Recording video

Equipment

For the majority of videos you'll be creating, the webcam built into your laptop is fine for the quality you will need. If you need a separate camera you can record using your phone, or request to borrow filming equipment from La Trobe by contacting the ASSC Equipment Loans and Bookings at this online form: Book equipment or email them at ASSC.loans@latrobe.edu.au
Do a test run with your equipment to make sure you know how it all works ahead of time.
Make sure your equipment is fully charged and you have the memory space for your footage.

Light yourself or your subject from the front and slightly to the side. This keeps your subject clear and minimises distracting and unflattering shadows.
Don't have a light source like a window behind your subject. This will throw the lighting balance off and your subject will be too dark.
Don't rely on overhead lights, as they will cast unflattering shadows.
Natural light is best for filming, but if you can't access natural light where you're filming, a lamp or a ring light can be used instead.

Try to avoid busy backgrounds. Not only are these distracting for viewers, but they may trip auto-focus on your camera and make your main subject out of focus.
If filming in your home, be sure to protect your digital identity by not having personal information visible in the background.
If screen recording, turn off applications that may send notifications while you're recording.

If doing a talking head where you're talking directly to the camera, be sure to keep your camera lens at eye level or slightly above eye level. This makes it look like you're speaking directly to the audience, so increases engagement, but also avoids unflattering or distracting angles.
If using a script, keep it at eye level so it looks like you're speaking directly to the audience instead of reading off of your script. This increases viewer engagement.
Be sure your camera is on a stable foundation. This can be a tripod, or a pile of books. Just a long as it doesn't wobble while you're filming, as this can be very disorientating and annoying for viewers.
If speaking directly to the camera, you should be in the centre of the frame. Try and keep your head in the upper third of the frame, so you are visible from the chest up.