Lights, Camera, DIY: Skillman Video Group Interns Unleash their Creativity

Our journey as Skillman Video Group (SVG) interns culminated in an exciting hands-on project: creating our own “how-to” video series on DIY video production.

This was our chance to showcase the skills we had honed throughout the internship and share our knowledge with aspiring videographers.

From Concept to Creation: Bringing Our Vision to Life

We meticulously planned every aspect of the project, from brainstorming and scripting to selecting the perfect shoot location. A cozy house was chosen to create an authentic DIY feel, aligning with our goal of demonstrating that professional-looking videos can be achieved with limited resources and in everyday settings.

Two Videos, Two Experts: Lighting and Audio Demystified

We divided our DIY expertise into two separate videos: Jonas delved into the world of lighting, while Kristen tackled the complexities of audio. This approach allowed us to provide comprehensive and focused guidance on each topic, ensuring that viewers could easily follow along and apply the techniques to their own projects.

Lighting: A DIY Masterclass

Our lighting tutorial began with setting up a classic three-point lighting system using readily available household items. We repurposed painter lights and drop lights as key and fill lights, respectively, effectively illuminating our subject and minimizing shadows. A simple drop light served as the backlight, adding depth and dimension to the scene. Two wall-mounted lamps provided additional ambient light.

Our DIY approach extended to diffusion, where we demonstrated how a plain white t-shirt could soften harsh light and create a more flattering look. We also explored techniques for controlling natural light, such as using blankets and trash bags to block out unwanted sunlight.

Audio: Capturing Crystal-Clear Sound

The audio tutorial focused on maximizing sound quality with a Zoom sound recorder. We demonstrated how to connect it to a DSLR camera, highlighting the versatility of this setup for capturing high-quality audio. We also explored the different types of sound recorders available and discussed the importance of choosing the right cables and connectors.

We emphasized the challenges of recording audio in a home setting, particularly ambient noise from passing cars, household appliances, and even pets. We provided practical tips for minimizing these distractions and achieving a clean and professional sound.

B-Roll: Showcasing the DIY Magic

To complement the interview segments, we captured extensive B-roll footage. The lighting B-roll demonstrated our setup process, showcasing the placement of lights, diffusion techniques, and strategies for controlling natural light. The audio B-roll focused on connecting the sound recorder to the camera and utilizing various accessories for optimal results.

Empowering DIY Filmmakers

Our “how-to” video series aims to empower aspiring filmmakers to create high-quality videos without breaking the bank. By demystifying lighting and audio techniques and demonstrating how to utilize everyday objects, we hope to inspire creativity and make video production accessible to everyone.