The Lighting Secret for Close-Ups when Blogging/Vlogging – Food, Toys, Product Shots

Posted by on Jun 19, 2012 in Blog | 0 comments

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...

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How to Use Music in Home Videos, Vlogs, Blogs, and Corporate

Posted by on May 4, 2012 in Blog | 2 comments

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...

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12+ Ways to Make Great Videos (vlogs too) When Stuck at Your Computer

Posted by on Feb 14, 2012 in Blog | 1 comment

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,...

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