Five things to consider when filming video at home

It’s hard to predict what things will stay with us as the pandemic subsides. Certainly, there is no doubt that video and video conferencing will be two of them. Video conferencing app Lifesize conducted a survey that found 90% of us find it easier to get our point across when we are seen. Here are five things to consider when filming video at home.

The ease with which video content can be produced has driven a massive increase in the quantity you can find online. But it isn’t all very high quality.

To start you just need a laptop or phone and some decent light. The pointers below will help you improve your videos. However, we can’t guarantee that your children or pets won’t barge in!

Setting up the shot

Find somewhere comfy where you won’t easily be disturbed. For example, avoid traffic noises, other people or aeroplanes flying overhead.
Prop up your device on a steady surface and as level with your eye height as possible. If you place it too low the viewer can look up your nose. By contrast, too high and you will strain your neck.
Be sure to remove anything in the background you don’t want in shot.

Light source

Choose a well lit spot. Usually natural light is fine.
Position the light source in front of you, not behind.
Don’t film outside in the full sun unless there is sufficient shade.

Filming

Always film in landscape when you use your phone. That is to say, turn your phone on it’s side. Landscape is the most common way to watch a video. If you filming in portrait mode, black bands appear on either side of the footage.
Test your shot out. Position yourself in the centre. As a result, if you do accidentally move around you will not move out of the frame.

Use notes

Use notes to help the flow of the video and therefore avoid awkward pauses. Don’t over-rehearse. Remember you can deviate from the script if you want.
Have your notes visible on the screen of the computer you use to film. Similarly, you can put a sheet of paper in front of you. Importantly, keep the notes at eye level – this will mean you don’t need to look down to read them.

Involve others

Ask colleagues to give you objective feedback on how you come across on camera. But do not get disheartened, pretty much everyone dislikes how they look and sound on screen!
Brief key participants to avoid embarrassing silences in an interview or discussion you record on a Zoom call.

For more a different look at the five things to consider when filming video at home watch our video below.