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Instructors Guide – Physical Demonstration

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A "talking-head" style video or a physical demonstration should be used when you need to physically appear in front of the camera to demonstrate your process. Additionally, some instructors choose to mix talking-head shots with their screencast presentation to create a more varied and engaging visual style. Learn more on how to make a Vlog video.

To set up and record a talking-head or a physical demonstration, you'll need a camera, tripod, microphone, editing software, and optional lighting tools. These tools range from simple, cheap solutions, to more expensive professional equipment.

Cameras

HD recording (720/1080p) is now available on most devices. We encourage instructors not to use Standard Definition so that you have clear, sharp video lessons. These devices are all great options for recording your course:

Webcam
iPhone or iPad
Point & Shoot Digital Camera
Camcorder
DSLR

Tripods

Audio

The options below are lavalier microphones that plug straight into your smartphone or camera and clip onto your clothing near your chest. If you are recording your entire course with your webcam, it is best to use a USB microphone (like the Snowball USB Microphone).

Good Microphone Options

Polsen OLM-10 Lavalier Microphone ($22.95)
Aspen Mics HQ-S Lavalier Microphone ($44.95)
Giant Squid Audio Lab Lavalier Microphone ($52.00)
Rode smartLav+ for iPhone and Smartphones ($79.00)

More Advanced Options*

iRig Preamplifier for iPhone and Android Devices ($37.07)NOTE: The iRig requires this cable to use with any camera other than an iPhone or Android device.
BeachTek DXA-2T Audio Adapter ($179.00)
Audio-Technica PRO70 ($129.00)
Audio-Technica AT899 ($269.00)

*In professional settings, a preamplifier is used in conjunction with XLR microphones in order to provide a more robust signal and better results.

Lighting

Great lighting can be achieved simply. Most likely your workspace already has enough light, and we think that natural lighting looks best.

If you don’t think your space will have enough light, we recommend these inexpensive lighting tools:

Reflector ($9.98) – A simple reflector can help you direct light from your source to where you need it.
Paper Lantern ($6.30) + Light Fixture ($9.95) + Daylight Bulb – This combination can be hung very easily and adds bright light without being too harsh or creating dark shadows. The paper lantern acts as a diffuser, which softens and spreads the light all over.

Editing

Most computers have built-in software that is very easy to use, like iMovie or Windows Movie Maker. Here are some other options for more advanced editing work:

ScreenFlow ($99.99)
Adobe Premiere ($19.99/mo)
Final Cut Pro X ($299.99)

Here are a few more best practices to keep in mind when recording your talking-head or physical demonstration videos:

Natural light is best. Keep your shots bright and balanced. Avoid shadows.
Use high-resolution 720p or HD (most modern smartphones and digital cameras can record in 720p) with a resolution of 1280x720 or an aspect ratio of 16:9.
We encourage instructors to keep a tighter frame. This means framing your shot above your waist and just above your head. Too much room above your head (headroom) can make your frame look empty. Keeping a tighter frame also allows for there to be fewer distractions in your background.