Tips and Tricks for Recording Video at Home

April 28, 2021

Digital Marketing, Video Production

Below is a list of tips and tricks for recording video at home as well as setting up polished-looking ‘sets’ for virtual meetings and live streams!

This list was put together by our video production team.

Recording Video on a Mobile Device:

There are a few best practices for recording on a mobile device, such as an iPhone, that you can do to make sure you are getting the best quality out of your recording.

  • Go into your phone camera settings and locate your video resolution settings. There, you should be able to select from a few options. 1920×1080 should be the minimum that you select.
  • Make sure you are changing the settings for which ever camera on your phone you will be using, whether that is the front facing, or rear facing.
  • If your phone is capable of filming in 4K, do it! 
  • Unless otherwise directed, always film while holding your phone horizontally. This will allow for more room on the sides for video and will eliminate the black borders.
  • Note: Always consider where your target audience will be watching. For example, if you are creating a video for Facebook or Instagram, you would want to use the portrait setting. If you are working with a video editor, ask them which direction is best for the project you are working on. 
  • Using a tripod or setting down your device on a stable surface will keep the camera still and leave you free to talk with your hands.

Recording Video on a Laptop or Desktop Computer:

  • Laptop and computer microphones are not always the best quality. If you have access to a USB microphone, that is an easy way to increase your recording quality.
  • If you do not have access to a USB microphone, using headphones with a microphone will work also.
  • When in a virtual meeting or recording session, using both the internal microphone and speakers can sometimes cause feedback. If you are experiencing this, turn down the volume of your speakers.
  • If you are still experiencing feedback after this, use headphones during your recording session or meeting.
  • If you are doing a remote recording or virtual meeting call, connect to the internet using an ethernet connection to ensure the best signal possible.

Creating a Beautiful Set

You can create a beautiful and polished set in your own home quite easily and without any professional gear!

  • A nice bright room with natural light is ideal for filming.
  • When choosing where to sit, make sure the background is free of distracting elements.
    • Filming in front of a bookshelf is great and provides a homey, personal touch. You can also choose a simple wall with a piece of nice art, or even have some furniture in your background
    • Filming in front of an opening or doorway where people may walk past is not recommended for both sound, and aesthetic.
  • Natural lighting from a window is soft and great for getting even lighting without harsh shadows.
  • Phone cameras and webcams use automatic lighting settings and a window behind you will create a silhouette and confuse the camera.
  • If you must have a window behind you, close the curtains.
  • Avoid lighting from directly over your head or from under your chin. This will create harsh shadows.
  • Light your face with a desk/table lamp if you feel like you are not getting enough light.
  • Having a plant nearby is a quick and easy way to make an emptier area look more inviting.

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