Preparation

• Plan! Use a storyboard

• Get a solid B-Roll (additional footage that helps set the scene, tone, or tell the story. This footage can also be used for cut scenes, or wherever gaps may appear.)

• Use a tripod (or stabilize the camera)

• Trim clips before starting in

Timing

• All shots need to be longer than you would expect. - normally at least between 2-10 seconds.

• Very important for titles and captions, they need to be up for a minimum of 5 seconds, but depending on the content, may need to be longer. Not everyone reads at the same speed.

Editing

Its best to edit your video to your audio. Lay down voice-over track first, and fill any gaps between core clips with content from your B-roll (extra footage that you have already shot). This not only helps ensure your message gets across, but filling in gaps in the imagery or cutting too footage is much easier than forcing your audio to fit.

• Minimize special effects - less is more. Stick with one transition type, etc.

• Normalize the audio levels (have them all set to the same output volume)

• Backup your stuff, and save as often as possible

• Once you are happy with what you’ve done, duplicate it so you can further edit (creates an easy restore point).

• Editing takes a lot more more time than you may expect

• Triple check spelling!

• Try to limit camera angles changes on the same subject to less than 45 degrees

• Try to make any cuts as the subject begins to move

Remember

• Follow your plan, be creative, have fun!

Editing Software

Android

• Adobe Premiere Clip

• FilmoraGo

• PowerDirector Video Editor App

iOS

• iMovie

MacOS

• Adobe Premiere Rush/Pro

• iMovie

Windows

• Adobe Premiere Rush/Pro

• Shotcut