Video Production Tips

I've started creating How-To-Knit DVDs. I knew like nothing when started out, and here are a few lessons I learned the hard way: (Don't laugh; I know these are like totally basic and obvious... once you've done it wrong!)

1. Note down exactly what you are wearing so you can duplicate it in subsequent tapings. And remember to remove your watch! I had to change glasses so that I didn't look snooty because I have to look down my nose to see close-up scripts and stuff through the bottom of my tri-focals.

2. Set up a background that sets the right mood and does not take attention away from you and your message. For me, it was a light-green sheet hung in front of my filing cabinets.

3. Note the exact lighting you have so it also can be reliably duplicated later on. Lamps on/off, location of said lamps, daylight or no, etc.

4. I don't want to sound rehearsed so I didn't use a script. But I did follow verrry carefully an in-depth outline.

5. It is much better to record many short clips instead of trying for huge long clips. Makes editing and arranging said clips much easier.

6. Be very conservative with scene changers such as fade in-fade outs, dissolving, etc.

7. I chose to record my own music since I can play harp, fiddle and flute (somewhat). But I still had to watch for copyright issues, so I carefully chose melodies that have been handed down for like forever, such as English Dance tunes, Morris dance tunes, etc.

Hope this helps. Like I said, pretty basic stuff-but for a rank beginner...

Dot

Hey Mike,
It also sounds like your camera may be set on manual focus. Look for that setting and change it to auto if you want an easy set up.