Here are some how-to guides for recording your own audio, video and - if needed - your screen as well. These instruction will help you if you are PRE-recording a segment, and then sending that segment to the production team to "press play" on in the broadcast later, not for broadcasting live during a show.
Be sure to check out our Presenter Resources to learn about optimizing your audio, lighting and video. You can always upgrade with a Studio In A Box.
Below these tips, you will be able to choose your method to find step-by-step instructions on exactly what to do next.
A couple of quick tips before diving into the step-by-step instructions:
VIDEO
At a basic level, think about the framing and composition of your camera shot.
Keep your camera lens height equal to your eye level.
Too low: chin shot
Too high: small perspective
Look your audience "in the eye" to interact personally
Placement
Place your head in the upper two thirds of the screen
Don't cut off the top of your head. (You should have about 3 fingers of space above your head in the shot.)
The shot should include your head and shoulders.
If desired, learn more about advanced video-specific information here.
LIGHTING
Make sure that your face is brighter than your background. This can be accomplished by moving your camera position to ensure that a majority of the light is in front of your face. Consider taking advantage of natural light by setting your laptop in front of or next to a window or sitting where the light from a ceiling or floor lamp shines on you.
If desired, learn more about advanced lighting-specific information here.
AUDIO
Having headphones or ear buds is one of the most important thing you can do on a recording with 2-way communication, so your microphone isn't picking up the sound coming out of your speakers.
If desired, learn more about advanced audio-specific information here.
CHOOSE YOUR RECORDING METHOD:
There are two main categories of how to record yourself. Click the link of your choice: