How to Shoot Video That Doesn't Suck

1. Think Like a Director: Entertain or Die

"Nobody watches bad video. Not your employees, even if you tell them to. Not your parents, even if you send them 'the cutest' videos of your kids."

Entertain or die. This mantra should guide every aspect of your video creation process. Remember, you're competing for attention in a world saturated with content. Your audience will quickly tune out if you don't captivate them from the start. To keep them engaged:

• Focus on what interests you genuinely
• Create intrigue and mystery
• Use humor when appropriate
• Tell a compelling story

Consider your audience's perspective at all times. What would make them want to keep watching? What value are you providing? By prioritizing entertainment, you increase the chances of your message being heard and remembered.

2. Plan Your Video: Preparation is Key

"If you wing it, it will suck."

Preparation prevents poor performance. Before you even pick up a camera, invest time in planning your video. This includes:

• Defining your intent and target audience
• Creating a shot list
• Scouting locations
• Preparing your equipment

A well-thought-out plan will save you time and frustration during the shoot and editing process. It allows you to focus on creativity and execution rather than scrambling to figure out what to do next. Remember, even seemingly spontaneous events like weddings or sports games have predictable elements you can plan for.

3. Master the Art of Storytelling

"Every video, no matter how long or short, will be better if it tells a story."

Stories captivate audiences. Even in the simplest videos, incorporating storytelling elements can dramatically improve engagement. The basic components of a story include:

• A hero (protagonist)
• A beginning, middle, and end
• Conflict or challenge
• Resolution or transformation

Apply these elements creatively to your videos. For example, a product demonstration can become a story of problem-solving, or a company overview can be framed as the journey of its founder. By structuring your content as a narrative, you create emotional connections and make your message more memorable.

4. Shoot with Intention: Every Frame Counts

"Make every picture tell the story."

Intentional shooting elevates your video. When you're behind the camera, every decision matters. Consider:

• Composition (Rule of Thirds)
• Lighting
• Camera angles
• Shot duration

Be deliberate in your choices. Each shot should contribute to your story or message. Avoid random or unfocused footage that dilutes your video's impact. Remember to get close-ups of faces to capture emotion, and don't be afraid to move the camera to create dynamic shots.

5. Capture Compelling Audio and Visuals

"If you can't see your subject's eyes, you're missing most of the communication cues we use when we interact."

Quality audio and visuals are non-negotiable. Poor sound or visuals can ruin an otherwise great video. Pay attention to:

• Clear, crisp audio (use external microphones when possible)
• Proper lighting to highlight your subject
• Focusing on the eyes to capture emotion
• Shooting details that add depth to your story

Remember, audiences are often more forgiving of subpar visuals than poor audio. Invest in good microphones and learn to use them effectively. When shooting, get close to your subjects to capture facial expressions and emotions, which are key to connecting with viewers.

6. Edit for Impact: Less is More

"When in doubt, cut it out."

Ruthless editing enhances your video. The editing process is where your video truly comes to life. Be prepared to:

• Cut anything that doesn't serve your story
• Keep shots short (generally under 10 seconds)
• Start scenes late and end them early
• Use simple transitions (mostly cuts)

Remember, your audience's time is precious. A shorter, more focused video is often more effective than a longer one. Don't be afraid to cut footage you love if it doesn't contribute to the overall message. Your goal is to maintain engagement throughout the video.

7. Enhance Your Video in Post-Production

"The right music brings video to life."

Post-production polishes your video. After editing, consider these enhancements:

• Add appropriate music to set the mood
• Use sound effects to increase impact
• Include minimal, meaningful graphics or text
• Color correct to ensure visual consistency

Music and sound effects can dramatically change the emotional impact of your video. Experiment with different tracks to find the perfect fit. When adding graphics or text, keep them simple and relevant. Remember, less is often more in post-production – your enhancements should support your story, not distract from it.

Last updated: September 29, 2024