FYI, the video that should go with this text is not loading! Hopefully I can upload it soon. Sorry!
Welcome to the first week of Visual Storytelling!
Visual Storytelling is a fancy way of saying making
awesome videos. Because this program has moved from IRL to online, hopefully we
can give you some tips, tricks and advice on how to make better videos to share.
This first week is all about the work you want to put in
before you start filming. Here are the three things you should think about
before you start filming or editing:
1.
What is the purpose of your video?
a. Thinking about why you want to make the video
can help you focus what you are doing. Of course, making a short funny video to
share with friends is different from making a video for a class assignment, or
even something to share with social media followers. Take a minute and think
about why you are making the video, and you will be able to answer the next 2 questions.
2.
What do you need to make your video?
a. Some of this is equipment based, some is going
to be specific shots, text or music you might need.
b. You will need at least a camera. I typically use
my phone or a tablet, however more advanced videos may require a professional grade
camera. You might want a tripod or a ring light. Physical equipment to make the video will be limited to what you have access to.
c. Think about what shots and other things you need to record. You may be able to shoot one scene, but a longer a video may need to be broken up into smaller parts. For example, a how to video may include wide general shots as well as some close ups for small
details. Write a list of all the shots you think you will need, so that you don't have to go back and re-record things.
d. Write out a script. You may want to record a voice over for the final video, or you may just want to know what you intend to say. There's nothing wrong with going off script, but to keep on track and say what you need to say, a script will be helpful.
e.
Think about any stills you may need. This could be a thumbnail image for social media, or images to use in the video. These might be easier to create during editing, but it should be thought about during the planning process.
3.
Where are you going to share your video?
a. When you start recording, you are able to change
some things to make it easier to upload. YouTube, Instagram, Facebook are all
just a bit different in how they display video. Knowing where you want to share
the video can help you set up how you are filming.
This is just the beginning. Once you have a good plan, you can start recording! This week’s assignment is to start planning out what you would want to film, and work on getting all those files together! If you need an idea, why not make a book trailer? A book trailer is kind of like a book review/ ad for a book you’ve read and loved.
There is a lot more to think about when it comes to video creation. This is just a starting point!