You can record video with:

• Smartphones
• Laptop/Computer
• Camera

If shooting with a DSLR or point-and-shoot camera, we recommend using the following settings:

• Frame Rate
  • Either 30 or 60 frames per second
• Size
  • 1920 x 1080 HD
  • 1280 x 720

Lighting

• Use external lighting sources (lamps) to your advantage and get the right shot.
• If indoors, avoid natural light (windows) as it can wash out your video
• Make sure your subject is clearly lit and lighting is not too bright or too dark

Always shoot in landscape/horizontal orientation (unless for an Instagram story).

Person

• Make sure the person is shown from the chest up
• Focal point should be their face

Building or area

• Wide shot encompassing width of the building
  • Panning from left to right can accomplish this
• Find a recognizable feature to be your focal point
  • Ex: signs, doorways, stairways, etc.

Object

• Go from wide to close shots
• Find a distinct feature as your focal point

Having an external microphone works best with a camera.

If using a smartphone or laptop/computer take into account these precautions:

• Shoot your video in a quiet area to eliminate background noise
• Speak slowly and clearly towards the camera

If shooting a message or update, keep these additional tips in mind:

• Have a script – this will keep you on track and prevent “um’s” and “uh’s”
• Take your time
  • Break your script up into paragraphs and read them one at a time

Allow 1-2 seconds after starting your recording and before ending your recording to make sure the person speaking has enough time to finish their sentence.