Video & Vodcast Creation: 10 Tips for Success

• Use the best recording equipment you can get your hands on.
• Use a tripod if possible. Your video will be mostly be viewed at a low resolution so you should try to retain as much clarity as you can.
• Try to avoid too much fast zooming in and out or panning (moving from side to side), again, because of low screen resolutions.
• Plan what you're going to record in advance. If you're going to speak, at least have an initial idea of what you're going to say. Ad-libbing is extremely difficult and can easily sound awkward to your audience.
• Try to avoid long gaps of inactivity in your recording. If necessary, use cutaways, e.g. if you're filming someone playing the guitar, include a shot of people listening or a close up of the guitarist's hands.
• Just as in photography, composition and lighting have a huge effect on the atmosphere of your video. Try to have people to one side of the frame instead of in the middle or shoot from an unorthodox angle. Also experiment with filming in early morning or evening light for more interesting textures and moods.
• Make the most of video-editing software. They enable you to easily add text, still images, even animations to your creation to give it more impact. Be careful not to overdo these and other special effects, though.
• Be yourself. The best broadcasters are those that are original and if you try to emulate someone, you are in danger of looking like a second-rate copy. Your originality will help create a more loyal audience.
• Talking of originality, approach your subject from an unusual point of view. Rather than a documentary about your dog, make a video with your dog as the "narrator". Focus on details, e.g. you could tell the story of a journey by focusing on the tickets, the map, the souvenirs, the dirty shoes, etc.
• Choose a fascinating subject. This sounds obvious but your vodcast is more likely to become a talking point if it involves something of interest to people. Put yourself in a first-time viewer's shoes and be strict.

Next steps:

1. See an overview of the whole creation process...
2. Submit your completed vodcast to Vodstock...