There is no limit to the type of video you create – it could be just you speaking, an interview, a performance, or something else completely. Your video does not need to look professional – in fact the more amateur the better!
There are however some basic things you can think about which will mean others will want to see the final product – and, crucially, won’t switch off!
Here is a list of tips that you should consider:
Top tips
Plan ahead – Think about what you’re going to say or do before you start filming. Write a script or plot out the scenes on a storyboard.
Message – The best videos have a clear message. What is it you are trying to say? How can you best express it?
Keep it short – Videos should be no longer than 5 minutes to keep people’s attention. Youtube does not accept videos longer than 10 minutes, so that should be your absolute limit.
Opinion – Viewers want to know what you think. Try to speak from the heart or express any thoughts you have.
Tolerance – Make sure you don’t offend anyone. Be respectful of other people’s feelings and beliefs.
Cut and edit – Cut out bits that you think the viewer might not like or which aren’t necessary to the overall message.
Special effects – many editing programmes allow you to add images, subtitles or sound effects. If you use sound, make sure you have copyright permission from the creator/musician.
Helpful links:
Making a short video: http://www.bbc.co.uk/films/oneminutemovies/howto/
Video production tips: http://www.youtube.com/video_toolbox
Get copyright free audio, photo or video: http://wiki.creativecommons.org/Content_Curators