How to Make an HD Video Studio For Under $200

We shoot virtually all of our videos with an HD Ultra Flip Video Camera. Only a few weeks ago did we upgrade to a more-expensive Canon HF S20 for about $1,000. But after using the camera for a while, it's really not worth paying the premium - unless of course you have to handle lighting transitions (as it has a bigger lens). So, I wrote an article today on how to put together a killer HD video studio in your office or home.

What equipment do I need to make internet video?

It's inexpensive to produce relatively high quality video for the web. The video and sound recording options are limitless - but remember, your videos will be compressed for the web; so there's no need to recorded in high quality.

You must keep your recording set up simple and quick - you will not have time when business picks up to ready a professional studio. Do not distract yourself with the quality of your video, only focus on a quality message. Your audience does not expect professional-level production, especially on YouTube.

Video Camera and Sound

With a $150 Flip Video camera, you can produce high quality HD footage with no effort at all. The comparable Kodak Zi8 has a microphone input, so if you'll be standing far away from the camera in your videos, this camera would be a better option (you can purchase a wired microphone for about $20). It's also important to own a tripod, so your shot stays steady and you can record yourself without an assistant (also about $20). You can buy all these on Amazon.com for under $200.

* Flip Video (and the comparable Kodak) cameras do not handle lighting transitions well. For example, if you were to walk into a home from the outside or pan over the windows in a house, the video would become very dark for a few seconds. This is due to the small size of the lens. If you plan on doing moving shots with drastic change in lighting conditions, there are countless sub-$500 cameras with a larger lens that will work just fine.

The key to great-looking video is rarely in the equipment - it's in the skill and experience of the camera person (lighting, angles, shots, etc). Research the fundamentals of shooting video, you'll be impressed with what you produce.

Video Editing Software

To edit your video - keep it very simple. Windows PC's and Apple computers come with free basic editing software. You'll only need software to stitch your individual shots together with a fade effect in-between. You can also add an into/outro with your contact information and royalty-free background music for added interest. Do not use any fancy editing techniques, these effects (while very cool), will distract from your message and you'll find yourself spending more time editing video than making sales or helping clients. Remember, keep it simple - and quick.

* AVS Video Editor and Pinnacle Studio 14 are inexpensive and feature-packed video editing programs. There's no need to purchase (or invest the time in learning for that matter) professional-grade software, such as Final Cut Pro. We use Pinnacle Studio 14 to edit our client's video.

The Bottom Line

Purchase a HD pocket camcorder for your video.
Upgrade to the Kodak Zi8 with microphone input if shooting at a distance.
Upgrade to a sub-$500 compact to handle indoor/outdoor transitions.
Do not use fancy effects in your video; use inexpensive software.
The key to great video is in the skill of camera person, not equipment.
Focus on GREAT content, rather than GREAT visual effects.