Wikipedia:WikiProject Wiki Makes Video/Video training
Video training tips for making Wikipedia video
Planning[edit]
- Aim for less than 2 minutes for finished video (unless you know what you're doing)
- Try to keep content language agnostic, if possible
Basic visual literacy concepts[edit]
- Framing using rule of thirds
- Framing human subjects (don't cut off the chin, talk/nose space)
- Holding each shot for 10 seconds
- One concept or movement per shot (no "spray and pray" shooting)
- Watch lighting and focus
- Beware of what audio you're recording
- Shoot lots of closeups. Up to 75% of your shots should be closeups.
Advanced topics[edit]
- Use a tripod as much as possible. Makes for steadier/usable shots
- Don't cross the line of action. Stay on one side of the subject for a logical shot sequence
- Continuity and consistency (objects in left/right hand)
- Make smooth and steady camera moves (start still, end still)
- Avoid shooting brands or copyrighted information
- Use only "freely licensed" content from trusted sources (ie. Wikimedia Commons, Internet Archive, et al)
Audio[edit]
- Use only freely licensed background music
- For interviews, best to use a external microphone (handheld or lapel mic).
- For voiceover narration, find a quiet/dead audio location. Good: closet with clothes, or under blanket. Bad: bathroom
Editing[edit]
- Pacing: keep clips between 3-6 seconds
- Limit transitions and effects - stick with cuts only, no blur/wipes/fades
- We want variety of shots and sequences, don't repeat yourself, use diversity of clips
- Avoid jump cuts and abrupt movement
- Add text (on screen) or narration when necessary