We’ve all tried to be our very own Scorsese on a DIY budget, but all-too-often we end
up spinning our wheels because the lighting isn’t right, the audio is trash, and don’t
even get me started on the resolution.
That’s why I wanted to walk you through some tips on how to get the best video quality
that you can achieve on your own from home.
Most of these tips are free, so you can get started right away.
But before we dive in, make sure you hit that subscribe button.
First, let’s start with webinars.
You’re likely using the basic webcam that comes with your computer, and that’s okay.
You don’t need to invest in a brand new webcam - the world isn’t expecting your
webinar to be produced like Avatar.
The majority of laptop webcams are limited to the resolution of 720p, but a 720p CAN work just
fine if you maximize your lighting and audio.
Side note: HD video technically means it's at least 720p, so just because an external webcam says “high
definition,” it does NOT necessarily mean you're getting the full 1080p or more.
To host your webinars, you can record using high-video quality options like:
WebinarJam, Demio,
EasyWebinar, Zoom,
And even Google Hangouts works!
Next up, let’s talk about lighting.
For starters, you do NOT want bright lights coming from behind you.
When your webcam focuses on the brightest light in the room, you become just a shadow
- not your best look.
So instead, you’ll want your main light source to come from in front of you.
To do this for the extra special price of free.99, set yourself up in front of a window!
Sure, there are some limitations depending on the time of day and weather outside.
For instance, rainy days can give videos a blue tint, while sunny days make for a warmer one.
Alternatively, you can invest in a ring light.
The round light will make the light source larger and thus softer.
Plus, no bulky softboxes or umbrellas necessary!
If you we're enticed by some $20-40 LED square light on amazon, just be aware
that they don't create the most flattering light. And you'd probably just end up wanting to
to go with the ring light instead.
Alright, now let’s move onto audio.
Rule #1: the closer you are to your mic, the better.
This also means your laptop’s internal mic may not be the best way to go.
For bomb audio, at a slight cost - I recommend the Blue Yeti Mic.
The USB powered mic is super user friendly with no extra wires.
Alternatively, for a less expensive option - you know those generic white headphones
that come with iPhones?
Yeah, those can be clutch for situations like these.
And they’re significantly better compared to AirPods.
I promise - let me show you the difference real quick.
And even more good news for podcasters: You can just use the mic in your phone!
It can actually produce great results in the right conditions.
Speaking of the “right conditions”: Record in a room with little to no echo.
Furniture, carpeted floors, and simply speaking quietly can help eliminate echo in your audio.
For many of you recording only audio, the best sound quality will most likely come from sitting
in your closet! Here, check this out:
If you’re hosting a webinar or recording a call where others are talking, wear headphones!
I cannot tell you how many conversations I’ve edited where the echo from computer audio
has created a dogpile of unnecessary work.
To avoid this, make sure to select your headphones as the output and your desired mic choice
as the input.
Last up, let’s talk screen recordings.
There are many programs you can start using today to record your screen and create awesome
demos of your product.
QuickTime is your best free option.
For a screen capture software that comes locked and loaded with cloud storage and annotations,
check out CloudApp or Droplr.
And if you want your pretty face to appear in the walkthrough, give Loom, Clapboard,
or Camtasia a look.
One last pro tip: increase the size of your browser window and extend the size of your screen capture
to get the highest resolution your computer allows.
This lets you zoom in and move around the screen without the image becoming blurry.
Sumo-lings, you don’t need a full production studio to make great recordings.
You can still get quality results at home and on a budget.
Drop us a comment below if you’re dying to learn more about how to create higher quality
videos in the comfort of your home.
And most importantly, have fun filming!