April 2025

Video production can come in many forms! At home production is sometimes needed for updates or less formal communications. Striking Media is here to offer some tips on how to record high quality footage to meet your needs … from your desk!  

At Striking Media we specialize in video production, often in Falls Church, Arlington and Washington DC. However, we often get asked what’s the best way to record your own footage from home when the budget won’t stretch to a full video production project? While most people would prefer to have a team of professionals, not everyone has the budget for a full blown production and we understand! So here are some tips on how to optimize your footage at home and on a budget.

Even without a professional video production setup, recording high-quality content from your computer can be all the difference in how your project is perceived. Whether you’re recording a YouTube video, an online course, a remote interview, or a professional presentation, the right setup and techniques can help you achieve a polished, professional look and sound. With growing demand for virtual content, standing out with top-tier production value is more important than ever. Here’s a comprehensive guide to getting the best results from your at-home or office setup while staying within your budget and mastering how to optimize each step of the process:

 

1. Start with Pre-Production Planning

Before you ever press record, it’s essential to map out your video project. Take a look at some of the videos on our website to get inspiration from our video production projects in Falls Church, Arlington and Washington DC. While you won’t be able to recreate a professional shoot, it will give you a goal to create the best possible result. The pre-production stage lays the groundwork for a smooth shoot and strong final product.

• Scriptwriting: Even for a short video, a script helps keep your message concise and clear.
• Scheduling: Choose a time when lighting and background noise levels are optimal. For at-home creators, this might mean recording early in the morning or late at night.
• Tech Checklist: Make a checklist of your gear (camera, mic, lights) and test everything to anticipate surprise malfunctions. Also ensure your equipment is adequately charged to avoid any headache later in the shoot.

Pre-production planning helps to optimize your workflow and ensures you use your time and budget effectively while recording at home.

2. Choose the Right Equipment

Camera:

• An easy one to start with is a high-quality external webcam, (for example, we love the Logitech Brio as recommended by Top Consumer Pick  . It will provide better resolution and color accuracy than a a laptop’s webcam.
• If you want even better quality and have a bigger budget, consider using a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Here’s B&H’s recommendations
• Mount your camera on a tripod or adjustable stand to maintain stability and so you can get the perfect angle.
• If you don’t want to make any new purchases then filming with your phone will work just fine. Just remember to use the camera on the back of your phone to optimize the quality of your footage. Take a look at this article from UMBC for some extra tips on filming with your phone.

Microphone:

• A dedicated USB or XLR microphone will deliver much better sound than a built-in laptop mic. Popular choices include the Blue Yeti (USB) or the Shure SM7B (XLR with an audio interface).
• Lavalier (clip-on) microphones could be a good option if you prefer a hands-free setup.

Lighting:

• Good lighting is crucial for video quality. Ring lights or LED panel lights are the kind of soft lighting sources one should employ to avoid uncomplimentary shadows.
• Avoid overhead lighting, which creates unflattering shadows and distort facial features.
• Natural light can work well but should be diffused to prevent overexposure, this can be fixed with just a sheer curtain or a bed sheet when in a pinch.

Working in video production in Falls Church allows the Striking Media team to utilize some great camera shops in our area. Check out District Camera Arlington and DC Camera for professional services to support your production.

3. Optimize Your Recording Environment

• Set up in a quiet location to minimize background noise.
• Use a simple, clean, and clutter-free background or a green screen for a tidy, professional look.

4. Adjust Camera and Microphone Settings

Camera Settings:

• Adjust your resolution to a minimum of 1080p for clear video.
• Adjust white balance to match your lighting and prevent unnatural colors.
• Position the camera at eye level for a natural and flattering angle.
• Frame yourself using the “rule of thirds,” and with your eyes approximately two-thirds up the frame to optimize visual balance.
• Ensure your video orientation is appropriate for the platform your video will be posted to. If you’re filming for social media it might be best to film vertically but for everything else filming horizontally is ideal.

Microphone Settings:

• Set your input gain so that your voice is clear without distortion.
• Use noise reduction features or software filters to remove background noise.
• Place the microphone about 6-12 inches away from your mouth for optimal sound quality.

5. Use Quality Recording Software

• OBS Studio (free) is wonderful for both video and audio recording.
• Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro can help edit after the recording.
• Audacity (free) is great for cleaning up and enhancing audio.
• Riverside.fm or Zencastr could be useful for remote podcasting and interviews with high-quality recording.

6. What to do while recording

• Before you commit to a long shoot do a short test recording to check video framing, lighting, and audio levels.
• Adjust as needed to ensure you look and sound your best before recording the final take. Don’t forget to check your teeth!
• Maintain eye contact with the camera lens to create a stronger connection with your audience.
• Use natural gestures and facial expressions to drive your message in a more energetic and clear way.
• Speak at a steady pace and pause briefly between key points to allow viewers time to absorb information and to allow space if editing your footage.
• Stay mindful of your posture—sit or stand up straight to look confident and maintain consistent audio pickup.
• If you’re using a script, consider using a teleprompter app to keep your delivery smooth and avoid looking down.
• Keep a glass of water nearby and take breaks between takes to stay refreshed and clear-voiced.
• Take notes on what could be improved and adjust your setup accordingly to optimize future sessions. This small step can save hours of re-recording and editing and is especially helpful in a solo, at-home production environment.

7. Edit for a Professional Touch

• Utilize a free video editing software such as a CapCut, DaVinci Resolve, etc.
• Trim out any unnecessary pauses or mistakes.
• Enhance audio with noise reduction and equalization.
• Add transitions, text overlays, or background music as needed.

By following these steps, you can significantly improve the quality of your self-recorded videos and audio. With the right setup and attention to detail, you’ll produce content that looks and sounds professional, making a lasting impression on your audience!

And if you’re ready to take your video production to the next level, reach out to Striking Media who will ensure your deliverable sets you apart from the crowd.