So You Want to Vlog? Top Resources and Tips

Video blogging (a.k.a. "vlogging") can be a bit intimidating. Some folks often think they need to have a certain level of experience, perhaps in reporting or journalism... or videography. Perhaps a certain "face" for video...
All myths I tell you! Myths! *cracks whip*

However, there are some tools and tips that can help you take off in the right direction, right away.

First let's talk tools.

1) You will need a video capture device! There are many options available, ranging from web cam, a cell phone, a digital camera, tapeless pocket cams, tapeless camcorders or the more expensive tape camcorders. I use a Flip UltraHD, a Kodak Zi8 (though Kodak has some great NEW cameras out!) and sometimes I use my web cam.

2) A computer! Clearly.

3) Editing software. Flip offers a free software that is easy to use, but limiting. Mac users have fun with iMovie, Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro. PC users have Windows Movie Maker, Pinnacle Studios, Adobe Premiere Elements, or the high-end Adobe Premiere.

4) Hosting. Get an account set-up at a site like YouTube, Vimeo, Flickr... or a create an account at TubeMogul. Tube Mogul allows you to syndicate your videos across multiple social networking sites. Made out of Awesome, no?

Once you have those things in place, there are some good rules to follow in order to capture video that won't scare your audience away.

1) Good lighting. Good lighting. Good lighting. Don't under-estimate the power of good lighting. Take advantage of natural light. Set-up lights if needed, but be watchful for hard direct-light and shadows.

2) Sound. Be aware of your background. Whether I use my Flip or my Zi8, depends on sound. I prefer my Flip because it charges and uploads my videos at the same time. But if I need a mic, I go for my Kodak Zi8. It has a mic input so I can catch the conversation and not the garbage truck driving by. If you do not have a camera with a mic input -- be strategic. Turn off your dishwasher, think about turning off the ringer on your phone. If out and about, find a quiet-ish corner (but not a dark one - don't forget about lighting.  Though sometimes, the unplanned can make for comedy... because can't turn off our 5 year olds!

3) Have a plan. Have a few notes handy. Make an outline. Practice a few times to work out the kinks, and your nerves. Do a vocal warm up or two! Practice saying, "Unique New York" or "Double bubble gum bubbles double" or "Which wily wizard wished wicked wishes for Willy?" I'm kidding. *cracking up* Or you can. It's YOUR vlog!

4) Be engaging. Pretend the camera is a friend! Practice this. If you are uncomfortable talking to the camera, your audience will feel uncomfortable too. I promise. Video is a great opportunity to reach your audience in a personal way. Be warm, show your personality, and let your audience get to know you. I have found the more time I spend making video, the more comfortable I am. Like time spent getting to know a friend. I'm serious. The more comfortable I become with my camera, the easier it is to capture the video I want with fewer takes.



5) Take short clips. It is highly probably if you take 15 straight minutes of video, you will not dig in to edit it. It is overwhelming. Have a plan. Take specific shots based on your plan.

6) Get creative! You CAN produce an engaging video with just face-time, however... Think about getting shots that integrate what is happening around the subject. At a park? Get 15 seconds of a swing or tree. Get ON the ground and get a shot of stroller wheels rolling by. Use photographs. Good content requires good/fun/engaging footage and creative video capture!

To summarize - Practice. Practice taking video. Practice editing. But most of all have fun with it! If you are enjoying it, that will come across to your audience. Vlogging is the new black. Now is an ideal time to get moving, practicing and publishing YOUR videos online.

What are you going to shoot? Let us know below.


======================================================================== Clever Girls Collective is a social media marketing agency founded by women who wanted to use their deep marketing experience and broad social network relationships for good. We know that women who engage in social media are some of the most authentic, connected, trusted, and vocal influencers -- not only online, but "in real life." That's why we've developed The Clever 1000: an ever-growing, beautifully diverse network of professional, thoughtful social media-connected, natural networkers and influencers who want to engage with and enhance their favorite brands.Jenny Ingram writes and video blogs at Jenny On the Spot. She is also started vlogging because she discovered a camera on her laptop! She is one of the iVillage iVoices and has a fond affection for coffee and things that sparkle.