Home music video

If you're in a band, making your own music videos doesn’t have to cost a fortune and, with the proper equipment, can be done on your home computer. Here’s a listing of what you’ll need and tips on how to proceed.

What you’ll need

• A pre-recorded track of your song. If you don’t already have a single or CD of your music, produce it at a good professional or home studio. Excellent sound is essential. Recording the music live is not recommended unless you have a professional sound mixer on the scene.
• Video equipment. You’ll need a computer, camcorder, editing software and lights. Unless you have a specific situation that calls for live sound, you shouldn't need microphones (except for use as props). If you don’t have access to the video equipment, it can be rented.
• A CD player. If you’re lip-synching the song, you’ll need a good sound system on which to play the music at the shoot.
• A production team. You can take on the whole production by yourself, but it will be much easier if you have at least one camera person and/or lighting person. And it's always good to have a "gofer" at the shoot.
• A script. Draw storyboards for each shot. Spontaneous events can be great, but don’t just set up, shoot, and hope for the best. Know in advance what you want to happen in each scene.
• A location. If your script calls for it, scout in advance for a location or locations that will fit your needs. You may consider using a stage at a concert venue such as a local club. It may be appropriate to shoot some or all of the video outside. Or the best location may be your own living room!
• A set. If you're taping inside, a set may be needed. It can be built inexpensively, or you can simply use a backdrop and a few props. Be creative!

Producing the video

• Be aware that it can take a long time to shoot, assemble and edit the video so plan accordingly.
• During the shoot, let the camera roll even when there isn’t any action. Sometimes in-between-take footage catches a humorous, off-the-cuff moment that can greatly add to the finished video.
• After you have your footage, it’s time to edit your masterpiece. The editing can make or break your video. If a scene doesn't feel right it probably isn't. Take your time and use lots of patience. Experiment with different ideas.
• When editing, consider inserting still photos, special effects, sound effects, graphics and stock footage. Be aware that you must get permission to use copyrighted stock footage, but free or inexpensive footage is available on the web.
• Don’t overdo special effects, camera zooms, etc. Tastefully done, they’re great, but overkill isn’t pleasant to watch.

A few extra tips

• If it's your first music video, you might consider hiring a local videographer to assist with the shoot and the editing. It will add to your cost, but he or she will bring the video equipment and eliminate that expense. Also, experienced people are good to have around!
• If you have funny outtakes (and you probably will) do a blooper segment at the end of the video.
• Turn the music up loud at the shoot!
• Don’t be afraid to venture out of the mainstream. Do some off-the-wall stuff! Have fun with it!