Great Videography Tips from Videomaker

Videomaker.com posted a few lists of helpful tips for those starting out shooting their own stuff. I'm happy to say I follow most of them. Below are a few of my favorites, with some commentary:

• [No] Headhunting--placing every subject in the center of your frame.


• [No] Backlighting--too much light falling on the background instead of on the subject.


• Use manual focus if your camcorder has it. [You really need a camcorder with manual focus, unless you're shooting a home movie.]


• Set white balance at every location. [Even if you're using presets.]


• Shoot to edit.


• Use an external microphone if you have one. [Period!]

Here's the link to the article.