The Haircut Principle: The Power of the Extreme
It's hard for the audience to notice the tiny, subtle changes in your video. If you want them to see it, push it to an extreme.
Tips & Tricks
Tips and Tricks for shooting better video from writer/director Steve Stockman, the author of "How to Shoot Video that Doesn't Suck"
Free Excerpt: How to Shoot Video That Doesn't Suck
The first 20 pages of How to Shoot Video that Doesn’t Suck include the complete quick-start guide: 12 tips to make your video better instantly.
The Secret to Compelling Video: Add Information
The secret to compelling video: Always add new information to intrigue the viewer. Short shots is one way—here's another.
Ten Things They Should Teach You About Video in High School but Probably Don’t.
Most students don't learn much about video in high school. But they should — it's a language you can't afford to speak badly.
Your new best friend, Specificity
Specificity is your new best friend. Why? Because any video can be improved by being more specific about what it is you’re shooting.
5 Questions to Focus on Your Video's Story
You can help intrigue us by focusing your video on some questions that, if answered, lead to story. Any kind of story helps us pay attention.
Cuts. Just Cuts.
Your new editing software does all kinds of cool transitions. Should you use them? (Hint: this article is called "Cuts. Just Cuts.")
Fix Up Quick Storyboards
Drawing storyboards gives you a good idea what a video will look like before you shoot it. Can't draw? There's another, even EASIER way.
Shot List: The Opera Spot (p. 77)
Shot list are exactly what they sounds like: a list of all the shots you might want in your video.
50 Ways to Shoot One Thing (p. 140)
Changing your filming angle changes the meaning of your video. Play with angles in your video, and everything will look more interesting.
Immerse Yourself in Better Video
One way to get better at video is to immerse yourself in great film and TV. Start by reading these awesome downloadable scripts.
A Demo Video that Works
You wouldn't think a demo video could get us excited about something as boring as the future of glass. This does—here are the lessons: