Graphics can add real value to any video. Often a simple graphic outlining a process or flowchart allows the viewer to clearly see in a way that a vocal explanation can’t. Graphics can be simple PowerPoint slides, simple on screen text or bespoke animations. Whichever you chose be sure they are not over-written. Avoid font sizes of less than 32 to limit the number of words that are displayed. In our experience simple graphics work best.
PowerPoint has an export option for static slides which should be exported as .TIFF files. These seem to work best for imports into editing software but other export options also exist within PowerPoint. For PowerPoint slide animations it’s best to do a separate screen recording of the animation and then import this into your project. There are a number of screen recording software options available, some of which offer a free demo so look around and see which suits you best.
Text captions can usually be added in the sequence without too much hassle. This can be used for name strap captions and other screens where straight text is needed.
Music
Music can add real emotion to any video. Used as a background it can improve the viewing experience of the video. Avoid using pop music, in fact you can only use music that you have the clearance to do so. Copyright infringement breaks the law so our advice is get the proper clearance to avoid getting prosecuted later. Pop music can be prohibitive, sometimes well over £5,000 for a simple licence and that’s if you can get the group to agree in the first place. There are dozens of online music libraries around. These offer huge selections and variety. In general music without lyrics are best as they can be edited more easily. The libraries also help with advice on what clearance is needed and how much that costs. The price varies accordingly. Music libraries offer a vast selection of copyrighted music that can be bought for use on a one off or lifetime agreement.
Your music choice should enhance the video and not detract from the content. Avoid brash music and a tempo that doesn’t suit the content. You can adjust the levels of the audio as speech comes in and out as well.
Edit Amendments
It’s unlikely that your first edit will be the one that gets used unless it is very simple. Export the video and circulate this with the stakeholders and gather their feedback. This is where the script comes in as a document for you to fall back on. Having the script signed off earlier means your video should match the set expectations closely. That said there is always room for tweaks and amendments but the overall content should be close. Absorb the comments and make changes if you can. Then re-circulate to get the final sign off.
Next read our blog 7 of 7 – File exporting
Want to know more? Then why not attend one of our training workshops. For more information go to: www.howtofilm.co.uk
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