Tips for shooting better online video. Part one

The viewing window for online video, even for most broadband connections, is pretty small, so you don’t necessarily need a top-of-the-line lens. Try this CNet video camera buying guide to help you price, research and select a camera within your budget.

While you don’t need the best camera, you do need acceptable sound. A microphone for man-on-the-street interviews is very helpful and is a real improvement over the camera’s on-board mic. The following are specifications for a hand-held stick microphone. You should be able to find one at a Radio Shack or Best Buy for between $20 and $40, or even a little less.

uni-directional (cardioid) pick-up pattern
lo-impedence (ohm symbol) 600 ohms or lower
frequency response range: 50-100 hertz to 10,000-15,000 hertz
1/8” mini-plug or a ¼” phone plug with a 1/8” adapter
10-20 foot cord (you might find it a pain to wrap up and store such a long cord, but it’s indispensable when you really need it; a detachable cable is OK)
No battery required
A lavaliere microphone for planned sit-down style interviews is a plus, but it’s not imperative if you’re trying to save money at the beginning. Some stick microphones available in the price ranges detailed above come with those cheesy little plastic stands, and believe it or not, these are fine for getting started. Just place the mic on the cheesy stand outside of the frame and shoot. Try to shoot in a quiet place to minimize audio distractions, and you’ll be surprised how well this will suffice to get you started.

You must use earphones to check that your audio is working. It’s surprising how easy it is to forget to turn on a microphone when you’re busy setting up equipment, trying to look confident and, at the same time, working to put your subject at ease. A simple check, even with the cheapest earphones, can save your entire video.

You will also want a tripod. Video doesn’t look good if the image is shaky like you shot it during an earthquake. A tripod with a leveling bubble is a nice extra. If you find yourself without a tripod, avoid using the zoom. As you zoom in, it gets easier and easier to see even the most subtle camera movement.

Flip-around LCD screens are nice in case you need to film yourself. But beware of using the screen all the time because it eats batteries fast. And, an extra battery, though pricey, is worthwhile so that you’re never caught without one. Get a roomy case and don't forget to keep a pen and paper inside with your camera gear. It'll make editing easier later if you keep notes while you shoot.

More on part two soon

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