subject: Simplified Video Production - A Step by Step Beginners Guide [print this page] In this article I would like to describe, how you can produce a video with multiple sound tracks, add still pictures and use transitions between different scenes.
Begin with a few general thoughts and preparations before starting the editing process:
1. First of all you should have an idea, what the video should be about.
2. Write out a plan, which lists everything you want to show and say.
3. Find all things you want to show including audio scripts, music and photos.
4. Record video clips, take photos and record the audio you need.
5. Copy all your picture-, video- and audio files into a project folder.
6. If the file formats are not compatible with the editing software, convert it.
7. Sketch a storyboard, which determines the order in which the items are shown, including audio.
Before you start importing files into the editing software, one more consideration. Please keep in mind that you don't want to bore your audience with long drawn out shots. To keep your movie interesting, use short clips with an average duration of 5-10sec.
Now import all your files into a project bin of your editing software.
Place video clips and photos into the time line.
Trim the video clips as you need it.
Stretch the pictures to the time length you would like to show them.
Now use your camera to record an audio track, which will be added to the original sound. To get the timing right, playback the whole time line while you speak your comment in the camera's microphone.
Add your newly recorded audio to your video project and place it as a second audio track under the video clip.
Once both audio tracks are displayed, you can highlight one or the other and change the volume, if required.
Watch the whole movie and do some fine-tuning where you think is needed.
Summary
1. Plan
Make a normal activity story. Think of video shots. pictures and audio which help to tell the story.
2. Shoot
Knowing what you want to capture and the images you need, go and capture them. If sounds or voices or graphics are needed,go and find them.
3. Digitize
Now get them into your computer with a format that your video editing software can handle.
4. Edit
Move around the graphics and video files, until you are going from scene to scene, telling a consecutive story. Bring in the sounds and voices when required. Remember, you do not have to use all of your footage. It is quite normal to edit 2 - 3 hours raw footage into a 10 minute video clip.
5. Share
Now show your friends and family the video on DVD or internet.
Simplified Video Production - A Step by Step Beginners Guide
