Podcasting has become one of the most revolutionary aspects of the online experience. You can listen to podcasts basically anywhere you are, regardless of whether you're driving, cooking, or having a lazy day in your backyard. Podcasts have also come a long way, with 26% of Americans now listening to podcasts every week, and if you're working in this niche, you're definitely on the right track.
Even better, podcasters can now kill two birds with one stone by creating video instead of just audio podcasts. Imagine presenting your podcast to a massive audience of over 2 billion monthly users on YouTube. This brings us to our million-dollar question. How do you record a video podcast? Well, this in-depth guide will show you how to do just that.
This doesn’t mean you need to spend a lot of money on the latest and greatest technology. But, you will need to invest in some key pieces of equipment to ensure high-quality audio and visuals. Some essential video podcasting equipment include:
1. A Good Quality Microphone
This is perhaps the most important piece of equipment for recording a video podcast. A microphone picks up your voice and amplifies it so that your audience can hear you clearly. There are many different types of microphones available on the market, so it’s important to choose one that’s best suited for your needs.
2. A Camera
You can use a DSLR camera, a webcam, or even your smartphone camera. Just be sure to choose a camera with HD capabilities for the best video quality. Moreover, you’ll want to invest in a tripod to keep your camera steady during recording.
3. Video Editing Software
Once you’ve recorded your podcast, you’ll need to edit the footage. This is where video editing software comes in handy. There are many different types of software available, so be sure to choose one that’s compatible with your computer system. Additionally, you’ll want to find software that’s user-friendly and easy to navigate.
4. Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for recording a high-quality video podcast. Be sure to set up your lights in a way that illuminates your face without creating any harsh shadows. You can use natural light, artificial light, or a combination of both.
The location you choose will depend on a number of factors, such as the type of podcast you’re recording, the size of your crew, and your budget.
If you’re recording a solo podcast, you can record anywhere that’s quiet and has good lighting. However, if you’re recording a podcast with multiple people, you’ll need to find a space that’s large enough to accommodate your crew. Additionally, you may want to consider renting a professional recording studio if you have the budget.
When preparing your podcast episode, keep in mind that you’ll be recording video and audio. Some of the things you need to plan ahead include the length of the episode, topic of discussion, questions to ask your guests, and any other audio or visual elements you want to include.
You should also write a script for your podcast episode. This will help ensure you stay on track and hit all the key points you want to make. Having a written record of your podcast episode will also be helpful if you need to refer back to it later or edit the video.
There are several ways you can record your video podcast, including:
Your choice here will depend on the type of podcast you’re recording, your budget, and your level of comfort with recording technology. Make sure your equipment is well set up, cameras are well angled and fully charged, and the microphones are strategically placed to capture all voices clearly.
When you’re ready to start recording, hit the record button and begin speaking. The thing about podcasts is that they tend to be more spontaneous and cut-free, so have fun with it. Of course, you can always retake a few scenes that you feel aren't right, but once you get a hang of it, things become easier.
Editing is one of the most integral parts of creating a video podcast. This is where you’ll take all the footage you recorded and put it together into a cohesive finished product. When editing your video, be sure to:
The goal is to create a finished product that’s polished, professional, and engaging. One of the best things about editing is that you can easily do it with one of the many available software programs for beginners. Try out programs such as Combo, Adobe Premiere Rush, and iMovie.
Your thumbnail is what will show up on your video when someone searches for it online. As such, it needs to be eye-catching and clickable. The best thumbnails usually include:
With this combination, people will know what to expect and get excited to click and watch it.
The last step is to upload your video podcast to a hosting platform, such as YouTube, Vimeo, or Wistia. Once it’s uploaded, be sure to share it on all your social media channels and with your email list. You can also embed the video on your website or blog.
Recording a video podcast is a great way to take your audio podcast to the next level. By adding visuals, you can make your show more engaging and exciting for your audience. Plus, with video, you have the opportunity to reach a wider audience and grow your podcast even further. So what are you waiting for? Grab your camera and start recording.
RELATED ARTICLES
How to Edit Video Podcasts
How to Manage Your Podcasting Workflow
The Best Recording Software for Podcasters in 2022