10 Filmmaking Techniques for Online Videos
Video is a powerful tool that can be used to promote your product or service. It’s no wonder why businesses are using video more and more in their marketing campaigns. It provides an opportunity for them to connect to engage with their audience, and communicate their message. Video is an investment that can’t be ignored and one that you need to know how to produce properly if you want it to generate the desired results.
Here are some essential filmmaking techniques and basics of filming you need to consider before embarking on your next online video project:
Plan Your Video Shoot With a Script and Storyboard
The first step to creating a high-quality video is to plan your content with a script and storyboard. A well-written script can help you create an organized, impactful video that leaves the viewer wanting more. It’s easier for everyone involved if there are clear guidelines of what needs to be done before production starts so that nothing falls through the cracks.
Once your script is complete, create a storyboard to help visualize each shot and scene in your video. This will give you an idea of what equipment you’ll need and how much time you’ll need for each stage of production.
Keep It Short and Sweet
People have short attention spans, especially when it comes to online content. Unless you’re creating a tutorial or deep dive into a topic, keep your videos short and sweet. Most online ads are 15 to 30 seconds long, though you may be able to get away with a minute or two for more in-depth content.
Choose the Right Equipment
Just as important as having a great script and storyboard is having the right equipment for the type of production you are working on. The equipment required for your video can vary greatly depending on the video shoot and its purpose. Whether it’s a commercial, online marketing video, or event coverage, make sure you have the best tools for the job.
A company like Media Monsters can provide you with the right rental equipment, so you don’t have to purchase something you’ll only use once.
Prepare Your Team
A successful production is all about team effort and ensuring everyone is working towards the same goal. Keep your team in the loop at all times and make sure they know their roles and responsibilities.
Shooting a video is already expensive and time-consuming, so it’s important to stay informed to avoid re-shoots, rescheduling, and other headaches that may cost extra time and money.
Location, Location, Location
One of the most critical filmmaking basics during pre-production is choosing your shooting location.
Consider what type of environment will best fit your video’s tone and style. If you’re filming a commercial, for example, you’ll want to find a space that’s visually appealing and has plenty of room to move around.
If you’re shooting a talking-head interview, on the other hand, you might want to consider filming at home or in your subject’s office.
B-Roll and Backup Shots
One of the most common mistakes you can make as a new filmmaker or producer is underestimating the power of B-roll and backup footage.
In other words, make sure you have plenty of shots that aren’t essential to the story but can be used to help illustrate it. This might include establishing shots of the location, close-ups of people or objects, and cutaways to reactions from bystanders.
Check Sound and Acoustics
This might seem like an obvious tip, but it’s easy to become wrapped up in the moment and neglect this important step in your video shoot. Make sure you can record clean audio by checking for things like background noise or echoes before filming begins.
If possible, record audio separately and sync it up in post-production. This will ensure that your viewers can hear what’s being said clearly, no matter where they’re watching.
Check Artificial and Natural Light Quality
If you’re shooting on-site, it’s important to be aware of the light around you. Artificial lighting can create shadows that cast unflattering lines across faces and ruin a shot altogether. Natural lighting is beautiful but challenging at times, as well.
Get to know the lighting in your location and how to use it to your advantage. Depending on your site, time of the shoot, and desired effects, you may need additional equipment, or you may be able to work with what’s available.
Shoot Multiple Takes
Even if you nail a shot on the first try, always shoot multiple takes. Many things can go wrong during filming, and it’s better to have more footage to choose from than not enough.
Plus, when you’re shooting multiple takes, you’ll often get different angles and perspectives that can be used in the final video.
Post-Production Can’t Replace Filming Basics
Don’t assume that all problems can be fixed in post-production. If something is wrong with the shot, it’s best to correct it while you’re still filming, if possible.
This will help ensure that your video looks as good as possible and avoid additional editing headaches. Post-production should not be seen as a way to go back and fix filmmaking basics and errors that might have been easily avoided during a planned video shoot.
