Make home videos using your camcorder.
Any suggestion of watching home movies fills most people with dread. Myrtha Chang of Simple Video Editing explains that "Home videos are usually long and boring" and recommends that you should "make your videos short and sweet, three minutes maximum." A little knowledge while filming and in the editing process will make your movies fun for everybody to watch.
Think Independently
Watch one of your favorite movies, only this time instead of only being entertained, evaluate the film from a technical standpoint. Notice the way wide-angle shots are mixed with closeup shots of the actors. Pay attention to how shots of things (buildings, people, objects, etc.) around the action that are not directly related to the event are "inserted" to create a more vivid story. Home Movie Editing's tip on this is to "think about making your editing easier by capturing some extra material as well as the main action. These shots, often referred to as 'cut aways' allow you to add some variety to your movie."
Spend some time on the Internet gleaning information from websites that cater to independent and hopeful filmmakers. Film-making magazines maintain content on the Web for aspiring filmmakers, directors, editors and writers.
Light Check
Pay attention to your light source, whether it is in the camera or the sun. Avoid having light behind your subject, it will only make it appear darker. For example, a person's face will be in shadow, making it difficult to see features and expressions.
If you have planned your filming, it will be easy to add additional light or plan the use of available sources. A cheap way to add lighting that's not overly bright, is to shine a light onto a piece of white poster board, with the light reflecting back to your subject.
Sound Quality
DVD camcorders have a built-in microphone, which is OK for impromptu filming, but lacks good quality. Invest in a microphone that plugs into the camcorder for clearer audio.
Editing Software
Quality editing software, even when it's free, includes the ability to trim the full-length video taken with DVD camcorders into manageable clips and offers a variety of special effects and transitions for making home movies. The software also allows you to add still photos, import animated graphics, create titles, insert sound effects and add an audio soundtrack.
The software is usually simple to work with, once you've done it the first time. Consult online tutorials regarding your brand of film editing software to shorten the learning curve for making fun-to-watch home movies.
Tags: editing software, home movies, make your, your subject
