- Plan ahead. Have a good idea of what you want your video to look like before you start. It should have a definite beginning, middle and end. You can write out a script or storyboard, or create an outline of shots you want to get beforehand.
- Be aware of your audio. A good video is meaningless if it can’t be heard or understood. What we hear is as important as what we see. The built-in camera microphone is good for capturing ambient sounds, but an external microphone is best if you can manage it.
- Watch the background. You want the audience to focus on your subject, not on distracting action in the background. Even a computer screensaver can upstage someone speaking.
- Watch out for too much camera movement. Hold a shot for at least 15 seconds before zooming or panning. In most cases, it is best not to zoom while the camera is recording - get closer to the subject and then start filming again. Medium and close-up shots are best.
- Give yourself editing space. Start shooting before the action begins and afterwards. This will make editing a lot easier.
- Don’t over-do editing effects. The toolbox offers a wide range of transitions and special effects but use them sparingly for maximum impact.
- Plan ahead. Write down all of the elements you would like to include in your poster. Think of a slogan or message you would like to highlight.
- Think of the visuals. What kind of graphic image, photo or sketch will illustrate your message for maximum impact? The poster should have a few design focal points.
- Less is more. Leave as much unused space as possible on your poster. Too much text and graphics can clutter the poster and make it hard to read.
- Look for alignment. Try to arrange text and graphics in straight lines whenever possible to make the poster look more unified and easier to read.
- Keep backgrounds simple. A light colour is best. Contrast with bolder text that will maximize the contrast and make it easier to read. If using a photo as the background, make sure text is in contrasting colour that will stand out. Be careful that the poster doesn’t get cluttered.