How do you avoid common videography mistakes?

1 Poor Audio Quality

One of the most noticeable and annoying videography mistakes is poor audio quality. If your video has distorted, muffled, or noisy sound, your viewers will lose interest and trust in your message. To avoid this, use a good microphone that suits your recording environment and purpose. For example, a shotgun mic is ideal for directional sound, while a lavalier mic is great for interviews. Check your audio levels, avoid wind and background noise, and use headphones to monitor your sound.

2 Shaky Footage

Another common videography mistake is shaky footage, which can make your video look amateurish and unprofessional. Shaky footage can result from using a handheld camera, moving too fast, or zooming in too much. To avoid this, use a tripod, a stabilizer, or a gimbal to keep your camera steady and smooth. Plan your shots, use slow and steady movements, and avoid unnecessary zooms.

3 Bad Lighting

Bad lighting can ruin the mood, the tone, and the clarity of your video. If your video is too dark, too bright, or has harsh shadows, your viewers will not be able to see your subject or your message. Use natural or artificial light sources that suit your video style and purpose. For example, a soft and diffused light is ideal for portraits, while a hard and direct light is good for drama. Adjust your camera settings, use reflectors and filters, and avoid backlighting and mixed lighting.

4 Poor Composition

Poor composition can make your video look boring, confusing, or distracting. If your video has no focal point, no balance, or no depth, your viewers will not be able to follow your story or your message. Use the rule of thirds, the golden ratio, or other composition techniques to create visual interest and harmony in your video. Try out different angles, perspectives, and transitions to create variety and movement in your video.

5 Inconsistent Editing

Inconsistent editing can make your video look choppy, sloppy, or mismatched. If your video has no flow, no continuity, or no style, your viewers will not be able to enjoy your video or your message. To avoid this, use a consistent color scheme, a consistent audio level, and a consistent pace in your video. Use appropriate cuts, effects, and music to enhance your video and your message.

6 Lack of Planning

Perhaps the most important videography mistake is lack of planning. Not planning will waste time, money, and resources, and end up with a mediocre video. Do a pre-production process that includes researching your topic, writing a script, creating a storyboard, scouting locations, and preparing equipment. Post-production process that includes reviewing your footage, organizing your files, editing your video, and exporting your final product.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?