Self-Shot Videos Tips & Tricks

As more and more content is being self-shot, we have developed a list of nine easy-to-understand-and-implement tips & tricks that will help your subjects and you achieve better results. We hope this helps.

CONTENT & LENGTH

Try to limit answers to three minutes or less. Share your authentic self and stories. If you want to redo an answer, or skip over a question, that’s ok.

CAMERA SETTINGS

Check your settings to make sure that you are shooting 1080 video at 30fps (in Apple iOS, Settings > Camera > Record Video > 1080p at 30 fps). Do not shoot 60fps. Android phones and computer applications should also have recording/export settings. No need to shoot 4K video, but please make sure you are either shooting 1080p (or 720p if you cannot).

LIGHTING (INTERIOR)

The ideal light is natural and soft. If you’re inside, position yourself in front of a window, but not too close. If the lighting is harsh, step back or draw curtains. If you’re using a lamp, place it more or less in front of you instead; this way, you can avoid shadowy lighting. Avoid top lighting as it creates unflattering shadows under the eyes. Do not stand in front of a window, as you may come across as a silhouette (backlit).

ORIENTATION

Unless otherwise instructed, shoot your video horizontally (landscape), not vertically (portrait). This way, the video works for mobile and desktop.

BEST ANGLES

The most flattering angles, generally speaking, will be either with the camera at the same level as your eyes, or slightly above.

LIGHTING (EXTERIOR)

Outside, the best lighting will be in an area with natural light, but in shadows; direct, harsh sun may be unflattering or cause you to squint. If you must shoot in direct sun, avoid the lunch hour, as this is the worst lighting of the day.

SOUND

Pick a space that’s quiet and relatively free of ambient noise. If you have issues with sound quality, using headphones with a microphone helps.

DISTANCE & ENVIRONMENT

You want to be close enough to the camera that we see your face clearly, but not so close that you fill the screen entirely, with your head and neck cut off. It's nice to see where you are instead of a plain white wall. Tidy up if needed.

EYE GLASSES

Watch for unpleasant reflections in your glasses, especially if you are in front of a computer screen in a darkly lit room.