DIYers - Expert tips on making your own videos
DIYers - tips and tricks for video recording and editing on your own
Here are some tips for video recording your family members:
Be natural: Try to set up your subject in a natural setting, somewhere they can relax and be themselves. The more relaxed they are, the easier the stories can flow!
Lighting: Lighting can be tricky but generally natural light is the most flattering for your subject, but only if that person isn’t having to squint because it’s too bright! A well-lit room works great, but try to avoid a bright window or glass door behind the subject or lighting that makes for heavy shadows. If overhead lighting is dim, you can use a table lamp or a ring light for some added light to their face.
Framing and Composition: Set up your subject at a table or desk, especially if they have papers, pictures or documents they want to refer to. Add a plant or other item of visual interest to the space in front of them, to cover some of the paperwork and give added interest to the screen. Place your subject not in the center of your screen, but off-centered a bit, either right or left. Make sure the background isn’t too busy or distracting.
Stability: Use a tripod or selfie stand to minimize movement of the camera and ensure steady footage. Make sure you know how to use zoom and other features on your camera or phone before you begin in case you need to make adjustments during filming.
Focus on real life stories: Capture personal stories, memories and genuine emotions. Try your best to keep the interview going with well thought out questions ahead of time. Maybe you want to ask other family members to submit their own questions? These stories often make the most cherished memories when looking back at footage.
Variety and Context: Mix it up! Try recording your subject from a few different angles. Maybe you include some favorite photos or family documents. If you have a previously recorded video or voice message of them, you can try insert it into your video during your editing process. Keep it fun and interesting!
Audio: This one’s important. Nothing is worse than trying to hear what a person is saying over the sounds of a bunch of background noise, wind or distractions. If you can, clip your mic as close to their voice box as possible. If you are recording outside, be sure your mic has a windscreen. (you can make your own - search on Youtube.) Make sure cell phones are off and other people in the area know you are recording. If the dog starts to back, consider re-recording that section.
Recording: You don’t need an expensive camera to record. If you have one, great. If you don’t, no worries. Use your cell phone. EXPERT TIP: Break your videos into approx. 15 min segments so the file size doesn’t get so big to transfer for editing.
Editing: Once you have recorded your footage, consider editing it to create a more polished and coherent final video. You’ll want to remove all the “umms” and “hmmms” and edit out any unnecessary pauses. Add transitions, background music and maybe even some sound effects. Make sure your final product includes their name and date so you have a date for your Living Time Capsule! iMovie and CapCut are relatively beginner friendly options to use for video editing. ANOTHER EXPERT TIP: Average edit time is about 3-5x the video length, depending on if you have all the info you need before you start to edit. For every 15-20 of recorded video, plan to spend about an hour or so on editing.
A note for the person recording: Do your best to let your subject answer the question fully before you proceed to your next questions. It’s nearly impossible to edit out your own voice if you are talking at the same time as the other person. You may find it awkward to not audibly agree or chime in, but trust me, you’ll save yourself a ton of time in editing if you don’t have to edit out your own voice!
Last but not least? Have fun! Everybody will enjoy this process if you’re laughing and having fun. Enjoy this special project and remember, it’s about capturing these special moments and preserving their memories for years to come!
Ready to get started?? Get out your camera and get ready to hit RECORD!