I hired a professional to make my promotional marketing video ideas and in response I’ve been getting lots of questions about:
– What equipment is best to get (what model camera, etc.)
– What software is needed to load the videos on to a web page or onto youtube
Since I didn’t make or load mine, in this case I don’t have the answers. Your ideas? Add a comment below?
– Charlie
Small Business Marketing Ideas That Work
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July 27th, 2007 at 7:19 pm
I’m rather new at this stuff as well, but I’ve been using the built-in tools that came with my Mac laptop, along with a Casio digital camera. Professional-looking? Maybe not at this point, but the more I learn, the closer it gets.
Thanks!
December 28th, 2009 at 12:39 pm
We do video production for businesses, it’s what we do. We tell our customers that there really is no way you can get a professional looking video without a professional. But if you simply don’t have the budget for a professional (it’s not as expensive as you think), there are a few options if you have a little money to invest.
Lighting is VERY important in a good video, so get some spotlights and light the area more than you think you need, because it will always look darker on the camera. Watch out for hot spots, those are the bright white spots that a spotlight will cause.
Move the subject AWAY from the background by at LEAST 5 feet or more. Light BEHIND the subject as well to eliminate shadows.
Get the best camera you can afford!
The main thing that amateur videos lack is good quality sound. You can’t capture good sound with a camera alone, especially a consumer camera. You need to get a mic. For a good cost-effective option, I would recommend a wired lavaliere mic. You can get them at Radio Shack for about $20 and most cameras have the hook up for them.
Editing is tricky for non-professionals, and it takes more time that you think! I’d recommend using Final Cut Express if you have a Mac or Adobe Premiere if you insist on having a PC. 😉
Keep in mind that simple talking heads are boring, so keep them at a minute or less.
Of course, you should expect that your results are still going to be less than professional, but the video should turn out better than the average DIY. I hope that helps!