8 Tips for Shooting a Business Video

I recently put myself in the shoes of a Pixability client and filmed a video advertising my side business of conducting beading workshops and parties.

At first I worried about how I was going to accomplish this, where I should begin, what types of shots would work. The task before me seemed daunting, but I did it. It easier than I thought and I'm proud of the result.

Here are some helpful tips I gathered from my experience:

Familiarize yourself with the camera before you set out to shoot the actual video. The Flip Camera is dead simple to use but you still want to be as comfortable as possible on your actual shooting day, so practice using the camera. This is especially important if you use a more complicated video camera than the Flip.
Decide beforehand if you want a handheld look or the more steady look of a tripod. You can also mix both. For handheld shooting remember that keeping your hand steady is the key to good footage.
Think through the goals and objectives of your video before your scheduled shoot. Write out a list of shots that will help you accomplish this.
Think about your sources of light. Turn on all the lights. Use as much daylight as you can. Recognize the difference between good light and bad light.
Make sure to shoot the outside of your location, which will help viewers understand your subject.
Vary your shots: a) Shoot from a distance; b)Take a step forward; and c)Get close to your subject.
Remember to a) Keep your hand steady; b)Avoid filming in front of a window or c) into the sun.
Have confidence because you can do it!