Wikipedia:WikiProject Wiki Makes Video/Video training

Video training tips for making Wikipedia video

Planning

• Aim for less than 2 minutes for finished video (unless you know what you're doing)
• Try to keep content language agnostic, if possible

Basic visual literacy concepts

• Framing using rule of thirds
• Framing human subjects (don't cut off the chin, talk/nose space)
• Holding each shot for 10 seconds
• One concept or movement per shot (no "spray and pray" shooting)
• Watch lighting and focus
• Beware of what audio you're recording
• Shoot lots of closeups. Up to 75% of your shots should be closeups.

Advanced topics

• Use a tripod as much as possible. Makes for steadier/usable shots
• Don't cross the line of action. Stay on one side of the subject for a logical shot sequence
• Continuity and consistency (objects in left/right hand)
• Make smooth and steady camera moves (start still, end still)
• Avoid shooting brands or copyrighted information
• Use only "freely licensed" content from trusted sources (ie. Wikimedia Commons, Internet Archive, et al)

Audio

• Use only freely licensed background music
• For interviews, best to use a external microphone (handheld or lapel mic).
• For voiceover narration, find a quiet/dead audio location. Good: closet with clothes, or under blanket. Bad: bathroom

Editing

• Pacing: keep clips between 3-6 seconds
• Limit transitions and effects - stick with cuts only, no blur/wipes/fades
• We want variety of shots and sequences, don't repeat yourself, use diversity of clips
• Avoid jump cuts and abrupt movement
• Add text (on screen) or narration when necessary