10 Things to Remember When Producing a Great Video
Plan ahead so you can tell a story.
Adding a heartfelt story to your training video will help to motivate and persuade your audience to engage in what you are teaching them.
“Research published in the Harvard Business Review found that a neurochemical called oxytocin is released when we watch a “hero’s story” on video. When the brain synthesizes oxytocin, people are more trustworthy, generous, charitable, and compassionate. An association that can be beneficial to your brand” Sydney Parker.
Aim to catch attention quickly.
According to data from Wista, you need to hook your audience within the first 30 seconds of your video to ensure they stick around and engage. So, remember to make your video exciting and interesting. Be sure to avoid videotaping when you are tired. The audience will be able to tell you are just
Be confident.
You are the expert. Our Audacious Faith members want to learn from you. Be sure to show up confidently and powerfully. God has equipped you with everything you need to help our members be successful.
Keep it concise.
The average member’s attention span is pretty short. And, we live in a very fast-paced age. So, prepare your video script and keep it relevant and concise. Our model for Audacious Faith is to teach members what they need to know in no more than 21 minutes.
Don’t be afraid to be funny.
Just like in real life, humor adds to your training. Add a well-placed joke or comment to warm the audience. Let them see you are human and know how to have fun too.
Video quality is key.
No one will want to watch a video that is poor quality. You don’t have to use top-of-the line video equipment to record but be sure you use the Audacious Faith background provided to you to keep a branded, professional look. You can use your cell phone but make sure to test it first to ensure you are getting a great quality video.
You will also want to blur the background a little. When people watch videos, their eyes are immediately drawn towards what is in focus. We want them to see you. So, put some distance behind you and the background so there is no confusion for where the viewer to look.
Audio is crucial.
People may sit through a blurry or shaky video but if they can’t hear it clearly, they won’t stick around. Please do not use the built-in microphones on your smartphone. Instead, invest in an external microphone. There are a number of good yet inexpensive external mics on the market that you can add on to your mobile device such as the Movo PM10 Smartphone Lavelier Mic and a 25ft Extension Cable or a shotgun mic like the Mighty Mic.
When attaching your microphone to your clothing, be sure you are not getting any static from the microphone rubbing against your clothing. Test it out first to make sure.
Avoid wearing jewelry if it interferes with the microphone quality.
And, be aware of outside noises when you are recording.
Keep the camera steady.
Use a tripod to ensure your video doesn’t have the shakes. This ensures you have a more professional looking video.
There are many great tripods available. Here are just a couple of suggestions. If you’re shooting on a small mobile phone, consider using the 3C Smart Octopus and if you’re shooting on a larger mobile phone, consider using the GorillaPod to keep your devise steady.
Lighting is important.
Don’t count on the lighting from your smartphone to be enough. First, choose a well-lit setting for your video. Then, add some extra lighting. Look for a selfie-ring light to add more lighting. Or, choose an external clamp light. If you really want the best lighting, consider B&H Photo Video Basic Photo/Video Kit for Smartphones.
Once you have your Audacious Faith background set up, double-check the lighting and make sure you are not getting a glare or any shadows. You will also want to avoid backlighting and direct overhead spotlighting when recording your videos.
Shoot for your intended platform.
Landscape mode (horizontal) is best. Almost all videos are presented horizontally. Just think about what you see on TV or in movie theaters. So, be sure you have your Audacious Faith background set up and your camera in landscape mode.
Don’t use digital zoom.
Even though this may sound like a good idea, it is not. Using digital zoom can cause a blurry video so instead of using the zoom, just position yourself closer to the camera.