July, 2010 UPDATE
Now that everyone’s trifled with the Flip cam and moved on, we thought it was time for an update to our production resources. Much of the advice below – such as how to tell your story and audio tips – never goes out of style. But cameras come and go and there were a few things we didn’t talk about last time. So, we’re back with more tips for folks who are new to the video adventure!
Lighting…
Lighting is more controllable than you might think. The secret is what’s known as “3-point lighting.” On the Vimeo.com website you’ll find lots of great tips in their Vimeo Video School, including a nice explanation and demonstration of 3-point lighting.
1. The Key Light. This is the light that shines on your subject. It can be a camera light (free-standing or attached to the camera), light from a window, a lamp… look around. Find an bright (but not glaring), even light source and aim it at your subject. Voila. Key light.
2. The Fill Light. This light balances your Key Light so your subject doesn’t look frozen in a police helicopter spotlight. It should be off to the side sightly and a softer light than the Key Light. Again, look around and find a possible source. Light coming in from a doorway? Another lamp or window? Do you have a white board or reflector off of which you could bounce some available light?
3, The Back Light. You want a little depth to your shot, and you don’t want harsh shadows behind your subject. Get it up as high as possible, pointing down behind your subject. But be sure it’s not in the shot!
Of course, you may not always have three light sources to work with, but try to get as balanced a look as possible. Watch out for shadows under the chin and dark eye sockets. Unless you’re spokesperson is a vampire, her face should be as shadow-free as possible.
Camera possibilities…
We like CNET.com’s camcorder finder. By answering a few questions, the website evaluates the kind of camera that best suits your needs. It’s a great way to get started in creating your list of potential cameras. Also, check out their best budget camcorders, including the latest Kodak Zi8 that they’ve given four stars.
More useful tips…
The links below have some great advice about shooting in general and how to make the most of what you have. Take a look and see how a few simple adjustments can really make a difference in your video.
- Shoot your subject from several angles and don’t forget to shoot “coverage” shots.
- Which leads to: Make a shot list.
- And here are some great tips specifically for web video shooting.
As always, we’d love to hear your suggestions for making great videos. Drop us a line in the comments!
——————————–
Originally published February 21, 2011
Every nonprofit has to find a balance between executing programs and services that support its mission, and getting the word out about those programs and services so support (aka cash) will continue to flow into that 501c3 bank account. So, an after-school tutoring program is a success if kids learn AND if you’ve been able to gather “collateral” (photos, testimonials, etc.) for your fundraising efforts. Sometimes, it’s hard to justify using your precious resources on collateral such as hiring a photographer, versus buying more school supplies. But you need storytelling tools to share with supporters, old and new. One great all-purpose item is a video.
Now, now, don’t roll your eyes. We know you know that already.
We also know that you know videos can be tricky. They need to be shorter rather than longer, but filled with necessary info. They need to be entertaining or moving, without be cliché or exploitative. They need to look and sound professional, but without breaking the bank. Oh, right, and every single person on your board has a very strong opinion about your video. Honestly, we can’t really help you with that. For everything else, though, there are lots of resources, if you’re ready to give it a go.
Before you turn on the camera…
- Start with documentary filmmaker Chris Davenport’s three rules for crafting a nonprofit video so you don’t end up with a “video brochure”.
- Deciding exactly what kind of video to shoot can really stump some nonprofits. Get the conversation started among key members of your organization by sharing Part One of this article from Denise Atchley, co-founder of the Digital Storytelling Festival
(NOTE: this is a super-comprehensive article that takes you all the way through the storytelling/video process. Refer back to it as you go through your own project.)
- If you’re standing in a camera shop right now trying to decide what to buy, here’s a great comparison of Flip versus Kodak Zi8. (Spoiler: Experts call it a virtual tie…)
Shooting…
If you’re going to shoot it yourself, you couldn’t have picked a better time. Consumer cameras are better (and more affordable) than ever. Each of these articles has very useful tips and suggestions, depending on the camera you have (or are looking to buy). What’s the consistent advice? If it looks great but sounds lousy, it’s a lousy video. If it looks so-so but sounds good, it’s a good video. Can you hear me now?
- If you’re picking up a camcorder for the first time, take a look at About.com’s Basic Camcorder Shooting Tips.
- Dealing with sound just requires a camera with an external audio jack and a relatively inexpensive lavaliere mic. ProductiveToday.com has some info on getting better audio for your video.
- A digital single lens reflex camera is another way to go. (It looks like a camera-camera, but has video capabilities.) Dawn & Brian Crawford take you through their recent experience using this kind of camera.
- People who can speak passionately about your organization are a great asset to any video. Here are some simple interviewing tips from CreativeTriage.com
Editing…
- As Josh Tabb points out on the Case Foundation Blog, anyone can shoot video, but editing is where many nonprofits stumble. He also points out that YouTube now has a free online editing tool that may be a great solution for many small nonprofits.
- If you’re an iMovie user – or just have the free software and want to learn to use it – refer back to the article above from Denise Atchley, co-founder of the Digital Storytelling Festival. Part 3 is a basic tutorial in iMovie.
- For PC users, take a look at this video tutorial for Windows Movie Maker basic editing tips.
Once it’s done…
Naturally, you’ll want to put your video on your website and possibly make some DVD copies to share with donors or at conferences. But don’t forget the rest of the world.
- Geoff Livingston explains how you can use YouTube’s tools and resources to get your video seen by people who may share you passion even if they don’t share your zip code. – 5 Ways Non-Profits Can Increase Engagement with YouTube.
Prizes!!!
There are numerous contests and awards programs for nonprofit videos. We strongly suggest you take advantage of the opportunity to interact with other nonprofit filmmakers, as well as the chance of winning fabulous cash and prizes!
- YouTube DoGooder Nonprofit Video Awards
If your nonprofit made a video in 2010, you have until March 2nd to submit it for a chance to win a $2,500 grant from the Case Foundation. Categories are: Best Small Organization Video, Best Medium Organization Video, Best Large Organization Video, and Best Thrifty Video (for videos produced for under $500). A panel of judges will determine the finalists. The YouTube community will vote for their favorites March 7th through March 11th. In addition to $$, there is swag – from cameras to a trip to NTEN 2012.
- Lights. Camera. Help. Nonprofit Film Festival in Austin, TX
A great networking event for nonprofits that puts your video up on the big screen.
March 4th – May 31st: Submissions open
July 28th – 30th: Film Festival
- Tufts University 501c3: Capturing Change on Camera
This was the first year for the recently-concluded contest promoting nonprofits that help children and families and filmmakers who tell their stories through visual testimonials. The first place winner received $3,200, second place won $1,600, and the under 18 years of age prize received $600. The prizes were split equally between the nonprofit organization and filmmaker. Keep it on your radar for next year.
Here at WhatGives!? we love a good resource list. We’re sure there are many more articles out there that you have found helpful. Please share them with us in the comments and we’ll keep adding as well. Thanks!
Related Posts
Tags: Brian Crawford, Case Foundation, Chris Davenport, CNET.com, Dawn Crawford, Digital Storytelling Festival, DoGooder Nonprofit Video Awards, Geoff Livingston, iMovie, Josh Tabb, lighting, Lights.Camera.Help., nonprofits, ProductiveToday.com, Tufts University, video production, Vimeo, Windows Movie Maker, YouTube
