Get ready for your closeup! We’re launching Video Greetings in your Snappy Dashboard on September 13th! To prepare for this awesome new feature, we’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks for you to make the best video greetings for your recipients!
- Let the light in!
Lighting is key to a great video, after all - you’re on camera! Natural light is best - but make sure it’s indirect light. We suggest facing a window with the blinds and curtains up. If you can’t get good natural light, a ring light is a perfect replacement. Plus, a ring light accentuates parts of the face in very complimentary ways!
- Quiet on the set!
It’s best to record in a quiet space with the door and windows shut. Also, take stock of the room itself and make sure there’s no echo and little to no outside noise (cars, sirens, etc.).
- A simple background is key
The focus is on you, anything else would be a distraction. Try filming in front of a wall with some visual interest.
- Keep it clean
Make sure you tidy up your environment if it’s going to be on camera. The last thing you want is a messy table, crooked picture frame, or clutter.
- Go steady
Use a tripod or steadicam (aka gimbal) so your video doesn’t shake. It’ll give it that extra-polished look!
- Slow down
We all get nervous in front of the camera. We prepare what we’re going to say ahead of time, then we blow through our rehearsed lines in 3 seconds. Take a deep breath, and slow down just a bit. It makes a world of difference!
- Amp up the energy!
Rehearse what you’re going to say and when you think it’s got enough energy - bump it up a few more notches. You may feel silly in the moment, but your energy will translate easily in the video and your audience will appreciate it even more. No one wants a video with the energy of Lurch from the Addams family, we want pizazz!
- Get creative
If you want to go the extra mile, try different cuts to make a story in your video. It doesn’t have to be long or drawn out. Check out the videos on TikTok for inspiration on quickly telling a story.
- Keep it simple
You can be creative and simple at the same time. It’s best to get your point across but make sure you have fun with it.
- Don’t be afraid to reshoot it
Steve Jobs from Apple had a saying: “If it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing it right.” If you’re not happy with that take, do it again. It won’t take much time - and if you get frustrated, just take a quick breather and come back to it. After all, you’re recording a video greeting for a gift, not gunning for best actor/actress – unless you’re Meryl Streep.
At Snappy, we’re so excited for this new feature to be launched and we can’t wait for you to start adding even more magic to your gift-giving experience! Keep your calendars marked for the launch day - September 13th!
