We all know video killed the radio star, but apparently, it’s also killing communications professionals. That’s why, when members of the newly-formed Gulf of Mexico Communicators Network said hey, we need more knowledge about how to shoot and edit videos, we threw together a video tips workshop.
And today, we are sharing with you a bit of what we learned from each other, and from our instructor, David Garraway with Mississippi State University TV. What are your favorite video shooting and editing tips?
Here are some top tips for creating great video content
Tell a good story
In general, there are three elements of any good story are 1. setup, 2. conflict, and 3. resolution or a desired state. Once you have a plan to include those elements, ask yourself the following questions: Is the message concise and relatable? Is my audience narrow enough? How do I want my audience to respond? What do I want my audience to feel? Decide if you would be better off doing an interview or using a narrator. And whatever you do, make sure you “lead with the tiny cow” as Garraway says, referring to a video that featured an adorable bovine. This is a reminder that if you have something in the story that stands out, make sure it goes on the screen first.
Think before you film
Horizontal or vertical is a big question in the times of 16:9 (think tv and movies) and 9:16 (think Reels). Garraway suggests deciding beforehand what your audience wants and where you will be posting and try to shoot just for that.
Other things to consider for good video include lighting and a variety of shots and angles. Don’t forget to consider your available assets such as maps, graphics, etc. And remember, not everything is meant to be a video. “If your message does not have a visual component, maybe you need to find a better way to put that video out.” – Garraway
During and post: a few tips
Don’t crop bodies at joints.
Audio is key to good video. Get a lav mic with a wind screen and always check your audio (use headphones)
Watch your edited video without sound, then play it again and just listen (don’t watch the screen).
Thanks again to David Garraway for teaching us all about video! Learn more about our Gulf of Mexico Communicators Group by emailing .
Written by Amanda Nalley, GOMA Communications Manager and first published on LinkedIn.