Video tips | YesVideo

So, you’ve taken my advice and have started capturing video. Now what?

You don’t need to be a video geek in order to share your clips online. I’ve come to realize recently that the average population does not have access to, nor the desire and/or time to learn how to use video editing software. In fact, I personally know a number of HD video camera owners who have no idea how to get the video out of their camera once captured. They tell me it’s daunting – the thought of uploading, editing and processing video.

It’s a shame. Birthday parties. Kids being goofy. Sports games. Grandparent’s Anniversary. Great memories are stuck inside cameras, just waiting to be set loose in the world.

If you are comfortable connecting your camera to your computer and working with your own files, wonderful. Grab your video geek flag and wave it high. This post is not for you. If you have a desire to share your videos online via Facebook or Twitter, but have no idea how to get them out of your camera to do so, read on.

You already know that YesVideo transfers VHS to DVD. Did you know they also transfer SD Cards to DVD? Most cameras record files to SD Cards. Not only will you get a DVD of the contents of the card, but YesVideo also uploads your files to your own MemorySafe account online. On there, you can easily trim your clips into usable files and share them directly to your Facebook and Twitter accounts.

Voila. Now go, no excuses now. Get those memories out of your cameras!

Disclosure: This post was created in connection with my appointment as an Ambassador for YesVideo. Thoughts and opinions are clearly my own.

You do not need a high end video camera to produce quality video. In fact, many smart phones these days offer HD. In order to shoot better video, keep these 5 tips in mind.

1) Rule of thirds
Much like photography, you can set your frames using the rule of thirds. Draw imaginary lines on your frame dividing it into thirds, much like a tick-tack-toe board. In order to be more visually appealing, points of interest should occur at 1/2 or 2/3 up the frame instead of the middle. When your subject is a person, the main line of interest is typically between the eyes, as demonstrated in this photo.

2) Be aware of your lighting
You do not need a professional lighting kit in order to improve the lighting quality of your videos. The key is to be aware. If outside, know where the sun is located. If inside, know where your windows are located. It’s never a good idea to position your subject so that you are shooting directly into the light, unless you are seeking a cool, shadowy effect. You will have better results keeping the natural light from the sun and windows to the side of your subject, but out of frame. If a shadow is created on half of your subject, you will benefit from additional lighting, but don’t feel as if you need to buy a professional lighting kit to achieve results. A simple light mounted slightly above your subject and off to the opposite side of the sun or window will work wonders. This is one of my favorite pictures taken of my kids in Aruba that shows what happens when you shoot into the sun.

3) Audio
If you are trying to capture an impromptu video, there is not much you can do about the audio in your shot. It is what it is. However, if you want to stage a video and have time to consider audio, there are a couple of things you can do to improve quality. Be mindful of your surroundings. Close your eyes for a moment and just listen. If you hear background noise, it will be difficult to hear your subject on video while using the built in microphone. If you are constantly dealing with background noise issues where you want to shoot, consider investing in a lavaliere type of microphone that attaches to your video camera. These come wireless or wired and will block out ambient noise, allowing your subject’s voice to be heard clearer.

4) Invest in a mini tripod
When I say “invest” I’m not talking about mortgaging your house. You can find mini tripods online for as little as a couple of dollars. It’s common sense that simply placing the tripod on a stationary surface results in a more stable video. I have another trick for using a mini tripod. I flatten the tripod legs into a mono-pod and hold it in my hand while shooting. It reduces hand shake significantly and offers much greater stabilization.

5) Read the manual.
No, really. Do it. Even the most basic video cameras these days come with manual settings. Take the time to learn the ins and outs of everything your camera has to offer.

Bonus tips: Memory is cheap and unwanted video can simply be deleted. As with any skill, practice makes perfect.

Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions about shooting quality video or if you have tips to add.

Tag Archives: Video tips

5 Tips to Shoot Better Video