Wikipedia:WikiProject Wiki Makes Video/Video training

Video training tips for making Wikipedia video

Planning

 * 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

 * 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

 * 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

 * 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

 * 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