Recording lectures can make it easier for students to review the material or find out about anything they might have missed if they were out sick. When it is time to record the lectures, having everything set up right can make the task a lot easier. Use the following to help optimize the studio and make sure the videos have everything they need.
Create a Recording Studio
It is a good idea to create a recording studio where everything can be set up and ready to use. A studio to record lectures can be a temporary space, taken down at the end of the recording session, or a more permanent space, depending on what’s needed and available. The main goals are space for recording and a quiet area with no interruptions.
Consider the Camera’s View
Take the time to set up the camera to see what it can see and what the students will see when they review the lectures. It may be a good idea to zoom out or step back a little bit to get a better picture, or to zoom in if too much of the background can be seen. Figure out the best settings and save them so they can be used again.
Use a Microphone
Someone who is sitting or standing away from the camera, even if it’s only a couple of feet, isn’t going to be easy to hear. It is important to get a microphone to use, so that the students will be able to clearly hear what is being said in the recording.
Use a Tripod for Recording
A shaky camera can distract from the lecture and can even cause issues for those who are trying to watch it and learn. Always use a tripod for the camera to help hold it still and make sure there are no drastic movements during the recording.
Get a Camera for Videos
It may be a good idea to invest in a camera just for recording the lectures. It is not a good idea to use the camera on a laptop, as they may not be as adjustable as a modern camera. Look for an inexpensive model to get started on a budget.
Avoid Editing the Videos
Those who are new to doing videos may want to avoid editing, as it can be challenging. Instead, keep the videos to a short length of no more than a few minutes and then stop. Keeping them shorter prevents needing to edit and can help those who are watching the video find exactly what they want to watch.
Keep Accessibility in Mind
Don’t forget about accessibility, as not all students have the same abilities or needs. Consider adding closed captions to the videos for those who may have trouble hearing, even if it’s just because they’re watching the video at home and it’s noisy. Accessibility means everyone can watch the lectures and learn.
Create a Script and Practice
It is a good idea to create a basic script and practice before recording for the first time. This allows for learning what works and what doesn’t and can make it easier to make sure everything is set up properly.
Use the tips here to create the perfect studio to record your lectures and to make sure they end up perfect. Though it does take some time to learn how to record and what works for you, these tips can help make the process a lot easier.
