07. The Process of Making a video Jeswyn

Large portion of video content creation in social media is self videos. People taking video of themselves. For some people standing in front of camera is as difficult as standing in front of audience. In public speech you face other people. But in front of camera you don't face camera, actually you face yourself. Lets see few steps you can follow to create a successful video content.

Brainstorm about your video first
Before do anything brainstorm about your video first. This is the question you need to answer first. What I am going to talk about? That is the main idea or main topic of your video. Plan your speech. Think about what you are going to say and make an outline of the main idea. You don't need a complete script but it helps to have a plan to make sure you cover the main points. Planning the order of ideas will make your speech clearer and help with smooth progression.

Dress appropriately
Dress appropriately. Wear clothes that matches with the subject you are talking about. If your video is business related wear the clothes you would wear when doing business. For a friendly video or travel vlog wear the clothes you would wear when hanging out with friends.

Choose a background
Make sure you are standing in front of a background that looks good. Pick a background that is clean and not distracting. The background should be static. If things behind you are moving around it will be distracting. A bookshelf behind you will be more interesting and important looking than a blank wall.

Be relaxed
As you are getting ready to take video, if you are nervous make yourself comfortable first. you can pray, listen to music for a few minutes, take few deep breaths… do whatever which makes you calm down.

Practice speaking in front of camera
Just try to get used to speaking to the camera. Having a chance to do this a bunch of times will give you some basic experience and level of comfort. Don't worry too much about the small details at first. Just get some time talking to the camera.

Press the record button
Forgetting to press the record button will make all your efforts waste. So make sure you press the record button and the camera is actually recording.

Make eye contact
Look into the camera lens so that you will make eye contact with your audience. This will help you connect with your viewers. Feel free to look away from the camera to direct attention and make your video feel natural.

Look at the other people in the video
Look at the other people in the video if there are any. Do this to direct attention of your audience to the other person when they are speaking.

Look at the objects you are discussing about
Look at the objects you are discussing about. If you are holding or showing off a product look at the object while speaking about it.

Use plain language
Use plain language. Avoid words that most people don't know about including long and unusual words and words that are specific to your area of work or expertise. Instead of saying "website optimization" say something like "making your website work well".

Choose short and clear sentences
Choose short and clear sentences. Short sentences are easy to say and easy to understand. If it takes a long time for you to complete a sentence your viewer may lose track of your point. Shorter sentences will make your speech seem more natural. People watching videos may be doing other things like eating lunch. Keep your ideas short and clear to hold attention.

Pretend you are talking to a friend
Look into the camera lens and pretend it is your best friend. Thinking about talking to a friend can make your video warmer and more relaxed.