For cleaner audio, check that you don’t have audible fans, heaters, dryers, dishwashers etc on in the background.
If recording into a device other than your phone, record your audio in your phone (see above).
Clap 2-3 times at the start of your recording. This helps us if we need to re-align the audio.
Speaking to camera
Smile at the camera for a few seconds at the start and at the end. This helps us get a good screenshot to use as a video thumbnail. (We will crop out your awkward prolonged smile for the final video!).
Speak to the camera lens and not to the screen.
Check out these 7 Hints for Speaking to Camera from Karl Faase (4.5min video)
Other considerations
If referring to the Bible, send us a list of bible references that you want us to put on screen (and the version you are reading from).
