You don’t need to hire an expensive videographer or costly agency to create videos that will attract your target audience.
Most people think you need a lot of money to create videos. They either procrastinate on making content or waste money on video creators that don’t know how to promote their brand properly. But there is a simpler way of creating content and it’s by using budget-friendly techniques that I’ve used to help many brands engage with their customers.
After graduating film school and spending 15+ years shooting videos as a freelancer, I know a thing or two about how to create a cinematic video on a budget.
In this video and guide, I give you 5 tips on how to create a professional video without breaking the bank.
Lighting Setups
One of the most crucial elements in video production is lighting. Even without expensive equipment, you can achieve impressive results. You can use natural sunlight to light your videos so you can harness the power of the sun. There are also affordable LED and ring lights that you can purchase that are versatile, portable, and powerful so you can light your subject during any time of the day. I teach you the concept of 3-point lighting which gives you the basic rules you need to light a subject properly by using a key, fill, and back light. The key here is to make sure your subject is lit up on camera so your viewer can see what you’re trying to show them.
Capturing Clear Sound
Good audio quality is often underestimated but plays a pivotal role in viewer engagement. In film school, we were always taught that you can have beautiful footage but bad sound can ruin a film. You want to invest in external microphones that can capture clear sound. From lavalier to shotgun mics, you have options on the types of mics that can do a better job than the onboard camera or phone mics. Remember to shoot your subject speaking in a location that has minimal noise. Make your job easy by pre-planning your interviews in quiet places with proper mics.
Framing and Composition
The way you frame your shots can drastically impact how your message is perceived. You don’t want a wide shot the whole time or we won’t see the subject’s emotions or details. The idea is to have a variety of shots that will keep the viewer engaged with different angles. From wide shots to close ups, it’s important to vary your shots to keep your visuals more dynamic. I also teach you about the rule of thirds and head room so you can frame your subjects properly.
Dynamic Editing
Editing is where the magic truly happens. The video you write is different from the video you shoot and the video you edit. You can have amazing footage and sound, but if you don’t edit the video properly, you will lose your audience quickly. It’s important to learn how to edit so you don't miss the message or story you’re trying to tell. I teach you different ways to edit your footage so you keep your viewer engaged.
Screen Recording for Added Value
Most companies can create videos that will engage their target audience by just using screen capturing software and a webcam. Tools like OBS Live, Loom, or even Zoom allow you to share your screen while filming yourself going through a presentation, which allows you to edit on the go or even conduct a whole product demonstration. You can create explainer videos, produce walkthrough, and even sales pitches by just using a screen capturing tool and your laptop.
Watch the video now and you’ll learn everything you need to know to create a professional video. This is information that I learned from film school and shooting videos in the streets, so you’ll get the best information from a seasoned vet. Remember to also invest in the pre-production process and have a script or outline to shoot off of. Without that, you’ll be shooting in the dark. So plan your shoot, grab your camera, lights, and mics, and get ready to create your own videos without hiring a videographer or agency.