How to Create Quality Video Content without a Budget
Looking to create quality video content on a budget? Videos are great for engagement, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok and Twitter, or the quintessential video posting site, YouTube. Many people assume that you need to spend a small fortune to produce quality content. However, that simply isn’t the case.
Whether you’re a professional in one of the many creative jobs in DC or just want to make videos on the side, here are some tips for getting quality results without spending a bundle.
Use What You Have (or What You Can Get for Free)
One of the easiest ways to keep costs down is to assess what you already have available. For example, a relatively new smartphone can be an excellent tool for creating quality video content. Most mobile devices have fairly robust cameras, integrated editing software, and reasonable-quality microphones.
Certain computer webcams are similarly capable, and many modern digital cameras will also record video. This means you might want to explore what you already have on hand and determine what will meet your needs.
When it comes to editing, there are a lot of free apps and software downloads that can provide you with a high-quality toolset at no cost. Davinci Resolve for PCs and Macs is particularly feature-rich, and it doesn’t cost a dime. The Apple Clips App, available on iOS, provides iPhone and iPad users with a reasonable toolset at no cost, while Android users might want to explore Magisto Video Editor & Maker.
Make Lighting a Priority
Bad lighting can bring even great content down even if the rest of your setup seems perfect for quality video content creation. Luckily, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to get it right.
Generally, you can do pretty well by allowing sunlight to light the space as long as it doesn’t produce any glare on the lens. Alternatively, a few strategically placed desk lamps can also do the trick.
Just make sure to test your solutions before posting the video. That way you can see if there are any strange shadows that justify adjustments prior to when you start creating the video.
Pay Attention to the Audio
In many cases, people won’t be bothered if your video is shot in 720p instead of 1080p or 4k. Afterall, it isn’t quality video content. However, low-quality audio can quickly become frustrating, particularly if it is hard to understand what the person is saying or the audio isn’t properly synced to the video.
As with lighting, it’s wise to test any options that you may have available. This can include microphones built into cameras, smartphones, or computers, headsets, and even standalone microphones. Make sure that you record in a quiet space and that any distracting sounds, including heaters, refrigerators, and fans, aren’t on when you make the video.
At times, you can clean up audio using video editing software or by running a noise-removal filter. However, if you aren’t having any luck, you can get a decent microphone for as little as $25.
By following the tips above, you can dramatically improve the quality of your video content.
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