subject: Advice On How To Make Web Videos Cheaply [print this page] An online video is an effective way to showcase talent, advertise products or services or promote events. You don't need costly equipment or a professional film crew to produce a short movie and display it on video-sharing websites. Here are some beginners tips for how to make web videos with minimal production costs.
Many cheap digital video camera models are perfectly adequate for making short films intended to be viewed on small screens. Your camera must have a USB connection to allow you to transfer videos to your computer. Other required features are a tripod mount and a microphone jack. Look for used camera bargains on auction sites.
Poor lighting can ruin a video, but you can achieve effective lighting without buying costly equipment. Invest in at least three natural light bulbs which cover the full spectrum and imitate daylight. Put one in a ceiling light above your subject and two in desk lamps posed to light your subject from either side. Of course, you won't need lights at all if you can film outdoors on a bright day.
If you plan to edit your own video, you will need a video-editing software package. It will enable you to add text and music to your film and to manipulate the video and audio tracks. If you can't find a video-editing program to suit your budget, look for free trial versions available to download from the web. They typically offer thirty days of use before expiring.
If you don't feel confident about staring in your own film, there's usually no need to pay a professional. Many talented and aspiring amateur actors are happy to take on roles for the exposure. After all, your video could be an internet sensation. You may already know someone suitable amongst your network of family and friends.
If you live in or near a college town, there could be plenty of video-making talent on your doorstep. Students studying film, drama or media often have experience and training in areas like camera work, scriptwriting, directing or film-editing. Those looking for projects to add to their portfolios may have access to professional equipment. You could reap the benefits by advertising for student volunteers.
For basic instructions on how to make web videos, you could borrow a guidebook from your library or download an low-priced eBook on the topic. Alternatively, you can download a comprehensive eBook on the subject for a small fee. You can even find online videos which demonstrate video-making techniques.
