{Video} Sharon shares: “Lighting is Everything”

Today we start a new series on the blog investigating one of the biggest trends in blogging in 2018: video. If you’re thinking about using this medium to promote your blog or business, then learn from those who we are going to feature. We’re starting off with South African mom blogger Sharon, from The Blessed Barrenness, who shares with us the importance about filming in a well lit room. 

 

1. How did you get started with the videos?

I pitched an idea to a brand that included video, having never created a video or edited one before, and they loved it! I freaked out and roped in a friend to help me with the editing. I had so much fun filming the video that I knew I wanted to do more.

You can see that video here:

2. How much time do you spend in creating videos and how often do you upload?

In the beginning, I put a huge amount of pressure on myself to create and release a video every week. Video shooting and editing takes a HUGE amount of time so now I find myself only creating and posting video when the content really calls for it.

3. Tell us about the equipment you use for video: camera, lighting, background. If possible give us some pictures.

My camera is fairly basic, I don’t have a DSLR, I use a Canon Powershot SX60 but it can shoot video in HD. Then I also use a Godox LED 126 Video Light. I don’t always use a background, but specifically for makeup tutorials, I use a white sheet draped over a clothing rail and then in the editing phase, I play with the editing to get a smooth, bright, white background.

4. Which room do you shoot in?

Usually my bedroom, it has a huge amount of natural light which does always work best for editing. I try to sit facing the window to maximize the light being shone on me.

5. Which editing software do you use?

I’m not at all advanced when it comes to editing. I’m still just using the free Windows Movie Editor software, for now, it’s enough for me, maybe in time I’ll feel the need to upgrade to a more advanced program.

6. What tips and tricks have you learnt with editing? Is there a checklist of things you do?

I think, with my shooting and editing I learn something new every time. In the beginning I used to stop and start the filming and patch all the bits together.  I’ve since learnt that to film in one continuous loop works best, you can then split the video in the editing to correct any errors and remove bits seamlessly.

Lighting is EVERYTHING and also being aware of the set up for the scene is important to creating video that is visually appealing.

7. Is there any video guru you have used as a resource, or a mentor you admire?

Absolutely, Samantha from TechGirl and Olerato from Mom & Baby Approved.

8. What has been your most successful video and why?

The countdown video I did for the launch of Hatchimals has had over 7000 views, it’s not a great video AT ALL but I think the hype around the brand created the views.

My favorite video is the one I did for Appletiser for New Year’s. It was the first time I filmed and edited an entire video on my own, I was terrified and overwhelmed because the brand was paying me for the content, but in the end I was really proud of the outcome.

9. What are brands looking for in this medium?

Originality. I believe. Interesting content without being too boring and “reviewy”.

10. What is your advice for a newbie person who wants to get started with making videos?

Just do it. You never stop learning. Each video you do will be better and better. You’ll learn new things. Editing fixes everything. Canva is your friend, get the paid version so you can pull your brand design through to all your mediums and platforms. Have fun and don’t take yourself too seriously!

 

Thanks Sharon!

Do you consider yourself a video expert and would like to participate in this series? I’d like to hear from you! Email heather@samomblogs.co.za.

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