Top tips for creating video content

Duration: 3 minutes

Whether you’re using a camera, a smartphone, or even a laptop to film, there are some simple things you can do before you start that will help you to create great video content.

Watch this video from the Advance Practitioner programme, where Aran McCarthy, Creative Content Producer at the Department for Transport, provides some top tips to help get you started.

So, you’ve done your planning and now you have your storyboard and script ready to go. Let’s look at some of the other things that you should be thinking about when putting your planning into practice.

Whether you’re using a camera, a smartphone, or even a laptop to film, there are some simple things you can do before you start that will help you to create great video content.

It’s helpful to know that in most cases, the automatic settings within your device will record a video that’s more than suitable for social media. But, if you want to get fancy, you can adjust your settings. Remember, the higher the resolution and frames per seconds, the better quality video you’ll get. But, this will mean you have a bigger fire size when it comes to uploading.

My pet peeve when it comes to video production is make sure your lens is clean. You can fix a lot in post-production, however, footage recorded for a dirty lens is not one of them. Using a lens wipe is best, but a quick breath and a very gentle rub with your shirt will work too.

If possible, use a tripod, or put your device somewhere else stable to record, and this will prevent shaky footage.

If you can film somewhere quiet. It’s not always easy, but try to reduce background noise as much as you can. If you have one, then using a lapel microphone can help, but this is not essential.

Next, think about your background. Is there anything distracting or unprofessional? If you’re recording a person, are they wearing clothing that doesn’t clash or blend in with their surroundings?

Make sure you are filming in a well-lit area. Natural light is best, but whatever your light source, it should be in front and not behind the person. Watch out for strong shadows, reflections and glasses, shiny heads, and anything else that might be distracting or look unprofessional. It’s a good idea to always do a quick test to see how your shot’s looking before you start filming properly.

As with all content, you should think about which channels your footage will eventually be used for. Most online platforms will display a landscape or horizontal video, so if in doubt, film in this way, but there are some exceptions. For example, if you’re creating video content for Instagram, the thumbnail will be square. For TikTok or Instagram stories, which are primarily viewed on mobile, it’ll be better to film with a portrait or vertical orientation.

Thinking about the rule of thirds can also help you effectively set up your shot, as the way in which a speaker is positioned can make a big difference to how their message is received.

Once filming is completed, make sure you take the time to watch your footage. This way, if you notice anything you want to change, you can film it again straight away, rather than having to try and edit it later.

And finally, don’t be afraid to get creative. Keep an eye out on other popular video content out there, and try to be creative. Try to experiment with your own styles and approaches. Think of new ways to present new ideas, and gather insight and feedback to find out what works and what doesn’t.

Webinar cover image: AdobeStock by Vitalii Vodolazskyi (1)