Filming techniques: (from Paul Savva-Andreou)

1. Use a tripod. Avoid shaky video and use for a stable shot or use two hands to hold your phone. For a Camera and Tripod, you can book the through the link in the Popular Requests box on this page under Borrow AV Equipment https://warwick.ac.uk/services/its/servicessupport/av
2. Film more footage. Always film more footage than you think you will need to ensure you have plenty for editing. Film the same dialogue in a wide angle and a close-up so you can edit between them. If you have two people film a wide and then individual close-ups as well.
3. Shot from different angles. You will be surprised to see the completely different effect from different angels.
4. Be careful of the light. Film where there is plenty of light. Avoid blank walls and dark rooms.
5. Capture good audio. If you are outside, be mindful of any background noise, such as the wind. Use an external mic rather than the build-in mic on your phone. You can borrow a mic from Paul.
6. Length of the script. Make sure your script is not too long. One side of A4, when written as dialogue, is usually around one minute of film time.
7. Plan ahead. When preparing to edit your video, ensure you have filmed everything you need. Create a log of what you have filmed and see if it matches with your script. If you do not have everything go back and film the bits you need (Make sure you are wearing the same clothes and the locations match)
8. Film editing. Once you have all your shots you will need to assemble them using video editing software. In the TRC we have 3 PCs with dedicated professional software if you wish to use it https://warwick.ac.uk/fac/arts/modernlanguages/intranet/trc/facilities/editsuite/ and One to One sessions can be booked with Paul if needed.
9. Be aware of copyright issue. Be sure to use Copyright free images and music. When using online images, you can use the Creative commons search tool. For free music, you can try Free Music Achieve.

Please note: If you are not a student of SMLC, you won’t be able to book a TRC PC online via the given web link (in No 8). In this case, please email Paul Savva-Andreou who will help you to book. Following is his email address. Paul is also happy to give one-to-one support.

techsupport.language@warwick.ac.uk

 

Suggestions for planning your video: (from Anushka Malhotra) 

1. Have the goal in mind - Remember, your objective is to encourage your audience to learn a new language. Ensure your story is build around convincing and luring them to learn the language you are learning.
2. Don't get lost in the name of creativity - Sometimes, simplicity is the key. Bear in mind the aim you're trying to accomplish. It's great to be creative, but don't lose out on your objective. Don't invest your energies trying to make your film look technically perfect. Ensure you deliver on your main goal.
3. Build a storyboard - Plan your content and story ahead of filming your video. Have a storyboard in place and plan each shot, location, script, dialogues, equipment, and backup before you hit the field.
4. Be open to improvisation - It's good to have a plan but be prepared to make changes in due course, in case the situation calls for it.
5. Talk to native speakers of the language you're learning- It's important you explore different perspectives and think outside the box. This often comes from having conversations with people around. Talk through ideas with people and get fresh perspectives.
6. Know your audience - Remember that your audience may know nothing about the language you're learning. Don't over cram your content with too much information. Try to hook your audience into consuming your video. Being humorous and relatable or adding elements of surprise can help you get your viewers on board.
7. Empathize with your audience - Think of yourself as a viewer and ask yourself, what is that would help you engage and interact with a video. But. don't limit yourself with what you would like to see. Think of ways your audience would like to engage with the video.
8. Showcase passion and belief - Don't fall back on making your audience believe in you. Your audience will not be convinced to do what you ask them to do if you are not sure of doing it yourself. Make them believe in the language you're learning. Show conviction in what you're doing to get the audience match up to your energies. Tell them why learning the language you're learning is a great thing to learn.

You can explore more resources on Video Competition Helpful Guides page.