Tips for Shooting your Business Video
Regardless of your budget, or the camera you have access to, you can shoot high quality video with most cameras these days, whether they’re a Canon DSLR or an iPhone. That said, there are some basic steps you should follow to get the most out of your footage…
The Equipment
Before you get started, you should probably get the equipment you need in first…
Must Have
Camera
Computer (to upload video from your camera)
Good to Have
Script
Creative strategy
Tripod (or stack of books)
Lights
Extension cables
Camera charger
Optional
Light reflector
External microphone
It’s good to have this checklist before going to a shoot, and have everything secured and ready so that time isn’t wasted locating it when it’s time for production.
The Rule of Thirds
The ‘rule of thirds’ has become a rule of thumb in shooting videos. For the most part, you probably should compose a shot using the ‘rule of thirds’ – that is, dividing your screen into thirds with two equally spaced vertical lines and two equally spaced horizontal lines. Where the lines intersect is – in most cases – where your subject should be placed. Remember to use artistic discretion when applying this method, however, as this technique is not always correct.
Keep It Stable, Keep it Safe
Chances are, you’re not recreating some old home footage and are therefore probably not looking for a handheld, shaky look. Therefore, you should have a tripod. If you don’t have one, get creative and use a stack of books or boxes to keep the camera steady. No matter how still you think you can hold the camera, the slightest movement will ruin your shot and – unless you can survive without breathing – you are going to move at some point.
Think About the Background
Never underestimate the difference your background can make to a shot. Especially in an advertisement for your business, you want to make sure things look neat and organized in the shot, unless, of course, you deliberately want to include some clutter. Check your background for debris and make it look as easy on the eyes as possible.
Madeleine Hammond is a marketing executive at Skeleton Productions – one of the UK’s leading video production companies.
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