A good video rarely happens by chance. Even small preparations in advance will improve the quality of the image and sound and reduce the need for retakes. This guide is especially suitable for independent work, but the same basic principles also make supported and collaborative productions easier. When the recording location, equipment, content, and your own performance have been considered in advance, the recording situation itself will run much more smoothly.

Plan before you turn on the camera

Before recording, make sure that the purpose of the video is clear. Think about who the video is intended for, what the core message of the video is, and what the viewer should understand or be able to do after watching it. Once the content has been clearly defined, recording and editing will also become easier.

If you use scripted voiceovers, read them aloud before recording. Text that looks good on paper does not always sound natural when spoken. If you notice that the plan does not work in practice, it is worth revising it before the actual recording.

Choose a quiet recording location

The recording location affects the quality of the video more than many people realise. In a good recording location, the sound is clear, the background is not distracting, and the lighting supports the person appearing on camera.

Pay particular attention to the following:

• whether there is background noise in the space, such as ventilation hum, or sounds coming from outside the space, such as conversation or traffic noise
• whether the recording can be completed without interruptions
• whether anything visible in the background distracts attention from the actual topic
• whether the person appearing on camera stands out clearly from the background

If you are not sure whether the location is suitable, make a short test video and check the image and sound before the actual recording.

Sound matters more than image

Viewers tolerate minor visual shortcomings in a video more easily than poor sound. For this reason, the sound quality should be checked especially carefully.

Pay attention to at least the following:

• choose as quiet a space as possible
• close doors and windows if this helps reduce noise
• check that the microphone works before the actual recording
• if you use an external microphone, make sure the sound is being recorded from the correct source
• when recording outdoors, pay attention to the wind, as it can very easily ruin the sound. The person being recorded can be turned with their back to the wind, and a wireless lavalier microphone can be placed in a sheltered position behind a shirt collar or jacket lapel

If possible, make a test recording and listen to it with headphones. This makes it easier to notice even small unwanted noises.

Take care of the lighting

Lighting affects how clearly faces, gestures, and other content are visible in the video. A good basic rule is that the light should preferably come from in front of the person being recorded, or slightly from the side, rather than directly from behind.

Remember the following:

• avoid backlighting, such as a window or bright light behind the person
• favour soft and even lighting
• avoid harsh shadows on the face
• check from a test video that the image looks natural
• make sure that ceiling lights, such as fluorescent or LED lights, do not flicker in the camera image. Flicker cannot be removed from the image afterwards
• try indirect lighting, where the light is reflected onto the person through a suitable surface

Think about the background and camera angle

The background does not need to be completely neutral, but it should support the purpose of the video. A background that is too busy can easily distract attention from the speaker.

When choosing the camera angle, pay attention to the following:

• the camera is stable on a tripod or a sturdy surface
• the camera is roughly at eye level or slightly above it
• the person appearing on camera is not too close to the background
• the framing feels natural and does not distort proportions
• there is no unnecessary clutter or distraction visible in the background
• there is no distracting vertical element directly behind the person’s head

Dress appropriately and prepare to appear on camera

The most important thing about clothing is that you feel natural and comfortable. At the same time, it is worth avoiding choices that may cause problems on video.

Good basic guidelines are:

• avoid very narrow stripes, which can cause distracting visual vibration in the video image
• avoid very strong contrasts if the lighting is not controlled
• choose clothes that feel comfortable
• remove key lanyards and other items that may easily jingle
• also consider your shoes if you will be moving during the recording

If the skin on your face shines strongly in the light, a light powder may help.

Act calmly in front of the camera

You do not need to be perfect in front of the camera. The most important thing is to speak clearly, proceed calmly, and know what you are going to say. Videos can be edited later, so everything does not need to succeed in one take.

During the recording, it helps if you:

• speak calmly and clearly
• pause briefly before you start speaking
• take a new take if you mix up your words
• take a water break if needed
• check in advance that the camera focuses correctly
• look at the camera when it suits the style of the video

If you use a reading device placed in front of the camera (teleprompter) or a note, test in advance that the reading speed feels natural and that your gaze remains as natural as possible.

Videographer’s checklist

Before shooting

• I know the purpose and target audience of the video.
• I have defined the core message of the video.
• I have practised the voiceovers in advance by reading them aloud.
• The recording location is quiet enough.
• There are no distracting things visible in the background.
• The lighting looks good in the test video.
• The microphone works and the sound is clear.
• The camera is on a stable surface or tripod.
• The battery level and storage space have been checked.
• I have made a short test video.
• I have checked the image, sound, and framing before starting the recording.

During shooting

• I speak calmly and clearly.
• I keep only essential things on screen.
• I take a new take if something goes wrong.
• I pause briefly before speaking and between takes.