How do i make my cam videos look better

Question

How do i make my cam videos look better

Answer 1

Always use a tripod, monopod or some other steadying device - never handheld. Copy what the pros do... Tripod, monopod, crane, SpyderBrace (you can make one from PVC pipe).

Keep zooming and panning to a minimum. If you have to zoom, then zoom v e r y s l o w l y. If you have to pan, then pan v e r y s l o w l y. Watch TV or movies... pay attention to the camera work.

If you are inside, turn on the lights. If you are outside and it is dark, turn on the lights. Most consumer camcorders do not do well in low-light because they have small lenses (can't let much light in) and small imaging chips. You can add light by turning on some lamps or using a video light. If you cannot add light, expect grainey video.

Disable digital zoom. It is useless. Use only optical zoom.

Then there is audio... but that is another post... and depends on what you are recording

Answer 2

Little Dog gives a lot of common advice - read it and heed it

Depending on what you are filming and how, the do's and dont's will change.  A technique recommended for filming sports may not be recommended for filming a conversation of two people sitting at a table or in a living room.  Remember that any little camera movement you see in that small view will be magnified on a larger screen, so it is usually best to eliminate camera movements or to keep them slow and smooth.  This is where keeping a steady image is important, and the use of a tripod or monopod helps in a big, big way.

The most important tip is to get as close as possible to your subjects.  This not only prevents you from zooming excessively, but it also helps you collect as much of the best light as possible for correct color and clarity.  Objects and people always look their best when filmed with no zoom and as close as necessary for the shot.  Recording from a distance will affect color and make it hard to follow a subject's small movements such as talking or reaching for a small item like a pen or a cup.