The Lighting Secret for Close-Ups when Blogging/Vlogging – Food, Toys, Product Shots
The number one secret to making the best close up videos (or stills) of food, toys, or any product shots, whether blogging or vlogging, is working in natural light. Take the plate, pan, platter, or toy over to a window where it can be lit naturally. Soft is what your looking for. Avoid direct sunlight. Take a few test shots to see if it’s too bright, or too dim. Do I need to move away from the window to get a softer look? Or find a brighter window or go outside? If you’re doing a product shot, a black background often works great. It makes the subject POP and avoids any distraction. Buy a...
Read MoreHow to Use Music in Home Videos, Vlogs, Blogs, and Corporate
I’ve been asked many times about music for film. Music is an essential element in a finished film; it helps tell the story. It can add life to a home video, a vlog, blog, and do wonders for corporate videos. Music that’s too strong can overpower the story, and I’m not only talking about how loud it is. I wouldn’t use upbeat, danceable rock and roll in a sad scene. Music that doesn’t work with the picture and natural sound can be distracting. Music with lyrics fight narration and interviews. Every element of a film must work seamlessly together or we risk losing our...
Read More12+ Ways to Make Great Videos (vlogs too) When Stuck at Your Computer
A lot of people are making videos — blogging, vlogging, ranting, raving — sitting at their computers. (If you’re shooting with your iPhone or other Smartphone, the basic principles are the same) You’ll have to agree that there’s nothing more boring than watching someone go on and on seeing nothing but their face. It doesn’t matter how cute or funny they are. Before too long it’s just BORING. All is not lost. There are ways to make engaging videos simply sitting at your computer. If you haven’t seen Runaway Jane’s YouTube videos,...
Read MoreLight, Light, Light
When I was in film school, my professor liked to say there are three rules to making great films: light, light, and light. Great light – soft, golden – can make good shots gorgeous. Bad light – harsh, flat – can ruin what would have been a lovely image. There are many other tips to help you shoot great home video. I hope you’ll let me know what your experiences shooting are.
Read MoreReady, Steady, Shoot! 5 Tips to Great Videos
As far as I can tell, there are no robust websites or blogs that help people shoot better home videos, videos of their vacations, families and friends. That has now changed. Ready, Steady, Shoot is the place to go for any all home movie questions. Wondering how to shoot a toddler taking her first steps? A ballet or karate class? A school play, soccer or baseball game? A dream cruise, ski trip, or romantic getaway? If I’m in a car, how do I shoot out the window without having the camera shake uncontrollably? Is there really any difference between shooting with a smartphone or video...
Read MoreOnly $7.99 — Buy it today!
Finally, a book to teach you how to shoot videos that your friends and family will actually want to watch. Download the eBook for just $6.50 or we'll ship you a paper edition for only $7.99. Get your copy now!
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