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  Shooting Tips

Shooting video couldn't be easier than it is today. You can shoot and record video with numerous devices ranging from point and shoot cameras to cell phones, and best of all many apps and editors come with presets so you can easily upload to YouTube once finished.

Have a Plan

Before you start shooting, grab a pen and paper and jot down ideas for your movie. It doesn't have to be in any certain format at this point, you're just trying to get the ideas in your head onto paper. Having a storyboard is another good idea. A storyboard is a graphical representation of your ideas for your movie. It's also a good idea to write out a script, especially if your video will feature more people than just you (and most do).

Hit the Lights

So you've got your ideas storyboarded out, you've got your script finalized, now it's time to start thinking about the location(s) where you'll be shooting. One of the biggest problems facing amateur videographers is poor lighting. There is no "right" amount of light for all videos. The proper amount of lighting will depend on the equipment you'll be shooting with. Too dark and we won't be able to see what's going on. Too bright and everything will appear washed out. It's a good idea to do a few test videos and view them on your computer to make sure you have good lighting, as it's not always easy to tell if you've got it right by viewing your video on the cell phone or camcorder that you shot it with. Professional photographers spend thousands of dollars on fancy lights, but you don't need to go quite as crazy. A few bright incandescent bulbs in the right spots can work wonders.

Lights. Camera. Action!

Now it's time to start shooting. But what if you haven't decided what equipment is best to use? Check out Desktop Video Guide for unbiased reviews on just about anything you'd need to shoot great amateur videos.

Other Ideas

If you don't have a video camera, and don't know anyone who does, you can still enter! Consider using still images in slideshow format with narration. You've probably already got most of the software needed to do it on your computer right now! Just make sure you have the correct license for any music or other content that you put in your video.

Helpful Links

Here are a few other links that will help you shoot the best video possible. We look forward to seeing your entry!


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