For today’s first installment of how-tos for the Crafting an MBA video challenge, I’ve got not one, but two, videos to share. If you missed the introduction last week, I’m challenging designers, makers, craftspeople, creative entrepreneurs (and myself) to create more video promoting their businesses. Every week for the month of May, I’ll be sharing tips, tricks, ideas, and inspiration to help you create more video to promote your business.
One of the keys to consistently producing video is to have a designated space to film. It doesn’t have to be fancy, but having everything ready to go means you’re less likely to come up with excuses. In this first video, I walk you through my own set-up and give you suggestions for setting up a space of your own.
One of the key points I want to emphasize from the video is that you should just start making video with the equipment you have on hand. Whether it’s the webcam in your laptop, the video camera in your phone, or the video function on your point and shoot camera, you don’t need to go out and buy something new to make video.
One more note: I’ve since added a second clamp light to my set-up for a little more light on overcast days. It’s actually a fill light that I clamped to my tripod and aimed at the wall and ceiling away from where I’m sitting. This gives me some extra light without creating harsh shadows.
Special bonus video: gaining confidence in front of the camera
After introducing the video challenge last week, a lot of people told me that while they liked the idea of video, they weren’t really comfortable with video of themselves. Shooting video of myself isn’t easy for me either, and after shooting about 10 takes of my about page video, I sat down and made this bonus video to help you gain confidence in front of the camera.
One other trick I didn’t mention in the video is to look the camera in the eye as if you were talking to one person. I tend to look around a lot when I shoot video (a product of public speaking where you don’t want to be caught staring at the same spot the whole time) but in video you want to do the opposite. Focus your attention on the camera, and the end result will look like you’re focusing your attention on the person watching the video.
Even though I’m comfortable when it comes to public speaking, making video of myself is something I’m still getting used to. The best advice I can give you is to just keep doing it – I know my awkwardness level in front of the camera has dropped tremendously the more videos I record!
And as you’re shooting those videos, don’t forget to upload them to YouTube with the tag “craftMBA” to be entered to win a Sony Bloggie HD camera!
Linda @alamodestuff
Hi Megan,
I can’t thank you enough for this video challenge. For months I’ve been wanting to do something more with my videos. I’ve had success with my crafting videos and know that better quality videos will only help my business. Like you, I hate myself on camera and video. As a matter of fact, I tried doing an ‘about’ video this week unsuccessfully. My 9 yo is still making fun of my greeting. So, I made another product video instead. But, I will keep trying. Would love if you had a moment and can check out my channel: http://www.youtube.com/lcdemers My newest video was tagged for the challenge.
Mark
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betz White
Great tips! Another “work around” to speaking to the camera is to video yourself showing someone how to do something. I find relating to a person easier than relating to the camera.
kriket
I think it is a brilliant way to promote our craft and show what we are about. I do not like the idea of seeing myself on video but can appreciate that people visiting blogs and websites could be instantly drawn in. Thanks!
Pieces of Anarnia
Hi there Meagan! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Simple and to the point, you truly understand the mind of a crafter! Most of us just simply don’t have the time to “figure” out all of this techy stuff – however vlogging is becoming a must for any and nearly every small biz crafter’s success on the web.
Pieces of Anarnia
I have sooooo much more confidence now! The school of Fake-it-til-you-make-it!lol!
Bonnie
This is all so helpful Megan, thank you! One detail that I’m still clueless about is video editing – any tips on what to use for basic editing? I have a bit of experience with imovie so I figure I’ll start there…
megan auman
Bonnie – I’ve actually got a video tutorial going up on Thursday on how to edit your movies using iMovie – so stay tuned for that!
Liberty
I’m so looking forward to the tutorial. But I’m on a windows box (have to for work) – any windows software suggestions?
Bonnie
Oh, great! Will watch it for sure.
cakewalkyarns
Thank you, Megan! I am working on putting together some tutes for knitters. I am still fleshing out the details of how I will get a nice close up of my knitting project that’s clear on camera. The tips on the lighting are great food for thought.
mag datoing
va rapthlak hlawm emmmm………. Nice work..thnks.. 🙂
Mulugeta Mehari
I have about tow 160m2 area with all windows made glass . Can I use this for a video studio making use of the existing glass frames? I so how can I preventing the light coming from outside. Or should I completely close with gypsum or some other material?
Mulugeta Mehari
I have about tow 160m2 area with all windows made glass . Can I use this for a video studio making use of the existing glass frames? I so how can I preventing the light coming from outside. Or should I completely close with gypsum or some other material?
With best regards,
Mulugeta